Offset Plug Connector Radial Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic packaging technologies require the removal of mechanical components to disconnect plugs, which can be inconvenient and disrupt the operation of the board.

Innovation Solution

The use of offset connectors that allow plugs to be removed without disturbing associated mechanical components by positioning the plug connection area radially outside the mechanical component's width, thereby avoiding obstructions and allowing for plug removal without disassembling the mechanical component.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If plugs are positioned within the mechanical component's width, then electrical connection is achieved, but plug removal requires mechanical component disassembly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplug removalVSAvoiddisconnection process

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector extends the plug connection area radially outside the mechanical component's width by utilizing the lateral dimension. This dimensional extension allows plugs to be positioned outside the mechanical component's footprint, enabling plug removal without mechanical disassembly while maintaining electrical connection functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is divided into distinct functional zones: the board connection area with connector tails for electrical connection, and the radially extended plug connection area for mechanical plug interface. This segmentation allows independent access to plugs without disturbing the mechanical component attached to the board.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If connector tails are positioned within the board connection area, then electrical connection to board is achieved, but plug access is obstructed by mechanical component

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplug accessVSAvoidelectrical connection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The solution utilizes radial extension from the board connection area to create the plug connection area outside the mechanical component's width. This dimensional relocation separates plug access paths from mechanical component boundaries, allowing unobstructed plug insertion and removal while keeping connector tails securely positioned within the board connection area for reliable electrical connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS10944191B1Offset ;lug connector on a board connection area

Publication Date: 2021.03.09 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION

AI summary

An electric packaging including a board and a mechanical component attached to the board. The mechanical component includes a first end attached to the board, a second end opposite the first end, and a seat interposed between the first end and the second end. The mechanical component also includes an upper portion extending from the second end to the seat, the upper portion having a first width and a lower portion extending from the seat to the first end. The lower portion having a second width that is less than the first width. The electric packaging also includes a connector attached to the board. The connector includes a first surface attached to the board and a second surface located opposite the first surface. The second surface includes a plug connection area sized to receive a plug and located completely radially outside of the first width.