Nested Connector Assembly for High-Current Space Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of enhancing the conducting capacity of cable-end and board-end connectors within a limited space, as the increasing demand for large current transmission leads to increased cable quantity and weight, which is restricted by limited installation space.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly design featuring a first connector with a first bottom plate and side plates, and a second connector with a second bottom plate and side plates, where the second connector is partially accommodated in the space defined by the first connector, with conductive terminals that interlock and include engaging parts and a plug to secure the connection, reducing the overall size while enabling larger current transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the quantity and weight of cables are increased to transmit larger current, then the current transmission capacity is improved, but the installation space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second connector is partially accommodated within the accommodating space defined by the first connector's side plates and bottom plate. This nesting arrangement allows two connectors to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, effectively reducing the total installation space required while maintaining the current transmission capacity of both connectors
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the third dimension (depth) by allowing the second connector to extend into the accommodating space of the first connector. This vertical stacking approach transforms a two-dimensional lateral arrangement into a three-dimensional configuration, maximizing space utilization without compromising electrical performance
2Power
If the quantity of cables is increased to transmit larger current, then the current transmission capacity is improved, but the cable weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cables and their corresponding connectors are merged into a compact assembly where the second connector is accommodated within the space of the first connector. This consolidation reduces the overall weight compared to having separate, distributed cable assemblies, while maintaining the total current transmission capacity through multiple conductive terminals
3Power
If the connectors are designed to transmit larger current, then the current transmission capacity is improved, but the connector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second connector is designed to be partially accommodated within the accommodating space of the first connector, with the second side plates and bottom plate forming cavities that fit within the space defined by the first side plates and bottom plate. This nested configuration allows two substantial connectors to occupy reduced overall volume while maintaining their individual current transmission capacities through multiple conductive terminals
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a first connector and a second connector coupled to the first connector. The first connector includes a first bottom plate, first side plates, and a first conductive terminal. The first side plates and the first bottom plate jointly define an accommodating space. The first conductive terminal passes through the first bottom plate and extends in the accommodating space. The second connector includes a second bottom plate, second side plates, and a second conductive terminal. The second plates and the second bottom plate form at least one cavity. The second conductive terminal is located in the at least one cavity. The second conductive terminal includes a contacting portion and a connecting portion connected to the contacting portion. The contacting portion has a hollowed portion. The first conductive terminal enters the hollowed portion and is electrically connected to the second conductive terminal.