Latched Multi-Pin Socket Connector for High-Current Power Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power connector systems face limitations in current carrying capacity and reliable disconnection of power pins from sockets, necessitating a cost-effective and reliable socket connector solution.
Innovation Solution
A socket connector design featuring a housing with latching mechanisms and multiple power sockets, allowing for secure electrical connection and easy removal of power pins, with a substrate holding multiple power pins to enhance current carrying capacity and facilitate simultaneous mating and un-mating of conductors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional power pin is used in a power connector system, then the connection is reliable and serviceable, but the current carrying capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power connector is divided into multiple independent power pins (first power pin, second power pin, etc.) that can be individually connected or disconnected. This segmentation allows the system to achieve higher current carrying capacity by distributing current across multiple pins while maintaining the reliability benefits of individual pin connections.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple power pins are combined within a single socket connector housing, allowing them to function as a unified power distribution system. The housing integrates multiple pin sockets and latching mechanisms, merging the functions of multiple individual connectors into one coordinated unit that provides both high current capacity and reliable connection.
2Reliability
If a conventional power pin is used in a power connector system, then the connection is reliable, but the unmating (disconnection) process is problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism incorporates movable latch arms that can transition between engaged and disengaged states. The latch arms are designed to dynamically respond to actuation forces, allowing easy release of the power pins from the sockets while maintaining secure connection during normal operation. This dynamic design enables simple push-button or lever-style release mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch arm acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator's release action and the power pin connection. By introducing this intermediate latching element, the system allows indirect release of the power pins, making disconnection easier and more reliable compared to direct manual separation of the power pin from the socket.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple power sockets are integrated into a single housing, then the current carrying capacity is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed as a universal structure that can accommodate multiple power sockets with standardized configurations. The same housing design patterns, mounting methods, and latching mechanisms are reused across multiple socket positions, allowing the system to achieve high current capacity without proportionally increasing complexity. Each additional power socket adds capacity while using the same structural blueprint.
Data Source
AI summary
A socket connector includes a housing having a top, a bottom, a first side wall and a second side wall forming cavities that receive power sockets. The housing includes pin access openings through the bottom that receive power pins mated to the power sockets. Each power socket includes a cable socket receiving a power cable and a pin socket that receives the power pin. The power socket electrically connects the power cable and the power pin. The socket connector includes latches each having a latch release and a latch arm operably coupled to the latch release. The latch arm extends along the corresponding pin access opening and includes a latching surface aligned with the pin access opening configured to engage the power pin to retain the power pin in the housing. The release button is actuated to release the latch arm from the power pin and allow removal of the power pin from the housing.