Inductive Spring System for Compact Connector Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors often require separate mechanical and electrical connections, which can be inefficient in terms of space and component layout, especially for small form factor devices, as they typically use different types of connectors for each function.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector system that incorporates electromagnetic coils functioning as both inductors and mechanical springs, providing both electrical and mechanical features, allowing for a single connector to achieve both functions through mutual inductance characteristics and a latch mechanism for retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If separate mechanical connectors and electrical connectors are used, then mechanical connection and electrical connection can be provided independently, but additional space is required and component layout becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical connection and electrical connection into a single connector assembly. The electrical connector housing integrates both the mechanical engagement features (latch mechanism, contact members) and electrical conduction paths, eliminating the need for separate mechanical and electrical connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical retention through the latch mechanism, electrical connection through contact members, and structural support through the integrated housing. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple different connectors are used for mechanical and electrical connections, then each connection type can be optimized independently, but component layout efficiency decreases especially in small form factor devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical and electrical connector functions into a single integrated assembly that maintains optimized features for both connection types while reducing overall device volume through consolidated component layout.
3Area of stationary object
If a single connector provides both mechanical and electrical connections, then space efficiency is improved, but the connector must perform multiple functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating mechanical engagement features (latch, contact members) and electrical conduction paths within a single housing, allowing it to perform both mechanical retention and electrical connection simultaneously.
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 enables efficient use of space by combining electrical and mechanical connections in a single connector, facilitating inductive power transfer and data communication while maintaining mechanical retention, suitable for small form factor devices.
Implementation Method 1
the second electromagnetic coil may provide both electrical and mechanical features, functioning as both an inductor and a spring
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector system for communication or power transfer between a two connectors in which the first of the two connectors may be inserted into a receptacle of a second connector in order to align a coil within the first connector with a coil within the second connector to promote inductive communication between the first and second connector. In many embodiments, at least one of the two coils may also be used as a spring, providing a mechanical force. The mechanical force may assist in joining or separating the connectors. For example, the spring coil may be used in conjunction with a push-push mechanism to retain the first connector within the second connector and to eject the first connector when the connectors should be separated.