OBD Module Z-Pin Notch Assembly for Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing OBD vehicle diagnostic interface modules are cumbersome due to the longitudinal arrangement of printed circuit boards, leading to increased volume and vulnerability to damage, as well as complex and costly manual soldering processes for electrical coupling.
Innovation Solution
The module features Z-shaped pins and a printed circuit board arrangement where the first segments of the pins are housed in notches on the board's perimeter edge, allowing for a reduced axial size and automated soldering, enabling self-centering and reduced manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the printed circuit boards are arranged longitudinally inside the casing, then the electrical coupling between pins and boards is achieved, but the overall volume of the module increases and the module becomes vulnerable to damage from collision and vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a longitudinal arrangement of printed circuit boards along the axis A to a transverse arrangement where boards are positioned perpendicular to the axis. This dimensional change reduces the axial length of the module while improving structural stability against vibration and collision forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the pins directly into the socket structure with a transverse arrangement, merging the connector and circuit board functions into a more compact configuration. This reduces the overall volume while maintaining electrical coupling functionality.
2Ease of manufacture
If the pins are arranged coplanar to planes parallel to the axis A, then the electrical coupling is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and costly requiring manual soldering
Solution Approach 1:
The transverse arrangement of pins and circuit boards creates a self-aligning configuration that facilitates automated assembly. The geometric relationship between components enables self-centering during assembly, eliminating the need for complex manual positioning and soldering operations.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the arrangement from coplanar (parallel to axis A) to transverse (perpendicular to axis A), the patent creates a configuration that is more suitable for automated manufacturing processes, reducing both complexity and cost.
Data Source
AI summary
Vehicle diagnostic interface module comprising: a printed circuit board, an OBD connector, which is provided with a plate-like contact-carrier socket arranged parallel to and facing the printed circuit board, a plurality of rigid pins, each of them having a first segment projecting from the inner face of the socket along an axis orthogonal to the printed circuit board and inserted in a notch formed on the outer perimeter edge of the board.