Reversible Terminal Connector Coupling for Direct PCB Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling arrangements for terminal connectors and circuit boards are not cost-efficient, require additional wiring, and lack a compact and reliable connection method, making them difficult to assemble and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A coupling arrangement that mechanically and electrically connects terminal connectors directly to circuit boards using complementary connection structures, eliminating the need for additional wiring and providing a reversible, stable, and compact connection, with features like guide rails, latching elements, and standardized pin connections for secure and flexible conductor insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional wiring and devices are used to connect terminal connectors to circuit boards, then electrical connection can be achieved, but assembly complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the terminal connector and circuit board into a single integrated assembly where the terminal connector is directly mounted on the circuit board. This merging eliminates the need for separate wiring and connection devices, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connection through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit board serves multiple functions: it provides the electrical circuitry, the mounting structure for the terminal connector, and the mechanical support for the entire assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate wiring harnesses and connection devices, simplifying the overall system while ensuring reliable electrical connections.
2Reliability
If traditional wiring methods are used to connect terminal connectors to circuit boards, then electrical connection is achieved, but the overall size and weight of the assembly increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the terminal connector and circuit board into a single integrated unit, the patent eliminates the weight of separate wiring harnesses, connectors, and mounting devices. The integrated design achieves reliable electrical connection while minimizing the overall weight of the assembly.
3Ease of manufacture
If terminal connectors are directly mounted on circuit boards, then assembly is simplified and size is reduced, but the connection may be too permanent to allow easy maintenance or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the integrated assembly into separable components: the terminal connector unit can be removed from the circuit board. This segmentation allows the assembly to be simple and compact during manufacturing, while enabling easy disassembly for maintenance or replacement by separating the terminal connector from the circuit board.
4Reliability
If wiring is used to connect terminal connectors to circuit boards, then electrical connection is achieved, but strain relief and additional components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical connection function directly into the mechanical mounting structure. The terminal connector is electrically connected to the circuit board through direct contact points integrated into the mounting interface, eliminating the need for separate wiring and strain relief components. This reduces the total number of components while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A coupling arrangement 10 for reversibly mechanically and electrically coupling a terminal connector 200 to a circuit board arrangement 100 comprising, the circuit board arrangement 100, which contains a circuit board 110 and a connecting element 120 being mechanically connected to the circuit board 110. Hereby the connecting element 120 comprises at least one connecting unit 121, wherein each connecting unit 121 comprises a first electrical connection point 124 being electrically connected to the circuit board 110. Moreover the coupling arrangement further contains the terminal connector 200 comprising at least one terminal connector unit 210 and a housing 205 for carrying the at least one terminal connector unit 210. In a mechanical connection state of the terminal connector 200 and the circuit board arrangement 100, the respective terminal connector units 210 and connecting units 121 are coupled, providing an electrical connection of the terminal connector 200 and the circuit board 110.