Magnetic Alignment for Neural Connector Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neural monitoring devices require precise visual alignment of electrical connectors, which can lead to user error, damage to the implant, and trauma to the animal, especially during connection and disconnection processes.
Innovation Solution
A magnetically aligned electrical connector assembly that uses permanent magnets to precisely align and connect the plug and socket sections of a subminiature dual-row connector, eliminating the need for visual alignment and reducing the mechanical force required for connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If precise visual alignment is required for connector connection, then connection accuracy is improved, but user error and trauma to the animal increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual alignment mechanism with a magnetic alignment system. Magnets embedded in the connector housing automatically align the plug and socket sections through magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for manual visual alignment and reducing user error and trauma to the animal.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector performs self-alignment through magnetic forces between corresponding magnets in the plug and socket sections. The system automatically positions the connectors correctly without requiring external visual guidance or manual adjustment, improving both accuracy and safety.
2Reliability
If mechanical interlock is used to lock connector halves together, then connection reliability is improved, but force required for disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection mechanism from mechanical interlocking to magnetic attraction. By adjusting the strength and configuration of the magnets, the system achieves reliable connection while allowing easy disconnection through simple separation, eliminating the high forces associated with mechanical locks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical interlock system with a magnetic field-based retention system. Magnets provide sufficient holding force for reliable connection during use, but allow effortless separation when needed, reducing both the force required for disconnection and the risk of injury.
3Volume of moving object
If subminiature high-density connector is used, then space efficiency is improved, but alignment difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual alignment with automatic magnetic alignment. The magnetic fields extend beyond the small connector housing, providing alignment guidance that is easier to detect and follow than visual cues, thereby improving ease of operation despite the reduced size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field interaction as an additional dimension for alignment. Instead of relying solely on visual precision in the horizontal plane, the system uses magnetic attraction that can be felt and followed, adding a tactile dimension to the alignment process that compensates for the small size.
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 magnetic alignment reduces the risk of connector damage, minimizes trauma to the animal, and allows less skilled workers to connect the components, while also positioning the electronic circuitry closer to the animal's head, reducing the potential for damage and improving the efficiency of the connection process.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic force provides precise alignment of the pins when the user brings the two halves of the connector into approximately alignment
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly comprising an electrode interface board with a socket portion of a subminiature dual-row electrical connector attached to the top surface of a first printed circuit board and a first plurality of magnets attached to the bottom surface. The socket portion comprises a plastic housing and a plurality of female contacts with protruding contact points. The connector assembly further comprises a head stage with a top socket, connector and a second printed circuit board. A plug portion of the electrical connector is attached to the bottom surface of the second printed circuit board and a second plurality of magnets is attached to the bottom surface. The plug portion comprises a plastic housing and a plurality of male contacts with detents. The male contacts mate with the female contacts so that the protruding contact point of each female contact touches an inside distal surface of a male contact.