Magnetic Self-Retracting Electrical Connector Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional electrical connectors are mechanically complex, fragile, require specific orientation, lack electrical grounding, and are prone to electrical shorting or failure during connection/disconnection due to protruding conductive elements.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic, self-retracting, auto-aligning electrical connector system utilizing outer ring magnets and center conductors that magnetically couple to ensure alignment and electrical coupling, with magnetic fields causing a change in position to prevent misalignment and provide electrical grounding, while mechanical stops and insulators manage the range of motion to prevent shorting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional power connectors with protruding conductive elements are used, then electrical connection can be established, but damage can occur during insertion or when pulled apart by non-axial force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical insertion system with a magnetic field-based coupling system. Magnets embedded in both connectors create magnetic attraction that guides and secures the connection without requiring physical protruding elements, thereby eliminating damage during insertion and non-axial pulling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the two connectors. The magnetic field acts as a mediator that enables electrical connection while protecting the conductive elements from direct mechanical contact and damage during connection and disconnection processes.
2Ease of operation
If conventional power connectors require specific orientation for insertion, then proper electrical connection can be achieved, but the device complexity and ease of operation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment guides with magnetic field interaction. The magnetic attraction force automatically guides the connectors into proper alignment regardless of initial orientation, eliminating the need for complex mechanical alignment features and reducing user effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the directional nature of magnetic fields to enable automatic alignment. By configuring magnets with specific polarities, the system creates a magnetic field gradient that naturally guides connectors into the correct orientation, transforming the alignment problem from a mechanical constraint to a magnetic field interaction.
3Reliability
If conventional connectors lack electrical grounding, then the structure remains simple, but electrical safety and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the grounding function with the magnetic coupling structure. The same magnetic assembly that provides connection force also establishes the electrical ground path, eliminating the need for separate grounding components and maintaining structural simplicity while enhancing safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic connector assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides magnetic attraction for connection, establishes electrical contact for power transmission, and creates an electrical ground path for safety. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite adding grounding capability.
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 system enhances connector reliability by ensuring proper alignment, reducing the risk of electrical failure, and allowing safe and efficient power transmission through small spaces without causing damage or electrical shorts, even in non-axial force applications.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic coupling of the first magnet and the second magnet causes a change in a magnetic field of a magnetically coupled combination of the first magnet and the second magnet
Implementation Method 2
the change in the magnetic field of the magnetically coupled combination of the first magnet and the second magnet causes electrical coupling of the first conductor and the second conductor
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus, a system, and a method of manufacturer for a magnetic, self-retracting, auto-aligning electrical connector. The apparatus includes a first conductor and a first magnet configured to magnetically couple with a second magnet, wherein magnetic coupling causes a change in a magnetic field of a magnetically coupled combination of the first magnet and the second magnet and wherein the change in the magnetic field causes electrical coupling of the first conductor and a second conductor. The system includes a first connector comprising a first magnet and a first conductor and a second connector comprising a second magnet and a second conductor, wherein magnetic coupling causes a change in a magnetic field of a magnetically coupled combination of the first magnet and the second magnet and wherein the change in the magnetic field causes electrical coupling of the first conductor and the second conductor.