Magnetic Connector Structure for Easy Coupling and Safe Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connector structures for secondary batteries require strong force to couple or separate, leading to potential damage due to the required force and risk of explosion from combustible materials.

Innovation Solution

A connector structure incorporating magnets that facilitate easy coupling and separation by adjusting magnetic forces using rotating magnets, allowing for weaker manual operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a connector is designed to be easily coupled and separated, then ease of operation is improved, but connection strength may be insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of coupling and separationVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical coupling system with a magnetic field-based system. Magnets embedded in the connector housing generate magnetic attraction forces that automatically draw the battery pack and external device together during coupling, eliminating the need for strong manual pushing forces while maintaining reliable connection strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the adjustable parameter of magnetic field strength through the use of magnets with specific magnetic properties. By carefully selecting magnets with appropriate magnetic moments, the system achieves optimal balance between easy coupling (sufficient magnetic attraction) and secure connection (maintained magnetic holding force), resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and connection strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If strong force is applied to ensure secure connection, then connection strength is improved, but the connector is easily damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidconnector durability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes mechanical fastening forces with magnetic field forces. The magnetic attraction provides sufficient connection strength to secure the battery pack while avoiding the concentrated mechanical stresses that would damage the connector housing, terminals, or surrounding components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic field acts as a cushioning mechanism that distributes the connection force uniformly across the magnetic components rather than concentrating it at specific mechanical contact points. This prevents localized stress concentrations that could lead to connector damage while maintaining overall connection integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Ease of operation

If magnets are used to facilitate easy coupling, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of couplingVSAvoidconnector structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the magnetic coupling function directly into the connector housing structure. The magnets are embedded within the housing, combining the structural support function of the housing with the magnetic attraction function, thereby adding minimal complexity while achieving easy coupling operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Minimizes damage to connectors during coupling and separation operations by utilizing magnetic forces for easy attachment and detachment.

Implementation Method 1

the connector structure (e.g., the male connector) coupled to the female connector includes a magnet. In the coupling mode, the connector structure may be more easily coupled to the female connector by using the magnetic force of the internal magnet.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

In the separating mode, the connector structure uses the magnet of the removing tool to offset the magnetic force.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP4096028B1Connector structure including magnet
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD
  • EP4096028B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4096028B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4096028B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention provides a connector structure in which a male connector and a female connector are easily coupled to each other. The connector structure of the present invention includes a coupling part, a housing, and a first removing tool. The coupling part is coupled to the female connector in a coupling mode and separated from the female connector in a separating mode. The housing includes a first magnet on a first surface among surfaces surrounding the coupling part and is configured to attract the female connector by using magnetic force of the first magnet. The first removing tool is configured to rotate a second magnet in the separating mode so as to weaken the magnetic force.