Spring Pin Connector for Wearable Rotational Freedom
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of an electrical connector that can provide unobtrusive power, data, and/or ground connections between display devices and securing devices, such as smartwatches and straps, while allowing for rotational movement of the securing device.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector with a spring mechanism that establishes both physical and electrical connections, featuring concentric contact points and a quick-release lever, enabling consistent power, data, and ground connections while allowing the securing device to rotate relative to the display device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid electrical connector is used to establish stable electrical connections, then connection reliability is improved, but rotational movement of the securing device is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring mechanism that transforms the rigid connector into a dynamic system. The spring allows the connection pin to move and flex, accommodating rotational movement of the securing device while maintaining continuous electrical contact. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by enabling both connection stability and rotational freedom simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring constant and pre-compression force are carefully selected to provide sufficient contact pressure for reliable electrical connection while allowing adequate deflection range for rotational movement. By optimizing these parameters, the system achieves both connection reliability and rotational adaptability.
2Device complexity
If multiple electrical connections are provided at a single physical location, then device complexity is reduced, but insulation between contact points becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses concentric contact points where multiple electrical connections are arranged in nested cylindrical layers. The connection pin has a central contact point, surrounded by an insulating layer, then additional concentric contact points. This nested arrangement achieves multiple electrical connections at a single physical location while maintaining proper insulation between different electrical potentials.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of arranging multiple contact points in a planar configuration, the patent transitions to a three-dimensional concentric arrangement. This dimensional change allows multiple electrical connections to be packed into a compact cylindrical space while maintaining adequate insulation distances, reducing overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If a spring mechanism is added to provide consistent electrical connection, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides consistent contact pressure for reliable electrical connection, allows for rotational movement accommodation, and compensates for manufacturing tolerances and wear. By making the spring multi-functional, the added complexity is justified by multiple reliability improvements from a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is integrated with the connection pin as a unified assembly rather than separate components. The spring is positioned within the pin structure itself, combining the mechanical connection function and the electrical contact function into a single integrated component, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
4Device complexity
If the outer casing is used for ground connection, then the number of components is reduced, but insulation requirements for the casing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The outer casing is constructed from composite materials that combine electrical insulation properties with mechanical strength and ground conductivity where needed. This allows the single casing component to serve multiple functions: structural support, electrical insulation in non-contact areas, and ground connection at designated contact points, thereby reducing component count while meeting insulation requirements.
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 electrical connector maintains reliable power, data, and ground connections between display and securing devices, enabling rotational freedom and improved usability in wearable electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is operably attached to the connection pin
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector is disclosed that, in one exemplary configuration, includes a connection pin, a spring, an insulator, an outer casing, and a quick-release lever. The electrical connector is used to electrically connect a display device, like a watch, and a securing device, like a watch strap. The electrical connector may be used to create electrical and ground connections between the securing device and the display device from a single point of contact. The quick-release lever may be used for the improved attachment and release of the electrical connector from the display device.