Magnetic Connector Adapter Segmentation for Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices require precise alignment of parts to avoid short circuits and damage, especially in difficult-to-access spaces, and do not easily release under excessive stress.
Innovation Solution
A connection device using magnetic elements for alignment and centering, with a rough guide for initial positioning and magnetic forces for exact alignment, allowing connections to be made independently of direction and releasing under excessive force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If magnetic elements are used for connection, then holding force and easy disconnection are improved, but alignment precision and centering are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment function is segmented into two independent stages: rough alignment via mechanical guide elements (protrusions and recesses) and fine alignment via magnetic forces. This segmentation allows each stage to optimize for its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Mechanical guide elements (protrusions and recesses) serve as intermediary components that facilitate rough alignment before the magnetic elements take over for fine alignment. These intermediaries bridge the gap between coarse mechanical connection and fine magnetic positioning.
2Reliability
If precise alignment is required to avoid short circuits, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device performs self-alignment through the combined action of mechanical guides and magnetic forces. The user simply needs to bring the connectors close together, and the system automatically completes the precise alignment and connection without requiring user skill or attention to detail.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for manual precise mechanical alignment with a hybrid system where mechanical guides provide rough positioning and magnetic forces provide fine positioning. This substitution eliminates the need for users to manually achieve precise alignment.
3Manufacturing precision
If mechanical connection with small play is used, then alignment precision is improved, but ease of operation and accessibility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static mechanical fit to a dynamic two-stage process. The mechanical guides provide initial rough alignment with sufficient play for easy insertion, then the magnetic forces dynamically take over to achieve precise final positioning, combining ease of operation with alignment precision.
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
Ensures reliable connections without user alignment, preventing short circuits and damage, and allows easy disconnection under stress, suitable for various devices like headphones and laptops.
Implementation Method 1
the holding forces between two plug or adapter parts being generated via magnetic forces
Implementation Method 2
The exact positioning and centering with a fine guide is established in the second step by the magnetic attraction and alignment forces between the magnetic bodies
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for producing a connection between an electrical or electronic device (3) and at least one cable (13) or further electrical or electronic device that can be connected to the device, comprising a mechanic coarse guide and a precise guide driven by magnetic forces. An adapter comprises a first adapter part (1a) that comprises forward contacts (7, 9) and at least one magnet element (11) and that is integrated into the device or can be connected to connectors in the device. A second adapter part (1b), arranged on the at least one cable and provided with connecting contacts (16, 17) and comprising at least one further magnet element (15), can be connected to the forward contacts and to the at least one magnet element of the first adapter part. One of the two adapter parts is provided with at least one protrusion (22a) and the other adapter part with a ring-shaped recess or an annular groove (29a) for the coarse guide. The magnet element in the first adapter part has a polarity that is opposite to the magnet element in the second adapter part, with which the first adapter part is engaging. The forward contacts, the connecting contacts, and the magnet elements (11, 15) are arranged in relation with each other in such a way that the connection between the two adapter parts (1a, 1b) is independent of the rotational direction.