Folded PCB Connector Insert for Reliable Medical Plug Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connection technologies for medical instruments and other apparatuses lack reliability in power transmission and signal transmission, particularly in terms of ease of production and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A connector arrangement featuring a connector housing with a folded two-dimensional insulating material, such as a circuit board, that includes bending locations for flexible configuration, supporting electrical conductors and contact elements, and integrated electronic components for enhanced functionality and safety features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional connectors with movable components are used, then flexibility is achieved, but reliability of electrical connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector insert is divided into multiple rigid sections that are joined through precise mechanical interlocking. Each section maintains rigid structural integrity while the overall assembly achieves flexibility through the segmented design, resolving the contradiction between rigidity for reliability and segmentation for adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a two-dimensional planar circuit board to a three-dimensional folded structure. This dimensional transformation allows the rigid circuit board material to achieve spatial flexibility and adaptability while maintaining reliable electrical connections through controlled folding geometries.
2Manufacturing precision
If rigid circuit board material is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to different configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid circuit board is designed with predetermined folding lines that enable dynamic reconfiguration. The board transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamically adaptable form that can assume different three-dimensional configurations while maintaining manufacturing precision through controlled folding mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The planar circuit board material is transformed into a three-dimensional folded structure, enabling the rigid material to achieve spatial adaptability. This dimensional change allows the same precision-manufactured board to conform to different connector configurations without compromising manufacturing quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If folded connector insert is used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board, mechanical support structure, and electrical connection elements are merged into a single integrated folded connector insert. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and assembly steps, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the adaptability benefits of the folded design.
Solution Approach 2:
The folded connector insert serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support, enables electrical connections, and achieves spatial adaptability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while enhancing adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
Connector arrangements having a connector housing and a connector insert arranged therein, which is preferably produced from a multilayer circuit board. The connector insert includes contact elements arranged opposite one another, which are supported by the circuit board material respectively. Mechanical forces acting on the contact elements during insertion of a plug contact are transmitted onto the housing parts and supported by them. The connector arrangements can be provided in a very simple manner and provide additional functions apart from their original function of the electrical connection of a medical instrument with a supplying apparatus, such as protective functions or control functions, for example for correct insertion of plugs or an information technology communication with the latter via contacts or NFC chips or the like.