Multi-Cable Pass-Through Connector for Compact Vehicle Wiring

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Solution Overview

Problem

In the automotive industry, there is a need for improved cable connections that can efficiently manage increasing numbers of cables in compact spaces, particularly in prototypes where cable configurations are frequently adapted, and existing connectors are not suitable for multiple cables or flexible use.

Innovation Solution

A single pass-through connector with a frame body fixed between areas, featuring multiple communication network connectors on each side to connect and pass-through cables, allowing for increased cable density and flexibility, with a compact design and interchangeable capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If multiple separate connectors are used for each cable, then each cable connection is reliable, but the space required increases and the number of cables that can be connected is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of cablesVSAvoidspace
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate connectors into a single integrated pass-through connector that can accommodate multiple cables simultaneously. The connector includes a housing with multiple connector receptacles arranged in rows, allowing several cables to be connected through a single mounting location rather than requiring separate connectors for each cable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pass-through connector is designed as a universal multi-functional device that can connect different types of cables (power cables, data cables, audio cables, video cables) through a single connector structure. The connector receptacles can accommodate various cable types and configurations, providing flexible adaptability for different connection needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If traditional connectors are used for cable connections, then the connection structure is simple, but the time required to connect and disconnect cables is excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection speedVSAvoidconnection time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is segmented into multiple independent connector receptacles that can accept and release cables individually. Each receptacle is designed to quickly secure the cable connector with minimal insertion force and time, allowing rapid connection and disconnection operations without affecting other cables in the same connector.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector receptacles are pre-configured with guiding structures and positioning features that automatically align cable connectors during insertion. This preliminary alignment action reduces the time and effort required by the operator to manually position and connect each cable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Quantity of substance

If the number of cables is increased for more applications, then more data can be transferred, but the environment becomes crowded and space is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of cablesVSAvoidcable management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector utilizes a two-dimensional array arrangement of connector receptacles in rows and columns, allowing multiple cables to be organized in a compact grid pattern rather than requiring linear sequential placement. This dimensional organization maximizes space utilization and simplifies cable management for high-density connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Adaptability or versatility

If a single connector is designed to accommodate multiple cable types, then flexibility is improved, but the connector design becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable type flexibilityVSAvoidconnector design complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each connector receptacle within the multi-receptacle connector is designed with specific local characteristics optimized for particular cable types or connection requirements. Different receptacles can have different sizes, shapes, or locking mechanisms tailored to their intended cable types, while the overall connector structure remains standardized and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP4235980A1Single pass-through connector
Publication Date: 2023.08.30 APTIV TECHNOLOGIES AG
  • EP4235980A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4235980A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4235980A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A single pass-through connector (100) for connecting first cables (1001c,) and second cables (2001c) disposed in respective first area (A1) and second area (A2) of a vehicle, the single pass-through connector (100) having a frame body (300) and a plurality of first communication network connectors (101) for receiving portions of the first cables (1001c) and of the second cables (2001c), each first communication network connector (101) has a back portion (101b) and a front portion (101f), and wherein each first communication network connector (101) is arranged for receiving the corresponding first cable (1001c) from the back portion (101b), and for receiving the corresponding second cable (2001c) from the front portion (101f), so as to connect the corresponding first cable (1001c) and the corresponding second cable (2001c) together and pass-through a separation between the two areas (A1, A2).