Sheet Connector Structure for Bottom-Side Conductor Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors are ineffective for electrically connecting conductors exposed on the bottom surface of a flexible substrate, limiting their usability.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a plug contact with an axially extending portion and an orthogonally extending portion, combined with an elastically deformable inner contact, allows for electrical connection to conductors on either the top or bottom surface of a sheet-type connection object by sandwiching the conductor between the orthogonally extending portion and the inner contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional connector design is used, then electrical connection to conductors on the top surface is achieved, but connection to conductors on the bottom surface is impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with dual functionality: the plug contact can connect to conductors on either the top surface (via direct contact through the insulating substrate) or the bottom surface (via contact through the insulating substrate from the opposite side). This universal design allows the same connector structure to serve multiple connection scenarios, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a vertical dimension to the connection approach by enabling contact from both the top and bottom sides of the insulating substrate. The plug contact extends through the substrate thickness, allowing electrical connection to be established from either direction, thereby adding a dimensional aspect to the connector's functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the conductor is exposed on the bottom surface of the flexible substrate, then the existing connector cannot make electrical connection, but modifying the connector structure increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: the plug contact (conductive portion), the insulating substrate (insulating portion), and the housing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while maintaining overall simplicity. The plug contact can be positioned and oriented to accommodate different conductor configurations without requiring complex modifications to the entire connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating substrate serves as an intermediary element between the plug contact and the conductors. It provides both mechanical support and electrical insulation, allowing the plug contact to reach conductors on either surface while maintaining electrical isolation. This intermediary structure enables versatile connection capability without proportionally increasing overall connector complexity.
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 reliable electrical connection to conductors on both the top and bottom surfaces of a connection object, facilitating accurate signal transmission with reduced electromagnetic interference.
Implementation Method 1
an inner contact having conductivity that is elastically deformable and is supported in a state of being partially inserted in the recessed portion
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a plug contact having an axially extending portion that forms at least part of an inner surface of a recess extending along a fitting axis, and an orthogonally extending portion joined to the axially extending portion and extending from a base end of the recess in a direction orthogonal to the fitting axis, and an inner contact that is supported in a state of being partially inserted in the recess, the inner contact having a first contacting portion contacting with the inner surface of the recess, a second contacting portion contacting with the inner surface of the recess on an opposite side from the first contacting portion, and a third contacting portion facing the orthogonally extending portion, part of a connection object of sheet shape being sandwiched between a bottom surface of the orthogonally extending portion and the third contacting portion.