Inductive Connector for Vehicle Panel Power and Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of modern vehicles is increased by the need for direct mechanical connections of electronic devices to power sources, which complicates installation and maintenance, especially in movable and removable panels like doors and roofs.
Innovation Solution
The use of inductive connectors that couple movable panels to vehicles, allowing electronic devices to receive power and data inductively, simplifying assembly and maintenance by eliminating the need for direct wired connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct mechanical connections (wires) are used to couple electronic devices to power sources, then reliable power transmission is achieved, but device complexity and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical wire connections with inductive coupling between coils. The connector includes a first coil that inductively couples to a second coil in the movable panel, transmitting power without physical wire contact. This substitution eliminates the need for complex wiring harnesses while maintaining reliable power transmission through electromagnetic induction.
2Reliability
If direct wired connections are used in movable panels, then stable power supply is ensured, but ease of installation and removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wire connections with inductive coupling, allowing the movable panel to be easily attached and detached without connecting or disconnecting wires. The inductive power transfer occurs automatically when the connector and panel are in proximity, simplifying installation and removal while maintaining stable power supply.
3Ease of manufacture
If inductive coupling is used to simplify connections, then ease of installation improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates alignment features directly into the connector structure that pre-position the coils relative to each other before the movable panel is fully attached. This preliminary alignment action ensures proper coil positioning without requiring high precision during the final installation step, making the process easier while still achieving the necessary alignment for effective inductive coupling.
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
This solution simplifies the installation and removal of movable panels by providing inductive power and data communication, reducing the complexity of wiring and enhancing the ease of panel reattachment without the need for precise mechanical alignment.
Implementation Method 1
a first coil adapted to inductively couple the electronic device to the power source and the data source
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a movable panel having an electronic device; a power source; a data source; and a connector configured to selectively couple the movable panel to the vehicle. The connector is configured to be electrically coupled to the power source and the data source, and is further configured to inductively couple the electronic device of the movable panel to the power source and the data source.