Magnetic Panel Mount Connector for Contour Preservation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors often disrupt the smooth configuration of electrical devices when mounted, as they lack a compliant and easy-to-attach panel mounting mechanism that maintains the device's contour.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector assembly featuring a panel mount connector with insulative housing, magnetic elements, and latching devices, allowing for secure attachment to an electrical device without compromising its contour, utilizing a complementary connector for mating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If electrical connector is mounted directly upon the electrical device, then electrical connection is achieved, but the smooth configuration of the device contour is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate functional modules: the electrical connector portion and the panel mounting piece portion. This segmentation allows the mounting piece to provide a flush, contour-friendly installation surface while the connector performs its electrical function, resolving the conflict between ease of attachment and contour smoothness.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel mounting piece acts as an intermediary element between the electrical connector and the device surface. It provides a mounting interface that attaches to the device while presenting a smooth, flush surface, thereby mediating between the need for secure attachment and the requirement for contour smoothness.
2Reliability
If traditional mounting methods are used, then electrical connection is established, but attachment process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The panel mounting piece incorporates magnetic elements that replace traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, adhesives). The magnetic attraction provides secure attachment while eliminating the time-consuming steps of drilling, fastening, or bonding, thereby achieving both reliability and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic mounting mechanism enables self-aligning and self-securing attachment. The magnetic elements automatically attract and hold the mounting piece to the device surface, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or additional fastening operations, thus reducing attachment time while maintaining secure connection.
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
Enables easy and compliant attachment of electrical connectors to devices, ensuring smooth configuration and secure power transfer while preventing damage to the device's contour.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic elements retained in the insulative housing
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly includes a panel mount connector having an electrical connector having an insulative housing, a plurality of contacts and magnetic elements retained in the insulative housing, and a panel mounting piece which the insulative housing is attached to and has latching devices for attaching to an electrical device. A complementary connector is adapted to be mated with the panel mount connector.