Evaluation of a Spring-Finger Based, Magnetic Connector Concept for Reliable E-Textile Interconnects

Abstract

Reliable, impermanent connectors are a significant challenge in the development of e-textile devices, needed to increase their modularity, a key factor in their ability to be repaired or recycled. The combination of spring loaded contacts and magnetic fastenings is a promising option as these components exhibit the small size and mechanical compliance necessary for use in flexible devices.This paper details the evaluation of a 5 pin, spring finger connector held in place by two pairs of 1 mm thick NdFeB button magnets. The connector is subjected to bending and straightening around a 9 cm diameter to analyse its suitability for use in an e-textile device. The results show that with 1.3 mm high springs and a backing with a flexural rigidity of 1.16×10 −4 N m², 100% reliability can be achieved on that test. These results indicate a necessity to use small springs that can easily be flattened. However, their small working range means that they may not be as reliable when connecting to uneven surfaces.

Research Status and Prospect of Finger Rehabilitation Machinery

“…If the finger rehabilitation machinery is classified by the actuation method, it can be divided into: end traction drive, 49–53 motor drive, 54–59 spring drive, 60–63 rope drive, 64–70 memory alloy drive, 71–76 electroactive material drive, 77–79 hydraulic drive 80–82 and pneumatic drive. 83–88 Each actuation mode has its application characteristics, this paper will analyze the above driving methods and their typical applications.…”