Gimbaled Electrical Coupling for Angularly Misaligned Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-path connectors are difficult and expensive to manufacture, prone to wear, and do not accommodate angular misalignment between connected components, limiting their application in systems requiring flexible electrical connections.
Innovation Solution
A coupling apparatus featuring arcuate busbars and a gimbal mechanism that allows the second connector part to pivot about multiple axes relative to a mount, enabling electrical connection regardless of angular orientation between the first and second connector parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional multi-path connectors are used, then electrical connections can be established, but they are difficult and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate parts: a first connector part with arcuate busbars and a second connector part with sliding contacts. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured independently using simpler, more cost-effective processes while maintaining reliable electrical connections when assembled together.
Solution Approach 2:
The second connector part is made movable relative to the first connector part through a gimbal mechanism, allowing dynamic adjustment to accommodate misalignment. This dynamic capability ensures reliable connection establishment even when components are not perfectly positioned, reducing manufacturing precision requirements.
2Reliability
If conventional multi-path connectors are used, then electrical connections can be established, but they are prone to wear and tear
Solution Approach 1:
The gimbal mechanism allows the second connector part to pivot and adjust dynamically, accommodating misalignment and reducing mechanical stress on the electrical contacts. This dynamic adjustment prevents wear and tear by eliminating forced connections and reducing friction during connection/disconnection cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The arcuate busbars and sliding contacts are designed with flexible geometries that can deform elastically to accommodate misalignment and thermal expansion. This flexibility reduces mechanical stress and wear on the electrical contacts, extending the connector's service life.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multi-path connectors are used, then electrical connections can be established, but they do not accommodate angular misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The gimbal mechanism provides dynamic angular adjustment capability, allowing the second connector part to pivot relative to the first connector part. This enables the connector to accommodate various angular misalignments between components without requiring precise angular positioning during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design with arcuate busbars and sliding contacts creates a universal connection interface that can accommodate different angular orientations. The arcuate geometry and sliding contact mechanism allow the same connector design to work with components at various angles, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connector variants.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling apparatus having first and second connector parts. The first connector part includes first busbars held in a first housing, and the second connector part includes second busbars held in a second housing. The first and second busbars may be annular and are connected to electrical conductors, respectively. A gimbal helps connect the second connector part to a mount, which may be moved by a lift. The gimbal is operable to permit the second connector part to pivot about a plurality of axes relative to the mount. The first and second connector parts are configured to be coupled together to electrically connect the first busbars to the second busbars.