Multi-Path Electrical Connector Assembly for High-Density Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for implantable medical devices face challenges in supporting high-density electrical connections due to manufacturing difficulties and limitations in accommodating advanced therapies requiring multiple electrodes or connection nodes, with current systems struggling to maintain reliable contact and facilitate easy detachment and reconnection.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring a housing with conductive springs and grooves of varying configurations, including canted coil springs, to create multiple electrical paths within a compact space, allowing for increased density and ease of assembly, while maintaining secure and reliable electrical communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional single-groove spring connectors are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but the number of electrical paths per connector is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple independent grooves (first groove, second groove, etc.) within a single connector body. Each groove can independently receive a spring and establish an electrical path, allowing one connector to provide multiple electrical paths simultaneously. This segmentation enables the connector to support high-density connections without requiring multiple separate connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-path connectors to multi-path connectors by utilizing spatial arrangement of multiple grooves in different dimensions. The grooves are positioned at different locations and orientations within the connector body, effectively using three-dimensional space to multiply the electrical path capacity without significantly increasing the connector's footprint.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple springs are placed in a single connector, then connection density increases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The grooves are pre-formed as integral features of the connector body during the connector manufacturing process, rather than being created separately or requiring complex assembly. This preliminary formation of multiple grooves with precise spacing and orientation ensures consistent positioning accuracy while simplifying the overall manufacturing process. The grooves are designed to receive springs in a predetermined configuration that facilitates assembly.
3Reliability
If traditional connectors are used, then detachment and reconnection is straightforward, but connection reliability may be compromised with high-density paths
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design allows the springs to automatically engage with corresponding contacts when the connector is inserted, and automatically disengage when removed. The multiple grooves with springs are configured to self-align and self-engage with mating components, providing reliable electrical contact without requiring complex alignment procedures or additional fastening operations. This self-service mechanism maintains ease of operation even with multiple electrical paths.
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 solution enables a higher number of electrical paths within a given space, simplifying manufacturing and supporting advanced medical therapies by enhancing connection density and reliability, while allowing for easy detachment and reconnection of medical devices.
Implementation Method 1
A first electrically conductive spring is located in a first groove... Said first electrically conductive housing, first electrically conductive spring, and said first electrical terminal define at least a portion of a first electrical path
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure include a connector, an array of connectors, a method for manufacturing the connectors, and a method for using the connectors. The connectors are capable of carrying electrical or electric signal and include geometries to operate in holding, latching, or locking applications. The connector can include a contact housing formed by a first electrically conductive housing, a second electrically conductive housing and a housing sealing component at least partially isolating said first and second electrically conductive housings from each other. A body, such as a pin, a rod, or an elongated member, is provided. A first electrically conductive spring is located in a first groove and a second electrically conductive spring is located in a second groove inside the contact housing. Wherein a first electrical path and a second electrical path are formed when the body is inserted into the contact housing. In other examples, more than two electrical paths can be provided.