Magnetic Exoskeleton Cable Connector With Fluid Shut-Off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exoskeleton systems face challenges in providing a secure and easy-to-use connection for power and fluidic cables, which is crucial for reliable operation and user safety, as current solutions often require excessive force for disconnection and lack automatic shut-off mechanisms for fluidic valves.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a cable connector system using magnetic forces for easy connection and disconnection, with a spring-loaded valve for automatic fluid shut-off, and ergonomic designs for one-handed operation and safety features like breakaway mechanisms to prevent damage and injury.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical connectors are used for power and fluidic cables, then connection security is achieved, but disconnection requires excessive force and lacks ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with magnetic fields for connector retention. Magnets embedded in the connector housing provide secure holding force during normal operation, but allow easy separation when a release mechanism is activated, eliminating the need for excessive manual force to disconnect cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the property of magnetic force which can be easily modulated. By changing the magnetic field strength through the release mechanism (such as a button or slider that moves a magnetic plunger), the connector transitions from a strongly held connected state to an easily separated disconnected state, providing both security and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If connectors remain connected during disconnection, then connection security is maintained, but fluidic leakage and safety hazards occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates an automatic valve closure mechanism that activates before the connector is fully separated. When the release mechanism is triggered, the valve closes the fluid passage in advance, preventing fluidic leakage even if the connector remains partially connected during the disconnection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the connector with a fail-safe valve system that automatically shuts off fluid flow upon detection of disconnection initiation. This beforehand protective measure ensures that even if the connector housing remains physically connected, the fluidic pathway is sealed, preventing harmful leakage.
3Ease of operation
If connectors are designed for one-handed operation, then ease of operation is improved, but connection security and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a self-latching mechanism where the connector automatically secures itself upon engagement. The magnetic field and mechanical features work together to ensure that once connected, the junction maintains secure contact without requiring continuous manual pressure or complex locking procedures, enabling reliable one-handed operation.
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 solution provides a secure, easy-to-use, and safe connection for power and fluidic cables, allowing for effortless disconnection without excessive force and ensuring fluidic shut-off when disconnected, enhancing user safety and system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet providing a holding force to retain the coupling member in the engaged state
Implementation Method 2
a spring-loaded valve configured to automatically shut off a fluidic passage
Data Source
AI summary
An exoskeleton system including one or more unitary cables comprising at least a first unitary cable configured to extend from an exoskeleton device to a first actuator unit, the first unitary cable comprising: one or more power lines, one or more fluid lines, one or more communication lines, and a cable connector that includes a first connector side and a second connector side.