Pivotable Connector Receptacle for Electrosurgical Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional card edge connectors used in energy generator systems for ultrasonic and electrosurgical devices have a short lifespan due to the scraping of plated contacts during plug insertion, leading to premature wear and failure.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle connector design with pivotable biased portions that transition from an open to a closed configuration upon plug insertion, using biasing members and contact arms to engage the plug contacts securely, preventing scraping and extending the connector's lifetime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional card edge connector with plated contacts is used, then the connector can establish electrical connection with the plug, but the plated contacts are scraped and worn during insertion, resulting in short connector lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The connector portions are designed to be movable rather than fixed, transitioning from an open to a closed configuration upon plug insertion. This dynamic movement allows the connector to engage the plug contacts without scraping, as the portions close onto the substrate after insertion rather than scraping during insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing members pre-load the connector portions into an open configuration before plug insertion. This preliminary positioning ensures that the connector portions are ready to receive the plug without contact, and only close onto the contacts after the plug is fully inserted, preventing scraping during the insertion process.
2Reliability
If the connector portions are held in an open configuration using biasing members, then contact scraping is prevented, but the connector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple independent connector portions (first connector portion, second connector portion, etc.), each capable of moving independently. This segmentation allows each portion to be biased open and close independently upon plug insertion, simplifying the overall mechanism while preventing contact scraping.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing members automatically maintain the connector portions in an open configuration and enable them to close onto the plug contacts without external intervention. The connector self-regulates its state based on plug insertion, eliminating the need for complex control mechanisms.
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 design ensures a secure and long-lasting electrical connection by preventing contact scraping during insertion and withdrawal, significantly increasing the connector's lifespan and reliability in energy delivery systems.
Implementation Method 1
The connector includes a pair of biased connector portions that are held in an open configuration using corresponding biasing members (e.g., springs)
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical energy delivery system includes an energy delivery instrument with a plug having a substrate including one or more first plug contacts and one or more second plug contacts. The plug also includes an insertion portion. The system also includes an energy generator having a connector configured to couple to the plug. The connector includes a first portion having one or more first connector contacts and a second portion having one or more second connector contacts. Each of the first portion and the second portion is pivotable from a first position to a second position, in which the first portion and second portion are configured to engage the plug and the first connector contact(s) to electrically couple to the first plug contact(s) and the second connector contact(s) to electrically couple to the second plug contact(s).