Rotating Electrical Connector Assembly With Magnetic Auto-Return
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector assemblies face challenges in returning to their original position after rotating to mate with a mating connector.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a first magnetic attraction element in a rotating body and a second magnetic attraction element in the housing, allowing the connector rotating unit to automatically return to its original position upon release of an external force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a connector rotating unit is designed to rotate relative to the housing for mating with a mating connector, then the adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but the reliability of maintaining the original position and the device complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical return mechanisms (such as springs or cam mechanisms) with a magnetic field-based attraction system. The first magnetic attraction element on the rotating body and the second magnetic attraction element in the housing generate magnetic attraction force to automatically return the connector rotating unit to its original position, eliminating complex mechanical components while maintaining position stability and mating capability
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary between the first and second magnetic attraction elements, transmitting the return force without direct mechanical contact. This magnetic mediation enables the automatic return function while reducing mechanical wear and improving reliability
2Reliability
If a magnetic attraction system is introduced to enable automatic return, then the reliability and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the return force generation function from complex mechanical systems and implements it through simple magnetic attraction elements. By taking out the essential function of generating return force and implementing it through magnetic fields rather than mechanical components, the design achieves automatic return with minimal structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and interaction mode from mechanical contact to magnetic field interaction. By altering the parameter of force transmission from mechanical to electromagnetic, the system achieves automatic return functionality without adding complex mechanical structures
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
Simplifies the structure and enhances user experience by enabling automatic return of the connector to its original position, improving mating reliability and reducing external interference.
Implementation Method 1
under action of a magnetic force generated by mutual attraction between the first magnetic attraction element and the second magnetic attraction element
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly includes a housing, a connector rotating unit and a second magnetic attraction element. The connector rotating unit is rotatable relative to the housing under action of an external force. The connector rotating unit includes a rotating body, a first magnetic attraction element fixed to the rotating body, and an electrical connector fixedly connected to the rotating body. The second magnetic attraction element is disposed in the housing. The second magnetic attraction element is configured to attract the first magnetic attraction element to rotate the connector rotating unit automatically back to an original position after the connector rotating unit is rotated and the external force is released.