Memory Metal Cantilever Contact Support for Stable Normal Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cantilever beam connectors in electrical devices face degradation over time, leading to reduced normal force and reliability due to deformable beams, which affects the integrity and reliability of electrical connections, especially under temperature changes and repeated use.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating memory metal support beams that transition from one geometry to another with the application of a transition element, such as heat or a magnetic field, to reinforce the normal force by mechanically supporting the cantilever beams and maintaining contact integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If deformable beams are used to provide normal force to mating contacts, then the connector can function similarly to springs and apply gripping force, but the beams tend to degrade with age and reduce the life and reliability of the socket
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the support beam from conventional deformable metal to memory metal (shape memory alloy). This material parameter change enables the beam to maintain its shape and force characteristics over time, resisting degradation while still providing the necessary normal force to mating contacts. The memory metal's unique property of returning to its original shape after deformation allows it to maintain consistent mechanical properties throughout the connector's service life.
2Reliability
If memory metal support beams are used to maintain consistent normal force, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the additional support structure
Solution Approach 1:
The memory metal support beam performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the cantilever beam, maintains consistent normal force on mating contacts, and compensates for dimensional variations. By integrating these multiple functions into a single component, the patent avoids the need for separate support structures, force application mechanisms, and compensation devices, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If the socket structure is made compact to accommodate tightly stacked contacts, then space considerations are met, but the deformable beams have less space to deform and maintain force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from conventional deformable metal to memory metal, which fundamentally alters how force is generated and maintained. Instead of relying on beam deformation within limited space, the memory metal generates force through its phase transformation properties and shape recovery characteristics. This allows the compact socket structure to maintain adequate normal force on mating contacts despite the reduced space available for beam deformation.
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 use of memory metal support beams enhances the longevity and reliability of cantilever beam connectors by maintaining consistent normal force and reducing wear, thereby improving the stability and performance of electrical connections.
Implementation Method 1
An insulated memory metal support beam is positioned adjacent to the non-contact portion of cantilever beam, wherein the insulated memory metal support beam transitions from a first geometry to a second geometry with the application of a transition element
Implementation Method 2
The second geometry of the insulated memory support beam contacts the non-contact portion of the cantilever beam producing a force that supports the contact portion of the cantilever contacts
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector structure is provided including a cantilever contact with a memory metal support that provides for improved cantilever contact mating. In one embodiment, the electrical contact structure includes cantilever beam having a contact portion for engaging a pin structure and a non-contact portion that is mechanical support with the contact portion. An insulated memory metal support beam is positioned adjacent to the non-contact portion of cantilever beam, wherein the insulated memory metal support beam transitions from a first geometry to a second geometry with the application of a transition element. The first geometry of the insulated memory metal support beam provides that the insulating memory metal support beam does not engage the non-contact portion of the cantilever beams. The second geometry of the insulated memory support beam contacts the non-contact portion of the cantilever beam producing a force that supports the contact portion of the cantilever contacts.