Magnetic Trailer Electrical Connector for Harness-Safe Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle trailer wiring harnesses are susceptible to damage during storage and use due to improper handling and exposure, leading to corrosion and inefficiencies in securing and storing the electrical connectors.
Innovation Solution
A trailer electrical connector with an integrated magnet that securely attaches to a metal frame, featuring a housing with a tapering design and magnetic attachment for safe storage and easy engagement with vehicle connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the wiring harness is left on the ground or loosely stored, then accessibility and ease of operation are improved, but the wiring harness is susceptible to damage from corrosion, tangling, and impact
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet automatically attracts and holds the electrical connector to the trailer frame without requiring manual intervention for attachment or positioning, enabling the system to secure itself while remaining easily accessible when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening methods (clamps, ties, or manual securing) with a magnetic field-based attachment system, eliminating the need for complex mechanical storage mechanisms while providing reliable holding force
2Reliability
If the wiring harness is tightly wound or secured to the frame, then damage from external factors is reduced, but the harness may be damaged by excessive winding or tight securing
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is extracted from the coiled wiring harness and positioned separately on the trailer frame via magnetic attachment, allowing the harness itself to remain loose and free from winding stress while the connector is securely positioned
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the electrical connector from the main wiring harness bundle, allowing independent positioning and storage of the connector while the harness remains flexible and unwound
3Ease of operation
If the electrical connector is left exposed on the ground, then ease of connection is improved, but the connector is susceptible to corrosion from latent water and environmental exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector automatically attaches itself to the vertical trailer frame through magnetic attraction when disconnected from the vehicle, positioning itself in an elevated, protected location without requiring manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is positioned in a different spatial dimension (elevated on the vertical frame rather than on the ground), transitioning from a ground-level exposed position to an elevated protected position that reduces environmental exposure
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
Reduces damage to the wiring harness by preventing tangling and exposure, ensuring safe and efficient storage and connection of trailer lights, enhancing durability and usability.
Implementation Method 1
A trailer electrical connector with an integrated magnet that securely attaches to a metal frame
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer electrical connector includes a housing that has a front section, defining an electrical interface end of the housing, and a rear section, defining a cord engagement end of the housing and extending from the front section. The electrical interface end of the housing is smaller than the cord engagement end of the housing. The rear section includes a tapering portion. The housing also includes a receptacle formed in an external surface of the tapering portion of the rear section of the housing. The trailer electrical connector also includes a magnet, within and attached to the receptacle such that the magnet does not move relative to the housing, and includes a plurality of electrical connections located at the electrical interface end of the housing. The trailer electrical connector additionally includes a cord attached to the cord engagement end of the housing.