Self-Guiding Panel Connector for Moisture-Tight Bus Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connectors for printed electrics in aviation and electronics require a free floating substrate tail for connection, which cannot be properly stowed and incurs stress, and do not provide a secure moisture seal.
Innovation Solution
A self-guiding electric connector with a deformable main body and conductive layers that sandwiches between two planar panels, using magnetic pressure for connection and sealing, eliminating the need for a free floating cable and allowing easy adjustment and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a free floating substrate tail is used for connection, then electrical connection between panels is achieved, but the substrate cannot be properly stowed and incurs stress
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the problematic free floating substrate tail by implementing a rigid connector with integrated conductive layers that directly connects the two panels through a sandwich structure, removing the need for a separate flexible cable tail that causes stowing and stress issues
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the electrical connection function and the mechanical connection function into a single integrated rigid connector structure. The conductive layers are fully integrated into the connector body, combining the electrical pathway and structural support into one unified component that eliminates the need for separate flexible cables
2Reliability
If a free floating substrate tail is used for connection, then electrical connection is achieved, but proper stowing is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the flexible substrate tail that prevents proper stowing by replacing it with a rigid connector structure that maintains electrical connectivity without requiring a long, flexible cable extension, enabling proper panel stowing
3Reliability
If current connector designs are used, then electrical connection is achieved, but moisture seal is not secure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the electrical connection function and the sealing function into a single integrated sandwich structure. The rigid connector with conductive layers simultaneously provides the electrical pathway and creates a moisture barrier, eliminating the need for separate sealing mechanisms and ensuring both electrical connectivity and environmental protection
4Reliability
If additional installation components like installation lids or free floating cables are used, then electrical connection is achieved, but installation time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions (electrical connection, mechanical connection, and sealing) into a single rigid connector component that is sandwiched between the panels. This integration eliminates the need for separate installation lids, flexible cables, and additional sealing components, significantly reducing installation time and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the electrical connection through integrated conductive layers, provides mechanical support and alignment, and creates a moisture barrier. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate components and simplifies the installation process
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
Enables stable, moisture-tight electrical connections without additional installation costs, allowing for easy connection to power and data buses and reducing stress on substrates.
Implementation Method 1
When the two panels are pressed together, e.g., by two magnets, the flexible layer will be pressed on both sides against the electrical tracks to ensure a stable connection. Additionally, through the magnetic pressure, the humidity and moisture seal is tightened.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for enabling an electrical connection between principal surfaces of two planar panels by being sandwiched between the two planar panels. The connector comprises a deformable main body having a first elongated cuboid shape and having, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first elongated cuboid shape, a first rectangular cross-section, and a conductive layer fully enclosing the perimeter of the first rectangular cross-section along a portion of the longitudinal direction of the deformable main body.