Fischer Connectors flexes its design power for SWaP
Products and accessories have been added to the Fischer Freedom series of plug-and-use connectivity products. The company says that its wearable connectivity solutions are now easier to integrate into flexible structures.
The additions to the Freedom series allow design engineers to further optimise cable management in line with size, weight and power (SWaP) requirements, and integrate low profile connectors, cable assemblies and active devices easily into all sorts of materials, even the most flexible of fabrics, says Fischer.
The rugged sewing junction of the new Fischer Freedom Quick Detach System allows designers to convert flexible material into a potential panel, for example as part of a heavy duty tarp cover or tent, a sail, vehicle tyre blankets or smart backpacks. The adapter and retaining ring facilitate the quick fit and interchange of receptacles.
There is also the Fischer Freedom cabled receptacle (pictured) which is available in size 08 and is a smaller version of the receptacle which was first introduced to the market last year. This cabled receptacle has a metal housing, four signal and power contact tracks, IP68 sealing and EMI shielding, making it suitable for use under any conditions, says Fischer. It is also easy to integrate into garments or mount on panels, and quick to fit and remove.
The ease of integration of the Fischer Freedom technology enables design engineers to integrate more technology and functionality into fixed, portable or wearable devices and ecosystems in defence and security, medical, instrumentation, industrial and civil engineering, robotics, wearables and the IoT.
For example, in the military and industrial markets, the 360 degree mating, easy cleaning, low profile design and ergonomics, all contribute to ease of integration in projects such as Wearin’s connected vest, which won the Platinum 2020 Technology Innovators Award. This vest has a centralised, integrated connectivity system featuring six Fischer Freedom seven-contact receptacles fitted using the new Quick Detach System.
In another project, VRaktion’s design engineers have integrated a Fischer Freedom four-contact receptacle in plastic into a smart work shoe using an obstacle warning system with laser sensors.