Self-Aligning IMU Connector Assembly for Shock-Isolated Packaging

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for attaching an inertial management unit (IMU) package connector to an IMU package are labor-intensive and costly, and can fail due to environmental factors, leading to reduced reliability and increased susceptibility to vibration and shock.

Innovation Solution

A package design featuring a payload package electrical connector with beveled sidewalls that self-align and enclose the IMU, using a friction fit with internal electrical contacts to facilitate a durable, compact, and cost-effective electrical connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If adhesive is used to attach the IMU package connector to the package, then labor costs are reduced, but the attachment may fail due to environmental factors such as thermal expansion, salt, or acid

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabor costVSAvoidattachment reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the chemical bonding mechanism (adhesive) with a mechanical interference fit system. The connector features a beveled outer surface that mates with a corresponding beveled inner surface in the package, creating a mechanical lock that is resistant to environmental factors while requiring minimal assembly labor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If screws are used to attach the IMU package connector to the package, then attachment reliability is improved, but the package size must be larger to facilitate screw insertion

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidpackage volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the alignment and attachment functions into a single integrated feature. The beveled surfaces serve both to guide the connector into proper alignment and to create the mechanical lock, eliminating the need for separate screw holes and fasteners, thus reducing package volume while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If solder or welding is used to attach the IMU package connector to the PCB, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but force is imparted onto the PCB during connector insertion or removal, reducing connection reliability and increasing susceptibility to vibration and shock

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidvibration and shock susceptibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent separates the mechanical attachment function from the electrical connection function. The beveled surfaces provide mechanical support and alignment, while the electrical contacts maintain electrical connection without mechanical stress. This segmentation allows the electrical connection to remain reliable while being isolated from the harmful forces of vibration and shock.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Stability of the object's composition

If a direct mechanical connection is created between the IMU package connector and the PCB, then structural stability is improved, but the IMU becomes more susceptible to vibration and shock

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidvibration and shock susceptibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces the beveled surface interface as an intermediary between the connector and the package structure. This intermediary provides structural stability through precise geometric mating while allowing relative movement that isolates the IMU from vibration and shock forces, acting as a mechanical buffer zone.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The design provides a durable, compact, and cost-effective electrical connection that isolates the IMU from shock and vibration, enhancing reliability and reducing labor costs.

Implementation Method 1

using a friction fit with internal electrical contacts to facilitate a durable, compact, and cost-effective electrical connection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction fit: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20250337205A1Durable, compact, cost effective, and self-aligning electrical connector

Publication Date: 2025.10.30 HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

A package of a payload (or payload package) includes a payload package electrical connector, a first package portion, and a second package portion. The first and second package portions form a body of the payload package. The payload package electrical connector, e.g., a body thereof, and one of the first and second package portions each have at least one beveled sidewall which are configured to abut one another. Optionally, a payload, e.g., an inertial measurement unit, is further configured to be mounted in the payload package, e.g., in the payload package body, for example on one of the first or second package portions. The design of such payload package results in a payload package which is durable, compact, cost effective, and which facilitates self alignment of a payload package electrical connector to the body of the payload package. Further the payload is better isolated from shock and vibration.