Reed Switch Activation for Non-Metallic Contactless Power Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contactless electrical connectors face issues with unwanted electromagnetic field generation during disconnection, alignment sensitivity for efficient power transfer, and data signal confidentiality, particularly in non-metallic and wireless applications.
Innovation Solution
A non-metallic contactless electrical power connector utilizing a reed switch that activates only when properly aligned with a magnetic field, enabling contactless power and data transfer, and deactivating to prevent unauthorized transmission when misaligned or disconnected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If contactless power transmission is implemented, then power can be transmitted without physical contact, but unwanted electromagnetic field generation occurs during disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The reed switch is positioned to detect the magnetic field of the load connector before power transmission begins. When the load connector approaches the coupling interface, its magnetic field activates the reed switch, which then enables the contactless power transmitter. This preliminary detection ensures the transmitter only operates when a load is properly connected, preventing unwanted electromagnetic field generation during disconnection.
2Reliability
If contactless power transmission is used, then waterproofing and corrosion resistance are improved, but precise alignment is necessary to optimize transfer efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling interface is designed with a recessed circular opening that receives the load connector. The recessed structure provides mechanical guidance and tolerance compensation, allowing the load connector to be properly aligned through simple insertion without requiring extremely precise manufacturing tolerances. The circular geometry naturally guides the connector into the correct rotational and positional orientation.
3Reliability
If non-metallic connector materials are used, then corrosion resistance and waterproofing are improved, but metallic detection methods become ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces metallic detection methods with magnetic field-based detection using a reed switch. The load connector incorporates a magnet, and the reed switch detects its magnetic field to confirm proper connection. This substitution allows non-metallic connector materials to be used while maintaining effective detection capabilities, as the reed switch responds to magnetic fields rather than electrical conductivity.
4Ease of operation
If contactless data signal transfer is implemented, then data exchange without physical contact is achieved, but data signal radiation may occur when disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The reed switch detects the magnetic field of the load connector before enabling the contactless power transmitter and data communication circuit. When the load connector is properly connected, the reed switch closes the circuit, enabling data transfer. When disconnected, the reed switch remains open, preventing the transmitter from operating and thus preventing unwanted data signal radiation.
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
Prevents unwanted electromagnetic field generation and ensures secure, efficient power and data transfer only when components are properly aligned, enhancing safety and confidentiality.
Implementation Method 1
A reed switch is disposed within the housing and is configured to enter an activated state when in proximity to a magnetic field generated by the non-metallic load connector
Implementation Method 2
a transmission side of a connector receives power from a power supply and contactlessly conveys at least some portion of that power to a receiving side of the connector, which is physically spaced apart from the transmission side
Data Source
AI summary
A supply-side non-metallic contactless electrical power connector includes a housing with a metal-free coupling interface for coupling to a non-metallic load connector. A power supply electrically connects to an external power supply. A contactless electrical power transmitter is disposed within the housing and adjacent to the coupling interface. A reed switch is disposed within the housing and enters an activated state when in proximity to a magnetic field generated by the load connector. The reed switch is in electrical communication with the power supply and the contactless electrical power transmitter such that when the reed switch is activated, the contactless electrical power transmitter is electrically connected to the power supply and is enabled to contactlessly transmit electrical power to the load connector, and when the reed switch is inactivated, the reed switch prevents electrical connection between the power supply and the contactless electrical power transmitter.