Magnetic Connector with Segmented Cover and Overhanging Magnet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic connectors face issues with stable connections and are prone to interference from debris, which affects electrical contact reliability.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic connector design featuring a flat engaging surface with flexible mating portions, an insulative housing with contact channels and fixing spaces for magnets, and a dual-magnet configuration to enhance magnetic attraction and structural stability, along with a cover to prevent debris interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnets are mounted on receiving spaces in existing magnetic connectors, then magnetic attraction is achieved, but connection stability is insufficient and debris interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional zones: a cover portion that seals the external environment, a body portion containing the magnets and electrical contacts, and separate contact channels. This segmentation isolates the electrical contacts from debris while maintaining magnetic attraction functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover acts as an intermediary barrier between the external environment and the internal electrical contacts. It prevents debris from reaching the contacts while allowing magnetic force to penetrate through to maintain connection stability.
2Reliability
If electrical contacts are disposed in contact channels without proper shielding, then electrical connection is achieved, but debris can interfere with contact reliability
Solution Approach 1:
Contact channels are segmented as separate enclosed pathways within the body portion. Each channel isolates its electrical contact from the external environment, allowing reliable electrical connection while preventing debris interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical contacts are nested within the contact channels, which are themselves nested within the body portion of the connector. This nested structure provides multiple layers of protection against debris while maintaining electrical functionality.
3Ease of operation
If magnets are positioned to provide magnetic attraction, then connector alignment is improved, but structural stability may be compromised without proper fixing
Solution Approach 1:
The magnets are merged with the body portion structure, forming an integrated assembly where the magnets, contact channels, and fixing features work together as a unified structure. This combining ensures both alignment capability and structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The body portion is pre-configured with contact channels and magnet positioning features during manufacturing. This preliminary structuring ensures that when the connector is assembled, the magnets are automatically positioned for optimal alignment 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
Ensures a stable and reliable electrical connection by maintaining contact through magnetic force and preventing debris interference, ensuring consistent performance.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnet assembled to the first fixing space along a direction parallel to the engaging surface, the first magnet overhanging over the electrical contacts
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic connector including: a flat engaging surface; a number of electrical contacts each having a flexible mating portion protruding to the engaging surface; an insulative housing comprising plural contact channels for receiving the electrical contacts and a first fixing space communicating with the contact channels; and a first magnet assembled to the first fixing space along a direction parallel to the flat engaging surface, the first magnet overhanging over the electrical contacts.