Right-Angle Structural Connector for Compact Chassis Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of electronic components into smaller three-dimensional spaces is hindered by the volume consumption and assembly challenges of traditional electrical connections, such as cables and rigid-flex circuit boards, which complicate system assembly and increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A structural connector system that includes an electrically insulating matrix with conducting paths and mechanical/electrical couplers to directly couple electronic and chassis components, reducing the need for external connections and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional cables and connectors are used to electrically connect electronic components, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but system volume increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical structural support and electrical connectivity functions into a single integrated connector assembly. The connector includes both mechanical coupling elements (screws, clamps, or bayonet-style mechanical couplers) and electrical coupling elements (conductive contacts, signal paths, and grounding paths) that work together as one unified component, eliminating the need for separate cables and connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support and mounting, establishes electrical signal connections, creates grounding paths, and enables modular assembly/disassembly. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components including structural mounts, signal cables, power cables, and grounding wires.
2Ease of manufacture
If cables and connectors are used for electrical connections, then electrical connectivity is established, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates mechanical and electrical coupling functions into a single connector assembly, reducing the total component count and associated costs. By combining what would traditionally be separate mechanical mounts, signal cables, power cables, and grounding wires into one integrated unit, the system reduces material costs, assembly costs, and maintenance costs while simplifying the overall connection system.
3Volume of moving object
If electronic components are directly attached to structural elements, then space utilization improves, but electrical connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical attachment and electrical connection functions into a single integrated connector assembly that attaches directly to the structural chassis. This allows electronic components to be mounted directly on structural elements while maintaining simple electrical connections through the integrated connector, avoiding the complexity of separate cable management and electrical connection systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A structural connector system for providing an electrical connection between electronic componentry is disclosed. The structural connector system includes a structural member, including an electrically insulating matrix, an electrically conducting path, a first end surface, a second end surface, and a first component engaging surface. The first component engaging surface includes a first mechanical coupler configured to mechanically couple a first electronic component or a first chassis component to the structural member and a first electrical coupler configured to electrically couple the first electronic component or the first chassis component to a first end of the electrically conducting path. The structural member further includes a second component engaging surface that includes a second mechanical coupler and a second electrical coupler configured to electrically couple the first electronic component, the first chassis component, the second electronic component, or the second chassis component to a second end of the electrically conducting path.