Rotating Connector Assembly for Optical Scanner Wiring

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing optical information acquisition devices require expensive shunt devices for network installation when connected in series, complicating the installation and layout process.

Innovation Solution

A scanner with a three-connector assembly, where two connectors are configured for a Profinet network, allowing the connectors to be rotated between two positions perpendicular to different sides of the main body, positioned at the vertices of an acute-angled triangle, eliminating the need for shunt devices and optimizing wiring and installation space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If shunt devices are used for network installation when scanners are connected in series, then network connectivity is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork connectivityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple connectors (power connector and Ethernet connector) into a single integrated connector assembly that can be rotated between different positions. This merging eliminates the need for separate shunt devices and reduces installation complexity while maintaining network connectivity reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides both power connection and network data connection through integrated connectors, and can be positioned in multiple orientations to adapt to different installation environments. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate shunt devices.

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

2Ease of manufacture

If connectors are fixed in position, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different installation spaces is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector assembly manufacturingVSAvoidinstallation space adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connector assembly is designed with rotational capability, allowing it to dynamically change position between a first position (perpendicular to first side face) and a second position (perpendicular to rear face). This dynamic positioning capability enables adaptation to different installation spaces while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a standardized rotating mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If connectors are positioned to maximize wiring freedom, then ease of wiring is improved, but device footprint increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiring easeVSAvoiddevice footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector assembly utilizes the rotational dimension to provide wiring freedom. By allowing rotation between different positions, the system achieves ease of wiring without requiring a larger footprint, as the adaptability is achieved through spatial reconfiguration rather than horizontal expansion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS9355292B2Optical information acquisition device
Publication Date: 2016.05.31 DATALOGIC IP TECH
  • US9355292B2 patent drawing
  • US9355292B2 patent drawing
  • US9355292B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical information acquisition device that comprises a main body and a connector assembly associated with said main body and comprising three connectors. The connector assembly can be rotated with respect to said main body between a first operating position wherein said connectors extend substantially perpendicularly to a first side of said main body and a second operating position in which said connectors extend substantially perpendicularly to a second side of said main body. The three connectors are positioned at the vertices of an acute-angled triangle, more preferably at the vertices of an equilateral triangle.