Single-Twisted-Pair Connector With IDC Coupling and Metal Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for single-twisted pairs of conductors are not optimized for efficient transmission of both power and data, lacking a compact and effective solution for data and power transfer in communications networks.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a forward and rear connector body with a metal frame, providing a central channel for a single pair of conductors, and utilizing cantilevered side arms and insulation displacement contacts for secure electrical coupling, enabling transmission of both power and data without the need for crimping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a single twisted pair of conductors is used for data and power transmission, then the connector becomes more compact and cable complexity is reduced, but reliable electrical coupling and signal integrity become more difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional zones: a central channel for conductor insertion, upward and downward channels for contact engagement, and cantilevered side arms for securing the connection. This segmentation allows each zone to optimize its function while maintaining overall compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact receiving portion is nested within the rear connector body, with upward and downward channels providing access through elongate openings in the side faces. The cantilevered side arms are integrated into the connector body structure, creating a nested arrangement that maximizes space utilization.
2Ease of manufacture
If insulation displacement contacts are used without crimping, then assembly complexity is reduced and manufacturing becomes easier, but secure electrical coupling and mechanical strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional crimping mechanical system is replaced with an insulation displacement contact system where contacts engage conductors through controlled insertion and displacement, eliminating the need for crimping tools and complex assembly steps while maintaining secure electrical coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact design incorporates specific geometric parameters and material properties that enable insulation displacement without crimping. The upward and downward channels are configured with precise dimensions to guide conductor insertion and achieve reliable contact engagement through parameter optimization.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a metal frame with cantilevered side arms is implemented, then structural support and coupling stability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The metal frame integrates multiple functions into a single structural element: it provides structural support, houses the contact receiving portion, and incorporates cantilevered side arms for securing the connection. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support, guides conductor insertion through centralized and side channels, houses insulation displacement contacts, and secures the connection through integrated cantilevered arms. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a forward connector body, a rear connector body that interfaces with the forward connector body and a metal frame positioned about the forward and rear connectors bodies. The rear connector body defines a central channel to receive a single pair of conductors. Each of a first and second side face of the rear connector body includes an elongate opening that extends through a front face of the rear connector body to provide access to an upward channel and a downward channel, respectively, of a contact receiving portion of the rear connector body. The metal frame includes a rearward portion and a forward portion. The rearward portion of the metal frame is positioned about the rear connector body as well as a rearward portion of the forward connector body while the forward portion of the metal frame is positioned about a forward portion of the forward connector body.