Spring-Loaded Connector Assembly for Compact Smart Clothing Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for connecting electric wires to flexible conductors on smart clothing are bulky and unreliable due to the need for a separatable connection portion, which increases the size of the device and impairs the reliability of the electric connection.
Innovation Solution
A compact connector design that incorporates spring members and insulators to securely connect coated electric wires to a sheet type conductive member, ensuring reliable electrical contact while minimizing the device's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separatable connection portion is used to connect electric wires to flexible conductors, then the connector can be assembled and disassembled, but the device size increases and connection reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection function and the retention function into a single integrated structure. The connection portion includes a connection body with a clamping portion that directly夹持s the flexible conductor, eliminating the need for separate retention mechanisms. This integration maintains connection reliability while reducing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the insulation protecting portion is inserted into the connection body, and the clamping portion is positioned within the connection cavity. This nesting approach compactly arranges the components, reducing overall device size while maintaining functional integrity.
2Ease of operation
If a separatable connection portion is used to connect electric wires to flexible conductors, then the connector can be assembled and disassembled, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection function and the retention function into a single integrated structure. The connection portion includes a connection body with a clamping portion that directly夹持s the flexible conductor, eliminating the need for separate retention mechanisms. This integration maintains connection reliability while reducing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the insulation protecting portion is inserted into the connection body, and the clamping portion is positioned within the connection cavity. This nesting approach compactly arranges the components, reducing overall device size while maintaining functional integrity.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact connector design is used to reduce device size, then the connector size decreases, but connection reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection function and the retention function into a single integrated structure. The connection portion includes a connection body with a clamping portion that directly夹持s the flexible conductor, eliminating the need for separate retention mechanisms. This integration maintains connection reliability while reducing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an insulation protecting portion as an intermediary component that wraps around the flexible conductor before it enters the clamping portion. This intermediary element protects the conductor insulation during insertion and ensures reliable electrical contact while maintaining a compact overall structure.
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 proposed connector achieves a smaller size and improved reliability of electric connection between the flexible conductor and the electric wire, suitable for use in smart clothing applications.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member (16) incorporated in said second insulator (15), said spring member (16) elastically pressing said conductor portion (12A) and said flexible conductor (S1) against each other
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
A connector includes a first insulator having a protrusion portion formed on a first retaining surface, a second insulator having a recess portion formed at a second retaining surface, and a spring member retained in one of the first insulator and the second insulator, the spring member being disposed between the protrusion portion and the recess portion and has a pressing portion that is elastically displaceable in a first direction, a sheet type conductive member and an electric wire being sandwiched between the first retaining surface and the second retaining surface, at least a part of the protrusion portion being accommodated in the recess portion, a conductor portion of the electric wire and a flexible conductor of the sheet type conductive member being pressed against each other in the first direction by the pressing portion within the recess portion.