Movable Component Connector with Auto-Coupling Protective Doors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector systems for movable components in vehicles require manual disconnection, which is time-consuming and exposes connectors to dirt, debris, and moisture when not protected.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector system with automated disconnection and protection features, utilizing actuators and spring-biased doors to expose and enclose connectors, and a control system to manage the connection based on the state of a latch, ensuring seamless engagement and disengagement without human input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual disconnection of electrical connector is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming process
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector system automatically connects and disconnects without requiring manual intervention. The actuator moves the second electrical connector to engage with the first electrical connector when the movable component is coupled to the fixed component, and automatically disconnects when uncoupled, making the system self-serving and eliminating time-consuming manual operations.
2Ease of operation
If electrical connector is left disconnected, then ease of operation is improved by allowing movement, but reliability deteriorates due to exposure to dirt, debris, and moisture
Solution Approach 1:
The door is positioned to enclose the electrical connector before disconnection occurs. When the movable component moves away from the fixed component, the door proactively closes to protect the electrical connector from environmental contaminants such as dirt, debris, and moisture, preventing damage before it can occur.
3Productivity
If automated actuator system is added, then productivity is improved by enabling automatic connection, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is integrated with the existing latch mechanism. The same latch that couples the movable component to the fixed component also triggers the actuator to connect or disconnect the electrical connectors. This merging of functions reduces overall system complexity while maintaining automated productivity benefits.
4Reliability
If door enclosure is added, then reliability is improved by protecting connector, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The door serves multiple functions: it encloses the electrical connector when disconnected to protect from contaminants, and its movement is driven by the same latch mechanism that couples the movable component to the fixed component. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protective mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining reliability.
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 automatic and protected disconnection of electrical connectors, preventing damage and exposure to environmental factors, enhancing efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The second body includes a second spring housing that is configured to receive a second spring, and the second spring biases the second door into the first, closed position.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector system for electrically coupling a movable component to a fixed component includes a first connector including a first body and a first door. The first door is movable to expose a first electrical connector disposed within the first body. The electrical connector system includes a second connector including a second body and a second door. The second door is movable to expose a second electrical connector disposed within the second body. The electrical connector system includes an actuator coupled to the second electrical connector. The actuator is configured to move the second electrical connector to couple the second electrical connector to the first electrical connector.