Semi-automatic connector for flexible circuit with elastic snap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flexible circuit connectors have insufficient tensile strength, leading to potential detachment under tension, are complex to manufacture, and costly, with limitations in reusability and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automatic connector design featuring a snap-fit mechanism with integral fixed and elastic arms, recesses, and anti-slip grooves, allowing for secure engagement and easy release of flexible circuit pads, along with a resistor for defibrillation functionality, reducing component count and manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a traditional board connector with press lock is used to connect flexible circuit, then the connection can be established, but the tensile strength is insufficient and the connection may break under tension
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs elastic arms that can dynamically deform during insertion and connection. The elastic arms bend during the insertion process to engage with the flexible circuit board, and this dynamic elasticity provides tensile strength to resist pulling forces, preventing connection failure under tension.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into multiple functional segments: elastic arms for engagement, fixed arms for structural support, and a button mechanism for release. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally, with the elastic arms providing tensile strength while the fixed arms maintain structural integrity.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional flexible circuit connectors are used, then connections can be made, but the structure is complicated and manufacturing is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure. The elastic arms, fixed arms, and button mechanism are combined into one piece that can be molded as a single component, eliminating the need for separate parts and complex assembly processes, thereby simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design serves multiple purposes: the elastic arms provide both insertion engagement and tensile strength, the fixed arms provide structural support and positioning, and the integrated button provides both structural function and release mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed.
3Ease of operation
If traditional connectors are used, then initial connection is possible, but repeat pad-in is not allowed and usage is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a button mechanism that allows the user to easily release and reinsert the flexible circuit board. By pressing the button, the elastic arms are forced inward, automatically releasing the grip on the board, enabling convenient repeat connections without requiring tools or complex maneuvers.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arms provide dynamic engagement that allows for easy insertion and removal. During normal use, the arms maintain a secure grip through their elastic deformation, but when the button is pressed, they dynamically adjust to release the connection, enabling repeat pad-in operations.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional flexible circuit connectors are used, then connection can be established, but the cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple functions into a single molded component, the manufacturing process is simplified and material usage is optimized, reducing production costs. The single-piece construction eliminates the need for multiple parts and assembly steps while maintaining reliable connection through the integrated elastic and fixed arms.
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
The connector provides reliable, flexible, and cost-effective connections with enhanced tensile strength and user convenience, preventing detachment under tension and ensuring secure contact with the circuit board, while the defibrillation resistor adds functionality.
Implementation Method 1
two elastic arms (4.1) in parallel and a barb snap (4.1.1) on a free end of each flexible arm (4.1)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
A semi-automatic connector for flexible circuit, comprising a lead wire (6), an upper housing (1), a lower housing (2) and an insert snap portion (4); a button hole (1.1) being opened on the upper housing (1) and a button (3) being disposed in the button hole (1.1); wherein a circuit board (5) is disposed in the lower housing (2) and the top surface of the circuit board (5) provided with elastic sheets (5.1), the circuit board (5) is connected to one end of the lead wire (6); the insert snap portion (4) is disposed above the circuit board (5) with a cavity to receive a flexible circuit pad; the insert snap portion includes two elastic arms (4.1) in parallel and a barb snap (4.1.1) is provided on a free end of each flexible arm (4.1); within the cavity, the flexible circuit pad (8) is being locked as the two barb snaps engaging with recesses (8.1) on the flexible circuit pad (8) and the bottom surface of the flexible circuit pad (8) is in close contact with the elastic sheets (5.1) on the top surface of the circuit board (5); as the button (3) is being pressed downwards, the elastic arms (4.1) are bent until the two barb snaps (4.1.1) on the insert snap portion out of recesses (8.1) of the flexible circuit pad (8). The structure is simple with fewer components and flexible and reliable in connection, which is not easy to detach. The connector has a defibrillation function.