Electro-mechanical connector for solar arrays
US8096842B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 26, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jan 17, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 26, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/50
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A connector assembly is provided for connecting two planar surfaces or structures together to permit electrical transmission between the two. As described, the connector have at least two housing sections having grooves formed therein for receiving springs, such as canted coil springs. The springs are configured to provide constant mechanical and electrical connection between multiple parts and allow for small motions between such parts. By allowing for movement of the connected parts, adequate connection during thermal changes and/or vibrations is maintained. This is possible due to the spring contact interface between the connector assembly and the connecting parts, which allows relative movement between the springs and the connecting parts.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.