Pulsed DC Connector Mating Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical means for detecting physical connection between connectors are unreliable due to wear and tear, prone to breakage, and slow for quick connect/disconnect operations, while constant bias voltage increases the risk of dendrite growth and corrosion.
Innovation Solution
A method using a host device to provide a voltage pulse at a connector contact, measuring the voltage during the pulse to determine if a connection is established, thereby avoiding the need for constant bias and reducing corrosion risks through pulsed voltage detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical means such as a latch are employed to detect physical mating of connectors, then connection detection can be achieved, but the mechanical means degrade over time due to wear and tear making them unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical detection means (latches, switches) with an electrical detection system that uses voltage pulses and measures electrical characteristics (capacitance, resistance, current) to determine connector mating status. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear and tear while maintaining reliable detection capability throughout the service life of the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic voltage pulses instead of continuous bias voltage to detect connector mating. The pulsed nature of the detection signal allows the system to periodically check connection status without maintaining constant electrical stress on the contacts, thereby extending the operational life of the electrical components while ensuring reliable detection.
2Reliability
If mechanical means are used for connector detection, then physical mating can be detected, but the mechanical approach is too slow for quick connect/disconnect operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces slow mechanical detection mechanisms with rapid electrical measurements. Voltage pulses can be applied and electrical characteristics measured in microseconds, enabling detection speed that matches or exceeds the mechanical connect/disconnect operation speed, thereby eliminating the speed bottleneck.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies voltage pulses and performs electrical measurements immediately upon connector insertion or removal. By conducting the detection action preliminarily and continuously, the system can detect mating status changes as they occur, providing real-time feedback without the delay inherent in mechanical detection systems.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a constant bias voltage is present on electrical contact, then electrical connection can be maintained, but the chances of dendrite growth and corrosion of the contacts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic voltage pulses instead of constant bias voltage for connection detection. The pulsed nature of the voltage application significantly reduces the cumulative electrical stress and electrochemical reactions on the contacts, thereby minimizing dendrite growth and corrosion while maintaining adequate connection stability during the pulse periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies voltage only when necessary for detection purposes rather than maintaining constant bias. By limiting voltage application to specific detection intervals and using minimal pulse widths, the system achieves sufficient connection stability for reliable detection while substantially reducing the harmful electrochemical effects that lead to contact degradation.
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
This approach enhances connection reliability by providing accurate detection without mechanical failures and minimizes dendrite growth and corrosion, ensuring stable and efficient communication between devices.
Implementation Method 1
A method using a host device to provide a voltage pulse at a connector contact, measuring the voltage during the pulse to determine if a connection is established
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for detecting mating and un-mating of a first connector with a second connector include providing a pulsed voltage signal at a contact of the second connector and measuring a rate of rise of voltage at the contact. If the measured voltage at the contact exceeds a threshold voltage during the time the pulsed voltage signal is applied, then it is concluded that the first connector is not present and not mated with the second connector. If the measured voltage is lower than or equal to the threshold voltage during the time of application of the voltage pulse, it is concluded that the first connector is present and mated with the second connector.