Modular Connector Pass-Through Power Disconnect Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular connectors lack the ability to plug and unplug power sources without disconnecting the entire system, require separate panel mounts, and fail to provide secure interlocking features for proper alignment, especially for both board-to-board and wire-to-board connections, while also not efficiently conserving space and transmitting multiple AC and DC power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A modular connector system with a receptacle and plug assembly that includes a pass-through feature for easy connection and disconnection of power supplies, allowing for the same connector to be used for both board-to-board and wire-to-board connections without a separate panel mount, featuring interlocking mechanisms for secure alignment and space conservation, and capable of transmitting AC and DC power supplies with specific voltage and current ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If modular connectors are designed to allow easy connection and disconnection of power sources, then the ease of operation is improved, but the connection reliability may deteriorate due to repeated plugging and unplugging
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic latch mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states. The latch member can be actuated to release the locking engagement, allowing the connector to be opened without requiring excessive force. This dynamic capability enables repeated connection and disconnection operations while maintaining connection reliability when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separable components (housing, latch member, locking engagement features) that can be independently designed and assembled. The latch member acts as a separate controllable element that mediates between the two housing halves, enabling easy opening while maintaining secure closed state.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connector design includes separate panel mounts for different connection types, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector housing is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate both wire-to-board and board-to-board connections through the same basic structure. The housing includes integrated mounting features and recesses that adapt to different application requirements without requiring separate panel mount designs, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Reliability
If the connector uses traditional locking mechanisms, then the connection security is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in opening
Solution Approach 1:
The latch member is designed to be actuated by the user through a simple motion that directly engages or disengages the locking feature. The connector's own structure provides the opening mechanism through the latch, eliminating the need for external tools or complex release procedures. This self-service design maintains secure locking while enabling easy opening by the end user.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the connector design accommodates multiple power supply transmissions, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates asymmetric polarizing features including a polarizing key on one housing and a corresponding polarizing keyway on the other housing. This asymmetric design ensures proper alignment of multiple power supply contacts during insertion, accommodating multiple power transmission paths while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through straightforward alignment features.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular connectors are provided that have a modular receptacle connector assembly matable with a modular plug connector assembly for connecting AC or DC power connectors and electrical signals including board-to-board and wire-to-board connection. Provided is a “pass through” modular component to facilitate connection and disconnection of only the power supply for service without disconnecting the entire system. The wire connector also may load to the main housing thus obviating the need for a panel mount. Also provided is a one-unit modular connector system with either a coplanar or a right-angle design. Furthermore, multiple AC and/or DC power supplies can be provided that utilize minimum board space.