Relay Connector for Electronic Component Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electronic endoscope systems face difficulties in efficiently and easily establishing electrical connections between imaging modules and other devices without the use of receptacles and plugs, particularly when using ultra-fine cables, which increases the time and effort required for soldering and complicates the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
An electronic component unit is designed with a rear substrate electrically connected to an imaging or sensor element via an electric cable, featuring a relay connector that includes a connector base member, a retaining member, and a relay conductor, allowing for direct electrical connection between the rear substrate and the relay conductor, eliminating the need for plugs and receptacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If soldering is performed to establish electrical connection between cable end and substrate, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but substantial time and effort are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the soldering process (thermal/mechanical system) with a mechanical pressing system. The relay connector uses a pressing member that applies mechanical force to press the cable end directly against the relay substrate, establishing electrical connection through physical contact without heat or solder material. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming soldering steps while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
2Volume of moving object
If ultra-fine cable is used, then space and flexibility are improved, but the degree of difficulty of soldering work increases and soldering time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces soldering with a mechanical pressing mechanism that is particularly suited for ultra-fine cables. The pressing member can apply precise, controlled force to the small-diameter cable end, ensuring reliable contact with the relay substrate without the complexity and time requirements of soldering ultra-fine conductors.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay connector structure includes built-in positioning and pressing features that automatically guide the ultra-fine cable end into the correct position and apply the necessary contact force. This self-aligning, self-pressing mechanism eliminates the need for skilled manual soldering operations, making the assembly process easier and more consistent.
3Adaptability or versatility
If receptacle and plug are used for electrical connection, then detachable connection is achieved, but device complexity and assembly steps are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of the cable end, connector housing, and electrical contact into a single integrated relay connector assembly. The cable end is directly pressed against the relay substrate through the pressing member, combining what would traditionally be separate plug and receptacle components into one unified structure that achieves both connection and detachment functionality with fewer parts.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic component unit includes: an electronic module in which a rear substrate is electrically connected via an electric cable to an electronic element; an external connection terminal that is electrically connected to an external circuit; a relay substrate including a terminal connection electrode to which the external connection terminal is electrically connected either directly or via a connection conductor; and a relay connector on the relay substrate. The electronic element is any one of: an imaging element; a laser element; and a sensor element.