Plug-In Lighting Fan Connector for Secure Parallel Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parallel-connected lighting fans for computers have weak structural connections and are inconvenient to use, leading to potential disassembly issues and a shortened service life due to oxidation and wear-out of connectors.
Innovation Solution
A parallel-connected lighting fan design featuring an outer frame with slots and guide rails for secure electrical connections, a plug-in electrical connector with spring-pin electrodes for easy assembly and disassembly, and magnetic members for enhanced alignment and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If locking hooks are used to connect adjacent illumination fans, then the connection structure is simple, but the whole structure strength is weak
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated connector component. The connector integrates locking hooks, guide rails, and electrical contacts into one unified structure that simultaneously provides mechanical support, alignment guidance, and electrical connection, thereby strengthening the overall connection while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a composite structure combining different materials and functional elements - metal locking hooks for strength, plastic guide rails for alignment, and spring-loaded electrical contacts for reliable connectivity. This composite approach allows each component to contribute its optimal properties to the overall connection system.
2Device complexity
If only locking hooks are used for connection, then the connection mechanism is simple, but the connection is inconvenient to use and requires tools for assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates spring-loaded electrical contacts and movable locking elements that automatically engage and disengage. The spring mechanism provides automatic reset action, allowing the connector to be easily inserted and removed without requiring tools, while maintaining a secure connection during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rails and locking hooks are designed to automatically align and engage the connector with the fan housing during assembly. The self-aligning feature eliminates the need for precise manual positioning or specialized tools, making the connection process intuitive and tool-free for end users.
3Stability of the object's composition
If connectors are fixed on the body of the fan, then the connection is stable, but the connectors are easy to be oxidized and worn-out after being used for a period of time
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is segmented from the main fan body, allowing it to be independently replaced. The connector is designed as a separate modular component that can be swapped out without replacing the entire fan, extending the overall service life while maintaining stable electrical connections through the reusable connector design.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical contacts within the connector are designed with changeable parameters such as contact pressure (via spring mechanism) and contact material composition. These parameter optimizations reduce oxidation and wear by maintaining optimal contact force and using corrosion-resistant materials, thereby extending the connector's service life while ensuring stable connections.
4Device complexity
If the plate base and holder are not designed with acceptable parts for applying force, then the structure is simple, but the components can be disassembled only by screwdrivers or other tools
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates dimensional features such as protrusions and recesses, as well as flexible spring elements that provide mechanical advantage. These features create natural leverage points and grip areas that allow users to easily manipulate and disconnect the component using finger force, eliminating the need for external tools while maintaining structural integrity.
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 allows for quick and secure parallel connection of multiple lighting fans, reduces the risk of electrical disconnection, and extends the service life of the lighting fans by enabling replacement of only the plug-in electrical connector when wear-out occurs.
Implementation Method 1
one side of the outer frame of the lighting fan used for connection with another lighting fan is provided with a first magnetic member while another side of the outer frame opposite to the side of the outer frame with the first magnetic member is provided with a second magnetic member which is mated with the first magnetic member
Data Source
AI summary
A parallel-connected lighting fan which includes an outer frame, an electric motor and a fan blade arranged at a center of the outer frame, a plug-in electrical connector, and a light emitting member is provided. The outer frame is provided with a plurality of slots. When the two lighting fans of the same type are connected in parallel, the two slots of the two outer frames adjacent to each other form a linked slot. Both the plug-in electrical connector and the slot are provided with corresponding electrodes. The lighting fans of the same type can be connected in parallel conveniently, quickly, and reliably by the plug-in electrical connector being inserted into the linked slot in a plug-in direction, without coming off easily. The replaceable design of the plug-in electrical connector allows easy replacement and maintenance during loss or failure.