Compact Connector for Gas Container Display

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge is to electrically connect an electronic display screen to a circuit board in a pressurized gas container without using a bulky electrical connection ribbon, given the limited space available.

Innovation Solution

A compact electrical connecting connector with a connector body in the shape of an elongate bar, featuring multiple electrically conductive elements separated by insulating spacer zones, is used to connect the electronic display screen to the circuit board, eliminating the need for a ribbon and providing a reliable, space-efficient solution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an electrical connection ribbon is used to connect the electronic display screen to the circuit board, then the electrical connection is established, but the device becomes bulky and occupies excessive space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoiddevice volume
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the electrical connection function into a compact connector body that integrates multiple conductive elements and insulation structures within a single unified component. This eliminates the need for separate ribbon cables and reduces the overall volume of the electronic measurement device while maintaining reliable electrical connections between the display screen and circuit board.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector body employs a nested structure where multiple electrically conductive elements are arranged in parallel within the same housing space, with insulation elements positioned between them. This nested arrangement allows multiple electrical connections to be packed into a compact volume, significantly reducing the device size compared to traditional ribbon cable configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If a traditional ribbon cable is used for electrical connection, then the connection is established, but the connector becomes complex and difficult to manufacture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidconnector manufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connector body is segmented into distinct functional zones: conductive elements for electrical connection, insulation elements for electrical isolation, and structural support features. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standardized processes and then assembled, simplifying production compared to manufacturing complex ribbon cables with multiple integrated functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector body serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection, electrical insulation, mechanical support, and positioning for the display screen and circuit board. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall manufacturing process by consolidating multiple functions into a single manufacturable assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12078294B2Gas container equipped with an electronic measurement device
Publication Date: 2024.09.03 LAIR LIQUIDE SA POUR LETUDE & LEXPLOITATION DES PROCEDES GEORGES CLAUDE
  • US12078294B2 patent drawing
  • US12078294B2 patent drawing
  • US12078294B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a gas container having a gas distribution valve and an electronic measurement device arranged on the gas distribution valve. The electronic measurement device having an electronic display screen which is electrically connected, via an electrical connecting connector, to a circuit board having at least one microprocessor. The electrical connecting connector having a connector body in the shape of an elongate bar through which a plurality of electrically conductive elements passes extending between two opposite faces of the connector body. The electrically conductive elements are separated from one another by regions made of insulating material.