Power Feed Connector with Speed Reduction Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power-feeding connectors for electric vehicles require significant force for connection and lack intuitive operation due to unclear lever operation and alignment challenges, leading to difficulty in successful connection.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an insertion detecting mechanism with a pin, elastic member, and electromagnetic solenoid for unlocking the case-locking mechanism, along with a speed reduction mechanism that allows the connector body to move less than the holding member, facilitating easier connection with reduced force and improved alignment recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a lever mechanism is used to support junction between connectors, then connection is achieved, but it becomes difficult for users to recognize when to operate the lever and how to operate it intuitively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes to provide visual feedback during connection. The connection state is indicated by color changes of the connector components, allowing users to intuitively recognize connection status without complex lever operations or ambiguous mechanical indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical lever operation system with a more intuitive mechanism. Instead of requiring users to manually operate a lever to achieve junction, the system uses automatic or simplified mechanical engagement with visual indicators, substituting complex mechanical control with easier-to-understand visual feedback.
2Ease of operation
If connectors are connected without proper alignment, then connection attempt is made, but the connectors fail to be successfully connected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary alignment actions before final connection. The connector design includes preliminary engagement features that guide proper alignment before the actual connection occurs, ensuring that connectors are properly positioned prior to junction, thereby preventing connection failures due to misalignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary alignment features that act as mediators between the two connectors. These intermediary elements facilitate proper alignment by providing guide surfaces, positioning features, or transitional mechanisms that ensure connectors are correctly oriented before final connection, making the alignment process more tolerant of manufacturing variations.
3Device complexity
If a handle is not formed on the extended line of the central axis, then connector structure is simplified, but the connection force creates unwanted moments that complicate operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the moment issue by carefully considering the asymmetric placement of the handle relative to the central axis. The handle position is optimized to minimize unwanted moments while maintaining structural simplicity, creating an asymmetric design that balances structural efficiency with operational ease.
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 power-feeding connector that can be easily operated with minimal force and intuitively connected, ensuring accurate alignment and reduced resistance during the connection process.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member that urges the pin in an inserting direction of the case
Implementation Method 2
a switch that detects the pin resists the elastic member and is pushed, and the case-locking mechanism is a stopper member that locks the case and the holding member and is actuated by electromagnetic solenoid
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
AI summary
A case (9) is a cylinder-shaped member and accommodates a connector body (11) in a front end portion thereof. The connector body (11) can slide back and forth with respect to the case (9). The case (9) is provided with a slider (25) in the inside thereof. One of the end portions of the slider (25) projects forward from the case (9). The slider (25) can slide in an axial direction. A stopper member (27) is provided near a front end of a connector bar (16), at the back of the slider (25). The stopper member (27) touches the slider (25) and can move in response to movement of the slider (25). The stopper member (27) locks the case (9) and the holding member (3). That is, the stopper member (27) functions as a case-locking mechanism for preventing the case (9) from moving with respect to a holding member (3).