Compact Pyrotechnic Interconnection Device Eliminates Cabling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pyrotechnic and explosive control systems require extensive cabling and large connection devices, leading to logistical challenges, errors, and increased costs due to their size and weight, necessitating more efficient and cost-effective electrical interconnection solutions.

Innovation Solution

A compact electrical interconnection device with a circuit board, input and output connectors, and fasteners that directly connects to a firing module without cabling, achieving a weight of less than 200 grams and dimensions of less than 100 mm in length, width, and height, providing a lightweight and efficient connection system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If conventional cabling and large connection devices are used, then electrical interconnection is achieved, but the system size and weight increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterconnection device weightVSAvoidcabling and connection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the circuit board, input connector, and output connector into a single integrated interconnection device. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate cabling and multiple discrete connection components, directly reducing overall system weight and complexity while maintaining full electrical interconnection functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The interconnection device is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously provides structural support, electrical connection interfaces (both input and output), and circuit board integration. This universal design replaces multiple specialized components (cables, connectors, mounting hardware) with a single device that performs all these functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If extensive cabling and large rails are used, then electrical communication is established, but handling and servicing become difficult and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandling and servicing easeVSAvoidnumber of cables and connectors
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the interconnection system into a compact, self-contained device with integrated components rather than a distributed system of multiple cables and connectors. This segmentation into a single manageable unit dramatically improves handling ease and reduces servicing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

By combining all connection elements (circuit board, input connector, output connector) into one integrated device, the patent eliminates the need to handle and service multiple separate components. This merging directly addresses the handling and servicing difficulties associated with extensive cabling systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Volume of moving object

If conventional connection devices are used, then electrical interconnection is achieved, but the system occupies excessive space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterconnection device volumeVSAvoidconnection system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested structure where the input connector and output connector are integrated onto the circuit board within a compact footprint. This nesting of components within the circuit board structure minimizes the overall volume of the interconnection device while maintaining all necessary connection functionalities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The integration of multiple connection components into a single compact device significantly reduces the volume occupied by the interconnection system compared to conventional distributed cabling and large rails, directly addressing the space occupation issue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10320135B2Miniature interconnection device for pyrotechnics displays
Publication Date: 2019.06.11 BARKER WALTER D
  • US10320135B2 patent drawing
  • US10320135B2 patent drawing
  • US10320135B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical interconnection device for coupling a firing module to a pyrotechnic electric match may generally comprise a circuit board comprising a first surface and a second surface, an input connector electrically connected to the first surface of the circuit board to couple the device to the firing module and at least one output connector electrically connected to the second surface of the circuit board to couple the device to the pyrotechnic match. The device may have a weight of less than about 200 grams, and a length of less than about 100 mm, a width of less than about 200 mm, and a height of less than about 100 mm. An electrical interconnection system for pyrotechnic displays comprising the electrical interconnection device is also described.