Electronic port with locking assembly for locking electronic plug

Abstract

The invention relates to an electronic port with a locking assembly for locking an electronic plug. An electronic port includes a receptacle and a locking assembly having a clamp module and a fastener. The receptacle includes a first retainer member and a second retainer member configured to releasably retain a connector of the electronic plug. The clamping module includes a first clamping member having a first engagement member and a second clamping member movably coupled to the first clamping member and having a second engagement member, the first and second engagement members being aligned with the first and second retainer members. A fastener is movably coupled to the clamping module to transition the clamping module between a fastened state and an unfastened state by moving the first clamping member and / or the second clamping member relative to the receptacle. In the unfastened state, the first retainer member and the second retainer member are allowed to release the connector, and in the fastened state, the first engagement member and the second engagement member engage the first retainer member and the second retainer member and prevent the connector from being released.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Electronic devices such as servers, storage devices, and access points may include one or more electronic input / output (I / O) ports, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. In such an example, a removable electronic module with a USB plug can be connected to the electronic device via the USB port for storing, processing, receiving, and transmitting data. Because the USB plug is configured to be removed from the USB port in a "plug-and-play" manner, the USB port can have a standardized connection interface for the USB plug. Attached Figure Description

[0002] Different examples will be described below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0003] Figure 1A A block diagram of an electronic port maintained in an unsecured state according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0004] Figure 1B The illustration shows an example of a transition from an unfastened state to a fastened state according to this disclosure. Figure 1A A block diagram of the electronic port.

[0005] Figure 2A An exploded perspective view of an electronic device having a housing, circuit board, electronic port, and electronic plug according to an example of the present disclosure is shown.

[0006] Figure 2B An example according to this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2A A three-dimensional view of an assembled electronic device having an electronic plug connected to an electronic port that is held in an unsecured state.

[0007] Figure 2C An example according to this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2B electronic devices along Figure 2B The cross-sectional view taken by line 1-1' in the figure.

[0008] Figure 3A An example according to this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2A An enlarged 3D view of the socket for the electronic port.

[0009] Figure 3B An example according to this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2A An enlarged perspective view of the first clamping component of the electronic port.

[0010] Figure 3C An example according to this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2A An enlarged perspective view of the second clamping component of the electronic port.

[0011] Figure 3D An example according to this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2A An enlarged 3D view of the electronic plug.

[0012] Figure 4A An example according to this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2A A three-dimensional view of an assembled electronic device having an electronic plug connected to an electronic port and held in a secure position.

[0013] Figure 4B The illustration shows an example along the path according to this disclosure. Figure 4A The line 2-2' is cut off and has an electronic port that transitions from a non-fastened state to a fastened state. Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of an electronic device.

[0014] Figure 5A A block diagram of an electronic port held in an unsecured state according to yet another example of this disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 5B The illustration shows a transition from a fastened state to a fastened state according to yet another example of this disclosure. Figure 5A A block diagram of the electronic port.

[0016] Figure 6 It is a flowchart depicting a method for locking an electronic plug to an electronic port using a locking component according to an example of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. For illustrative purposes, refer to Figures 1 to 12. Figure 6 The components illustrated herein represent certain examples. However, the functions of the illustrated components may overlap and may be present in fewer or greater numbers of elements and components. Furthermore, the disclosed examples can be implemented in various settings and are not limited to the illustrated examples. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar components. However, it should be clearly understood that these drawings are for illustrative and descriptive purposes only. While several examples are described in this document, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. Therefore, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosed examples. Rather, the appropriate scope of the disclosed examples may be defined by the appended claims.

[0018] Electronic plugs and ports (such as USB plugs and ports) can be used to connect communication cables to electronic devices. This communication cable can then be connected to another device, thus establishing a communication and / or power delivery path between the first electronic device and another. In addition to communication cables, such electronic plugs and ports can also be used to directly connect removable electronic modules (e.g., cellular modems, dongles, etc.) to electronic devices without the need for a cable running between them. Removable electronic modules can be added to electronic devices (e.g., access points) to perform intended functions, such as connecting to the Internet, updating firmware, providing low-power charging, etc. A communication cable or removable electronic module can be connected to an electronic device by inserting the plug of the cable or module into a port. Similarly, a communication cable or removable electronic module can be disconnected from an electronic device by unplugging the plug from the port.

[0019] Typically, such plugs and ports are designed to engage and disengage relatively easily to allow for easy installation / removal. Plugs and ports may have retaining mechanisms designed to hold them together once engaged, but these mechanisms usually apply relatively small forces, primarily to prevent accidental disconnection (e.g., preventing gravity from pulling the plug out of the port). These forces are typically small enough to be easily overcome when a user actively pulls the plug to remove it from the port. For example, a USB port may include retaining features including spring-loaded fingers with pawls that engage with recesses / holes in the USB plug, such that inserting or removing the USB plug requires displacement (bending) of the spring-loaded fingers; therefore, the amount of force required to remove the USB plug is proportional to the spring force of the spring-loaded fingers.

[0020] Correspondingly, the plugs of communication cables or removable electronic modules can be removed from the ports of electronic devices as easily as plugging a plug into a port. Therefore, communication cables or removable electronic modules can be easily removed accidentally or incorrectly, potentially disrupting the operation of the device. For example, when a technician is repairing network equipment with multiple plugs inserted, they might unplug a plug that shouldn't be unplugged, mistaking it for another plug. Besides accidental / incorrect removal, valuable removable electronic modules can also be tempting and easily targeted objects for theft from electronic devices.

[0021] Some prior methods for securing plugs to ports included latching elements added to the plug and engaging with the port to prevent removal unless the user actuated the latch (e.g., by pressing a button). While these methods reduce accidental removal by requiring users to intentionally press a button to remove the plug, they do not address the problem of intentional but accidental removal or theft, as the plug can still be removed quickly and easily if desired. Other prior methods for securing removable electronic modules include using external locking mechanisms to secure the removable electronic modules to some securing element of the electronic device (such as a locking case that surrounds the removable electronic module and anchors it to the housing of the electronic device). However, such external locking mechanisms can complicate the authorized removal of the removable electronic module from the electronic device. Furthermore, external locking mechanisms used to protect multiple removable electronic modules in a data center environment can be a complex and cumbersome process. In addition, external locking mechanisms are often inherently bulky, making them difficult to use in space-constrained electronic devices. Consequently, external locking mechanisms for securing removable electronic modules to electronic devices can be cumbersome or not cost-effective.

[0022] A technical solution to the aforementioned problems may include providing a locking component having clamping members disposed around a port and configured to engage opposite sides of a receptacle of the electronic port in a plug-to-port mounted state to clamp the plug onto the port and prevent the connector of the electronic plug from being released from the receptacle. Accordingly, when a cable with an electronic plug (e.g., a USB plug) or a removable electronic module (e.g., a cellular modem) is mounted or connected to an electronic port (e.g., a USB port) of an electronic device (e.g., an access point), the locking component can engage with the receptacle to prevent the plug from being released from the port. Furthermore, as described in more detail below, the locking component can be primarily (or entirely) housed within the enclosure of the electronic device, thereby avoiding problems that may arise from the bulky nature of the aforementioned external locking mechanisms. Additionally, the locking component can effectively deter many thefts because, unlike a simple button on a plug, it may require expertise in how to release the device (knowledge that thieves may not possess). Moreover, even if a potential thief possesses the knowledge of how to release the locking mechanism, releasing it may require tools and may take some time (unlike pressing a simple button on a plug), which can further deter some thefts (e.g., opportunity theft). (Of course, security solutions cannot deter determined thieves with sufficient time and tools, but by making removal more difficult and time-consuming, most thefts, which are often accidental or opportunistic, can be prevented.) Furthermore, because in some examples the locking mechanism does not require modification to the plug itself, electronics manufacturers can implement locking mechanisms in their devices without limiting compatibility to certain plugs and without requiring manufacturers of communication cables or removable electronic modules to design changes to their products to implement locking.

[0023] In some examples, the plug and port include a USB plug and port. In these examples, the receptacle can be a standardized component of a USB port, comprising a first set of retainer members on a first side of the receptacle and a second set of retainer members on a second side of the receptacle, opposite to the first side. Similarly, the connector can be a standardized component of a USB plug, comprising a first set of recesses on a first side of the connector and a second set of recesses on a second side of the connector, opposite to the first side. In such examples, when a removable electronic module is connected to an electronic device, the first and second sets of retainer members can engage with the first and second sets of recesses to releasably hold the connector of the USB plug to the receptacle of the USB port. Because the retainer members of the receptacle are not locked or freely movable, the receptacle can release the connector when the electronic plug is pulled out of the electronic port, thereby allowing the removable electronic module to be removed from the electronic device. In one or more examples of this disclosure, a locking component can be used to lock the retainer members (or restrict the movement of the retainer members) to prevent the removable electronic module from the electronic device. In some examples, the locking components include a clamping module and a fastener that work together to engage with the receptacle and restrict the USB plug from being released from the USB port, thereby preventing the removable electronic module from being stolen or accidentally removed from the electronic device.

[0024] In some examples, the clamping module includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the first clamping member having a first set of engaging members and the second clamping member having a second set of engaging members. The second clamping member is movably coupled to the first clamping member. In some examples, the first clamping member may include a guide structure that engages with the second clamping member to guide movement of the second clamping member relative to the first clamping member along an axis and movably couples the second clamping member to the first clamping member. The first clamping member includes a space allowing the clamping module to surround a socket, such that the first set of engaging members and the second set of engaging members of the first and second clamping members are disposed on opposite sides of the socket and aligned with the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members of the socket. Furthermore, a fastener is movably coupled to the clamping module. Specifically, the fastener extends through an opening in the wall of the first clamping member and contacts the second clamping member. When actuated, the fastener can move the clamping module between a tightened and loose state by moving the first and / or second clamping members relative to the socket. In some examples, the fastener may include a threaded element that can engage with a thread in an opening of a first clamping member, and an end of the threaded element can contact a second clamping member. In such an example, when the threaded element rotates, the threaded element can drive movement of the first clamping member and / or the second clamping member in response to translation of the threaded element along the vertical axis of the locking assembly.

[0025] In some examples, the fastener is actuated in a first actuation direction to transfer the clamping module to a secured state. As the fastener is actuated along the first actuation direction, it can move the first clamping member along the first direction and / or move the second clamping member along a second direction opposite to the first direction until the first set of engaging members engages with the first set of retainer members, the second set of engaging members engages with the second set of retainer members, and the first and second sets of engaging members are separated by a first gap distance. Furthermore, the fastener can remain in this actuated state to constrain the first and second clamping members to maintain the first gap distance between the first and second sets of engaging members, thereby preventing movement of the first and second sets of retainer members that would release the electronic plug from the electronic port. Additionally, the fastener can be actuated in the second actuation direction to transfer the clamping module to an unsecured state. As the fastener is actuated along the second actuation direction, the fastener can move the first clamping member along the second direction and / or move the second clamping member along the first direction until the first set of engaging members and the second set of engaging members are separated by a second interval distance greater than the first interval distance, thereby allowing the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members to move to release the electronic plug from the electronic port.

[0026] Because the engaging members are configured to engage with internal components (e.g., the retainer members of the socket) to prevent release of the connector of the electronic plug, this locking assembly occupies significantly less space in the electronic device compared to an external locking device used to secure the USB plug. Accordingly, the locking assembly with this simple design can be standalone and does not require additional components outside the USB port, thus allowing for a considerably low cost for securing removable electronic modules within the electronic device. Furthermore, since both the first and second sets of retainer members are engaged by the first and second sets of engaging members of the locking assembly, the amount of force required to forcibly remove (or steal) the removable electronic device from the electronic device can be considerably high, for example, greater than 130N (which can be greater than the average force a person can apply), thereby securing the USB plug to the USB port.

[0027] Figure 1A A block diagram depicts the electronic port 100 in an unsecured state. Figure 1B Depicting the transition to a tight state Figure 1A A block diagram of the electronic port 100. In the following description, for ease of explanation, and also... Figures 1A to 1B A description has been provided. It should be understood that... Figures 1A to 1BThis illustration is not intended to be an accurate or scaled representation of a specific shape, size, or other structural detail, and embodiments of the electronic port 100 may have different numbers and arrangements of the illustrated components, and may also include other components not shown. In some examples, the electronic port 100 is an electronic device 200 such as a computer (e.g., a server, storage device), a network device (e.g., a switch, access point) (see [link]). Figures 2A to 2C The electronic port 100A includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. In one or more examples, the electronic port 100 includes a socket 102 and a locking component 104.

[0028] Socket 102 may be a standardized component of electronic port 100, which may be configured to receive and insert electronic plug 300 (e.g., USB plug 300A, see below). Figure 3D Connector 302 (see) Figure 3D In some examples, socket 102 may be electrically connected and physically coupled to housing 202 of electronic device 200 (see [reference]). Figures 2A to 2C Circuit board 204 (see one or more circuit boards within) Figures 2A to 2C In some examples, the socket 102 includes a first set of retainer members 106 and a second set of retainer members 108. The first set of retainer members 106 is disposed on a first surface 110 of the socket 102. The second set of retainer members 108 is disposed on a second surface 112 of the socket 102. In some examples, each of the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 is a flexible member that can be bent along a first direction 10 and a second direction 20, respectively. Figures 1A to 1B In some examples, each of the first direction 10 and the second direction 20 may be a radial direction of the electronic device 200. In some examples, the first surface 110 and the second surface 112 are mutually opposite surfaces of the socket 102. In one or more examples, the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 may be configured to releasably retain the connector 302 when the electronic plug 300 is inserted into the electronic port 100. Specifically, when the electronic plug 300 is inserted into the electronic port 100, the first set of retainer members 106 may be bent along the first direction 10 and the second set of retainer members 108 may be bent along the second direction 20 to retain the connector 302. Furthermore, when the electronic plug 300 is removed from the electronic port 100, the first set of retainer members 106 may be bent along the second direction 20 and the second set of retainer members 108 may be bent along the first direction 10 to release the connector 302.

[0029] In some examples, locking component 104 can be used to lock receptacle 102 to prevent electronic plug 300 from being removed from electronic port 100, or to release receptacle 102 to allow electronic plug 300 to be removed from electronic port 100. Specifically, locking component 104 can be configured to engage with receptacle 102 to prevent the first set of retainer members 106 from bending along the second direction 20 and the second set of retainer members 108 from bending along the first direction 10, and to prevent the connector 302 from being released from receptacle 102, thereby preventing electronic plug 300 from being pulled out of electronic port 100. Similarly, locking component 104 can be configured to disengage from receptacle 102 to allow the first set of retainer members 106 to bend along the second direction 20 and the second set of retainer members 108 to bend along the first direction 10, and to release the connector 302 from receptacle 102, thereby allowing electronic plug 300 to be pulled out of electronic port 100. In one or more examples, locking component 104 includes clamping module 114 and fastener 116.

[0030] The clamping module 114 can be used to engage and / or disengage with the socket 102 to prevent the connector 302 from being released from the socket 102 and / or to release the connector from the socket. In one or more examples, the clamping module 114 includes a first clamping member 118 and a second clamping member 120.

[0031] The first clamping member 118 can be used to engage and / or disengage with a first set of retainer members 106 of the socket 102. The first clamping member 118 is defined by a top wall 122, a bottom wall 124, and a pair of support walls 126 extending between the top wall 122 and the bottom wall 124 to define a space 128 therebetween. In some examples, the socket 102 and the second clamping member 120 can be positioned within the space 128 defined by the first clamping member 118. The first clamping member 118 includes a first set of engaging members 130 extending from the top wall 122. In some other examples, the first set of engaging members 130 can be discrete members coupled to the top wall 122. Figures 1A to 1B In one example, the first set of engaging members 130 includes two engaging members. In some other examples, the number of engaging members in the first set of engaging members 130 may depend on the number of retainer members in the first set of retainer members 106 of the socket 102. The first set of engaging members 130 protrudes along a first direction 10 towards a first surface 110 of the socket 102. In such an example, the first set of engaging members 130 may be aligned with the first set of retainer members 106. The first clamping member 118 further includes an opening 132 defined in a bottom wall 124 and a guide structure 134. The opening 132 may be threaded (not shown) to receive a fastener 116 with reverse threads. Figures 1A to 1BIn one example, the guide structure 134 includes a pair of orifices 136. In some other examples, the guide structure 134 may include protrusions, struts, flanges, bumps, etc., without limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0032] The second clamping member 120 can be used to engage and / or disengage with the second set of retainer members 108 of the socket 102. The second clamping member 120 is defined by a base portion 138, a raised portion 140, and an intermediate portion 142 extending between the raised portion 140 and the base portion 138. In some examples, the raised portion 140 has a top surface 146 that is raised relative to the top surface 139 of the base portion 138 and disposed below and parallel to the second surface 112 of the socket 102. The raised portion 140 includes a second set of engaging members 144 extending from the top surface 146 of the raised portion 140. In some other examples, the second set of engaging members 144 may be discrete members coupled to the top surface 146 of the raised portion 140. Figures 1A to 1B In one example, the second set of engaging members 144 includes two numbers of engaging members. In some other examples, the number of engaging members in the second set of engaging members 144 may depend on the number of retainer members in the second set of retainer members 108 of the socket 102. The second set of engaging members 144 protrudes along the second direction 20 facing the second surface 112 of the socket 102. In such an example, the second set of engaging members 144 may be aligned with the second set of retainer members 108. The second clamping member 120 further includes a pair of complementary guide structures 148 extending from the bottom surface 150 of the base portion 138. In some other examples, the pair of complementary guide structures 148 may be coupled to the bottom surface 150 of the base portion 138. Furthermore, in Figures 1A to 1B In one example, the complementary guide structure 148 includes a pair of protrusions 152. In some other examples, the complementary guide structure 148 may include openings, grooves, etc., without limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0033] In some examples, the fastener 116 may be actuated along a first actuation direction 30 (e.g., counterclockwise) or a second actuation direction 40 (e.g., clockwise) to hold the clamping module 114 in a fastened state by moving the first clamping member 118 and / or the second clamping member 120 relative to the socket 102 (see [link]). Figure 1B ) and the loose state (see Figure 1AThe fastener 116 drives the first clamping member 118 and / or the second clamping member 120 to engage and / or disengage with the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108, respectively. It should be noted herein that the phrase “and / or” is occasionally used in conjunction with a list of enumerated items. This phrase means that any combination of items in the list may be included, from a single item to all items, and any permutation in between. Thus, for example, “A, B, and / or C” means one of “{A}, {B}, {C}, {A, B}, {A, C}, {C, B}, and {A, C, B}”. In some examples, the fastener 116 is a threaded member 116A, which includes a head portion 154 and a body portion 156. In some examples, the body portion 156 may include reverse threads (not shown) to engage with threads formed in the opening 132 of the first clamping member 118.

[0034] In some examples, a clamping module 114 is defined when the second clamping member 120 is movably coupled to the first clamping member 118. For example, a pair of protrusions 152 of the second clamping member 120 are disposed in a pair of orifices 136 of the first clamping member 118 to movably couple the second clamping member 120 to the first clamping member 118, thereby defining the clamping module 114. Furthermore, a locking assembly 104 is defined when a threaded member 116A is movably coupled to the first clamping member 118 of the clamping module 114. For example, a fastener 116 is actuated along a first actuation direction 30 into an opening 132 in the first clamping member 118 such that the reverse thread in the fastener 116 engages with the thread in the opening 132 to movably couple the fastener 116 to the first clamping member 118 until the end 158 of the fastener 116 contacts the second clamping member 120, thereby defining the locking assembly 104. Furthermore, when the locking assembly 104 is configured to receive the socket 102, it defines the electronic port 100. For example, the first clamping member 118 and the second clamping member 120 are positioned around the socket 102 such that the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 are disposed on opposite sides of the socket 102 and aligned with the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108, respectively, thereby defining the electronic port 100. Figures 1A to 1B In the example, since the socket 102 is physically coupled to the circuit board of the electronic device 200, the first clamping member 118 can be seated on the socket 102 due to gravity, so that the first set of engaging members 130 is movably engaged with the first set of retainer members 106.

[0035] Furthermore, the fastener 116 is actuated along the first actuation direction 30 to change the clamping module 114 from an unfastened state to a fastened state. Figures 1A to 1BIn one example, when the fastener 116 is actuated along the first actuation direction 30, in response to the movement of the fastener 116 along the vertical axis 50, the fastener 116 can drive the second clamping member 120 to move relative to the first clamping member 118 along the vertical axis 50. In such an example, the fastener 116 drives the second clamping member 120 along the second direction 20 until the first set of engaging members 130 engages with the first set of retainer members 106, the second set of engaging members 144 engages with the second set of retainer members 108, and the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 are separated by a first interval distance “D1”. Accordingly, when the fastener 116 is actuated along the first actuation direction 30, the clamping module 114 changes from an unfastened state to a fastened state. In other words, when the fastener 116 is actuated along the first actuation direction 30, the first clamping member 118 remains stationary, while the second clamping member 120 moves along the second direction 20 to change the clamping module 114 from an unfastened state to a fastened state. In such an example, the first clamping member 118 and the second clamping member 120 are constrained by the fastener 116 to maintain a first gap distance "D1" between the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144, respectively, and thereby prevent the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 from moving and the electronic plug 300 from the electronic port.

[0036] Similarly, fastener 116 is actuated along the second actuation direction 40 to change clamping module 114 from a tightened state to an untightened state. Figures 1A to 1B In the example, when the fastener 116 is actuated along the second actuation direction 40, the fastener 116 can move the second clamping member 120 along the first direction 10 until the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 are separated by a second gap distance "D2" greater than the first gap distance "D1". This allows the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 to move to release the electronic plug 300 from the electronic port 100. In other words, the first clamping member 118 can remain stationary, while the second clamping member 120 can move along the first direction 10 to change the clamping module 114 from a fastened state to an unfastened state.

[0037] In one or more examples, in the unfastened state, the first set of engaging members 130 is movably engaged with the first set of retainer members 106, while the second set of engaging members 144 is not engaged with the second set of retainer members 108, and the first clamping member 118 and the second clamping member 120 are separated by a second spacing distance “D2”. Accordingly, in the unfastened state, the second clamping member 120 may not constrain the first clamping member 118, thereby allowing the first set of engaging members 130 to move along the second direction 20 when the first retainer members 106 bend along the second direction 20 to release the connector 302 from the socket 102.

[0038] Figure 2A An exploded perspective view of electronic device 200 is depicted. Figure 2B Depicting Figure 2A A 3D view of the assembled electronic device 200. Figure 2C Depicting Figure 2B Electronic devices 200 along Figure 2B The cross-sectional view is taken from line 1-1'. In the following description, for ease of explanation, the cross-sectional view will also be shown below. Figures 2A to 2C The electronic device 200 can be a computer (e.g., a server, storage device), a network device (e.g., a switch, access point), etc. In some examples, the electronic device 200 is an access point 200A. In one or more examples, the electronic device 200 includes a housing 202, a circuit board 204, an electronic port 100, and an electronic plug 300.

[0039] The housing 202 includes a base 206 and may additionally include a cover, a first pair of support walls, and a second pair of support walls (not shown), which are coupled to each other to define an internal volume for accommodating the circuit board 204 and the electronic port 100 therein. It should be noted herein that the cover of the housing 202, as well as the first pair of support walls and the second pair of support walls, are not... Figures 2A to 2C The example is shown to illustrate other components of the electronic device 200, such as the circuit board 204, the electronic port 100, and the electronic plug 300. Therefore, the cover of the housing 202, which is not shown, the first pair of support walls, and the second pair of support walls should not be construed as limiting this disclosure. Furthermore, for ease of illustration, in Figures 2A to 2COnly a portion of the base 206 is shown in the example. The base 206 includes a second guide structure 208 and a second opening 210. In some examples, the second guide structure 208 is a pair of second apertures 212. In some other examples, the second guide structure 208 may include protrusions, struts, flanges, bumps, etc., without limiting the scope of this disclosure. The second opening 210 is located between the pair of second apertures 212. In some examples, the second opening 210 is not threaded, and therefore allows a fastener 116 with reverse threads in the locking assembly 104 of the electronic port 100 to extend freely through the second opening 210. In some other examples, the second opening 210 may include threads, and in such examples, the fastener 116 with reverse threads may engage with the threads in the second opening 210 and extend into the internal volume of the housing 202. The base 206 may further include holes (not shown) to allow the circuit board 204 to be physically coupled to the housing 202.

[0040] In some examples, circuit board 204 is a primary circuit board of electronic device 200. In other examples, circuit board 204 may be a secondary circuit board electrically connected to the primary circuit board. In one or more examples, circuit board 204 is housed within housing 202 and physically coupled to the housing. Circuit board 204 includes a substrate 214, one or more processing resources (not shown) disposed on substrate 214 (e.g., CPU, GPU, etc.), and traces (not shown) formed in substrate 214 such that the traces are connected to one or more processing resources. Substrate 214 may include a second hole 216 to enable circuit board 204 to be coupled to housing 202. In particular, when circuit board 204 is disposed on base 206 of housing 202, the second hole 216 in circuit board 204 may be aligned with a hole in base 206 of housing 202 to allow a pin (not shown) to extend through the second hole 216 and these holes and physically couple circuit board 204 to housing 202. The substrate 214 further includes a slot 218 to allow the support element 160 of the socket 102 to extend through the slot 218 and physically couple the socket 102 to the circuit board 204. Additionally, the substrate 214 may include one or more openings (not shown) to allow one or more electrical conductors 162 of the socket 102 (see [reference needed]) to... Figure 3A It can extend through one or more openings and be electrically connected to traces formed in substrate 214.

[0041] As discussed above, electronic port 100 can be used to connect the communication cable 304 of electronic plug 300 (see above). Figure 3DThe electronic plug 300 can be communicatively connected to the circuit board 204 of the electronic device 200. Specifically, the electronic plug 300 can be coupled to one end of the communication cable 304 and inserted into the electronic port 100 to communicatively connect the communication cable 304 to the circuit board 204 of the electronic device 200. In such an example, a removable electronic device (not shown) (e.g., a cellular modem, dongle, etc.) that can be coupled to the other end of the communication cable 304 can be used to perform one or more functions with the electronic device 200, such as storing, processing, receiving, and transmitting data. The electronic port 100 includes a socket 102 and a locking assembly 104.

[0042] The socket 102 can be a standardized component of the electronic port 100, such as a USB port 100A. Refer to the accompanying drawings. Figure 3AAn enlarged perspective view of a socket 102 is depicted. In some examples, the socket 102 includes a first surface 110, a second surface 112, and a pair of sidewalls 164 extending between the first surface 110 and the second surface 112 to define a hollow space 174 therein. In some examples, the first surface 110 and the second surface 112 are opposite surfaces of the socket 102. The first surface 110 includes a first set of retainer members 106, and the second surface 112 includes a second set of retainer members 108. In some examples, each of the first surface 110 and the second surface 112 further includes a set of recesses 166. In such an example, each retainer member of the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 extends from an edge 166A of a corresponding recess of the set of recesses 166. Each retainer member of the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 is a flexible member. In such an example, each of the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 has a cantilever structure comprising a free-hanging portion 168 and a fixed portion 170, which allows the free-hanging portion 168 to bend relative to the fixed portion 170 along a first direction 10 and a second direction 20. Therefore, each of the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 can bend and releasably hold the connector 302 of the electronic plug 300. The socket 102 may further include support elements 160, each formed at a corresponding end portion of the second surface 112, and each support element protruding into a slot 218 formed in the circuit board 204 to couple the socket 102 to the circuit board 204. The socket 102 may additionally include a pair of peripheral support elements 172, each peripheral support element disposed on a corresponding sidewall of the sidewall pair 164 to provide lateral support for the socket 102 within the housing 202. The socket 102 further includes one or more electrical conductors 162, each extending from a space defined below the second surface 112 into a hollow space 174 of the socket 102 via a corresponding hole (not labeled) formed in the second surface 112 of the socket 102. Additionally, the socket 102 includes a complementary connector 176 disposed in the hollow space 174 and coupled to the one or more electrical conductors 162. In some examples, when the electronic plug 300 is inserted into the electronic port 100, the complementary connector 176 of the socket 102 receives the connector 302 of the electronic plug 300. In such examples, the complementary connector 176 allows the connector 302 of the electronic plug 300 to be electrically connected to the circuit board 204 via the one or more electrical conductors 162 of the socket 102.

[0043] When the electronic plug 300 is inserted into the electronic port 100, the locking component 104 can be used to lock the connector 302 of the electronic plug 300 to the socket 102 of the electronic port 100. In one or more examples, the locking component 104 includes a clamping module 114 and a fastener 116.

[0044] The clamping module 114 includes a first clamping member 118 and a second clamping member 120. Referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 3B An enlarged perspective view of the first clamping member 118 is depicted. In some examples, the first clamping member 118 includes a top wall 122, a bottom wall 124, and a pair of support walls 126 coupled to each other to define a space 128 therebetween. The first clamping member 118 includes a first set of engaging members 130 coupled to the bottom surface 178 of the top wall 122. In some examples, each engaging member of the first set of engaging members 130 has a profile complementary to the profile of the free-suspension portion 168 of the retainer member of the first set of retainer members 106. In some examples, each engaging member of the first set of engaging members 130 is a protrusion extending from the bottom surface 178 of the top wall 122. The first clamping member 118 further includes an opening 132 and a guide structure 134, such as a pair of apertures 136 formed in the bottom wall 124. In some examples, the opening 132 is a through hole formed in the annular portion 180 extending between the bottom surface 182 and the top surface 183 of the bottom wall 124. In some examples, the first clamping member 118 further includes a threaded nut 184 that is embedded in the protruding annular portion 180 to allow engagement of a fastener 116 with reverse threads and extends therethrough through and movably coupled to the first clamping member 118. In some examples, the protruding annular portion 180 is formed between a pair of orifices 136. Referring to the figures, Figure 3C An enlarged perspective view of the second clamping member 120 is depicted. In some examples, the second clamping member 120 includes a base portion 138, a raised portion 140, and an intermediate portion 142 extending between the raised portion 140 and the base portion 138. The second clamping member 120 further includes a second set of engaging members 144 coupled to a top surface 146 of the raised portion 140. In some examples, each engaging member of the second set of engaging members 144 has a profile complementary to the profile of the free-suspension portion 168 of the retainer member of the second set of retainer members 108. In some examples, each engaging member of the second set of engaging members 144 is a protrusion extending from the top surface 146 of the raised portion 140. The second clamping member 120 further includes complementary guide structures 148, such as a pair of protrusions 152 coupled to a bottom surface 150 of the base portion 138.

[0045] Refer to the attached diagram. Figure 3DAn enlarged perspective view of an electronic plug 300, such as a USB plug 300A, is depicted. The electronic plug 300 includes a connector 302, a communication cable 304, and one or more electrical conductors 308 (see [reference]). Figure 2A Connector 302 and communication cable 304 are held together by a molded portion 306 of electronic plug 300. The molded portion 306 may further insulate one or more electrical conductors 308 of connector 302 from the surrounding environment. It should be noted herein that, for ease of illustration, communication cable 304 and molded portion 306 are not shown in the image. Figures 2A to 2C The examples shown, and the fact that the communication cable 304 and the molded portion 306 are not illustrated, should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure. In one or more examples, the connector 302 is a standardized component of the electronic plug 300. One or more electrical conductors 308 are electrically connected to the connector 302 and the chords (not shown) of the communication cable 304. The connector 302 may be a hollow component configured to receive a complementary connector 176 of the socket 102 when the electronic plug 300 is inserted into the electronic port 100. In such an example, one or more electrical conductors 162 disposed in the socket 102 may be electrically connected to one or more electrical conductors 308 of the connector 302 in an installed state where the electronic plug 300 is mounted in the electronic port 100, so as to communicatively connect the communication cable 304 to the circuit board 204. In some examples, the connector 302 includes a first set of recesses 310 formed on the top surface 312 and a second set of recesses 314 formed on the bottom surface 316 of the connector 302 (see Figure 2C Top surface 312 and bottom surface 316 are opposite surfaces of connector 302. In one or more examples, when electronic plug 300 is inserted into electronic port 100, the first set of recesses 310 aligns with the first set of retainer members 106, and the second set of recesses 314 aligns with the second set of retainer members 108. Accordingly, the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 engage with the first set of recesses 310 and the second set of recesses 314, respectively, and releasably retain connector 302 of electronic plug 300 to socket 102 of electronic port 100.

[0046] Return to the attached reference diagram ( Figures 2B to 2CCircuit board 204 is housed within and coupled to housing 202. Support element 160 of socket 102 extends through slot 218 of circuit board 204 to physically couple socket 102 to circuit board 204. Furthermore, one or more electrical conductors 162 of socket 102 extend through one or more openings of circuit board 204 to electrically connect to traces formed in substrate 214 of circuit board 204. Additionally, a pair of protrusions 152 of second clamping member 120 are disposed in a pair of apertures 136 of first clamping member 118 to guide movement of second clamping member 120 relative to first clamping member 118 along an axis (e.g., vertical axis 50) and to movably couple second clamping member 120 to first clamping member 118, thereby defining clamping module 114. The clamping module 114 is further disposed on the housing 202 such that a pair of orifices 136 of the first clamping member 118 are aligned with a pair of second orifices 212 of the housing 202, and the opening 132 of the first clamping member 118 is aligned with the second opening 210 of the housing 202. In such an example, a pair of protrusions 152 of the second clamping member 120 further protrude into the pair of second orifices 212 of the housing 202 to further movably couple the second clamping member 120 to the housing 202. In such an example, the top surface 139 of the base portion 138 of the second clamping member 120 is disposed parallel to the circuit board 204 of the electronic device 200. Furthermore, a fastener 116 extends into the volume of the housing 202 via the second opening 210. The fastener 116 is further actuated along a first actuation direction 30 (e.g., counterclockwise) into an opening 132 in the first clamping member 118, such that the reverse thread in the fastener 116 engages with the thread in the opening 132 to movably couple the fastener 116 to the first clamping member 118 until the end 158 of the fastener 116 contacts the second clamping member 120, thereby defining the locking assembly 104. Furthermore, the first clamping member 118 and the second clamping member 120 are positioned around the socket 102 such that the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 are disposed on opposite sides of the socket 102 and aligned with the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108, respectively, thereby defining the electronic port 100. Since the socket 102 is physically coupled to the circuit board 204 of the electronic device 200, the first clamping member 118 can be seated on the socket 102 due to gravity, such that the first set of engaging members 130 of the first clamping member 118 is movably engaged with the first set of retainer members 106 of the socket 102. However, the second clamping member 120 can be seated on the end 158 of the fastener 116, such that the second set of engaging members 144 of the second clamping member 120 is disengaged from the second set of retainer members 108 of the socket 102. In other words, the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 are separated by a second spacing distance “D2” (see [reference]). Figure 2C).

[0047] Furthermore, the electronic plug 300 is connected to the electronic port 100. Specifically, the connector 302 of the electronic plug 300 is inserted into the socket 102 of the electronic port 100. In such an example, the first set of retainer members 106 moves along the second direction 20 and the second set of retainer members 108 moves along the first direction 10 (when the connector 302 contacts the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108) to allow the connector 302 to be inserted into the socket 102. Since the second set of engaging members 144 does not engage with the second set of retainer members 108, the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 do not constrain the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 to prevent the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 from moving along the second direction 20 and the first direction 10 respectively, thus allowing the connector 302 to be inserted into the socket 102. Subsequently, the first set of retainer members 106 moves along the first direction 10 to engage with the first set of recesses 310, and the second set of retainer members 108 moves along the second direction 20 to engage with the second set of recesses 314, thereby releasably securing the connector 302 to the socket 102. Thus, in one or more examples, the unsecured clamping module 114 allows the electronic plug 300 to connect to the electronic port 100.

[0048] Figure 4A A description is provided of an electronic plug 300 that is connected to the electronic port 100 and maintained in a secure state. Figure 2A A 3D view of the assembled electronic device 200. Figure 4B Depicting along Figure 4A The line 2-2' is cut off and has an electronic port 100 that transitions from a non-fastened state to a fastened state. Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the electronic device. In the following description, for ease of explanation, [the following text is also included]. Figures 4A to 4B It has been described.

[0049] In some examples, the fastener 116 further moves along a first actuation direction 30 to change the clamping module 114 from an unfastened state to a fastened state. In such an example, when the fastener 116 is actuated along the first actuation direction 30, the fastener 116 moves the second clamping member 120 along a second direction 20 until the first set of engaging members 130 engages with the first set of retainer members 106, the second set of engaging members 144 engages with the second set of retainer members 108, and the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 are separated by a first gap distance “D1”. In such an example, the fastener 116 can be actuated until the top surface 139 in the base portion 138 of the second clamping member 120 abuts the circuit board 204 and the head 154 of the fastener 116 abuts the housing 202. In one or more examples, fastener 116 constrains first clamping member 118 and second clamping member 120 to maintain a first gap distance “D1” between first set of engaging members 130 and second set of engaging members 144, thereby preventing movement of first set of retainer members 106 and second retainer members 108 that would release the electronic plug 300 from electronic port 100. As discussed herein, fastener 116 includes a threaded member 116A and an end 158 of the threaded member 116A that engages threadedly in an opening 132 of the first clamping member 118 to drive translation of the threaded member 116A relative to the first clamping member 118 along an axis (e.g., vertical axis 50) in response to rotation of the threaded member 116A, and the end of the threaded member contacts the second clamping member 120 in response to movement of the threaded member 116A along the vertical axis 50 to drive movement of the second clamping member 120 relative to the first clamping member 118 along the vertical axis 50. Therefore, in the tightened state, the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 engage the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 respectively, and prevent the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 from releasing the connector 302 from the socket 102.

[0050] In some examples, a reference is returned. Figure 2CThe fastener 116 further moves along the second actuation direction 40 (e.g., clockwise) to change the clamping module 114 from a tightened state back to an untightened state. In such an example, when the fastener 116 is actuated along the second actuation direction 40, the fastener 116 allows the second clamping member 120 to move along the first direction 10 (e.g., by gravity) until the second set of engaging members 144 disengages from the second set of retainer members 108 and the first set of engaging members 130 and the second set of engaging members 144 are separated by a second gap distance "D2" greater than the first gap distance "D1", thereby allowing the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 to move to release the electronic plug 300 from the electronic port 100. Accordingly, in the untightened state, the second set of engaging members 144 disengages from the second set of retainer members 108 and allows the first set of retainer members 106 and the second set of retainer members 108 to release the connector 302 from the socket 102.

[0051] Figure 5A A block diagram depicts the electronic port 500 maintained in an unsecured state. Figure 5B It depicts the transition from a tightened state to a tightened state. Figure 5A A block diagram of the electronic port 500. In the following description, for ease of explanation, and also... Figures 4A to 4B It has been described.

[0052] Electronic port 500 includes a socket 502 and a locking assembly 504. In some examples, the socket 502 includes a first set of retainer members 506 and a second set of retainer members 508. The first set of retainer members 506 is formed on a first surface 510 of the socket 502, and the second set of retainer members 508 is formed on a second surface 512 of the socket 502 opposite to the first surface 510. The locking assembly 504 includes a clamping module 514 and a fastener 516. The clamping module 514 includes a first clamping member 518 and a second clamping member 520. The first clamping member 518 is defined by a top wall 522, a bottom wall 524, and a pair of side walls 526, which are coupled to each other to define a space 528 therebetween. In some examples, the top wall 522 of the first clamping member 518 includes an opening 532 and guide members 534, such as a pair of protrusions 536, and the bottom wall 524 of the first clamping member 518 includes a first set of engaging members 530. Similarly, the second clamping member 520 includes a raised portion 540 having a second set of engaging members 544, a base portion 538 having a second guide member 548 (e.g., a pair of orifices 552), and an intermediate portion connecting the base portion 538 to the raised portion 540. In some examples, the second clamping member 520 is disposed in a space 528 and movably coupled to the first clamping member 518. For example, a pair of protrusions 536 extend into a pair of orifices 552 to movably couple the second clamping member 520 to the first clamping member 518. Furthermore, the clamping module 514 is disposed around the socket 502 such that the socket 502 is positioned in the space 528, and the first set of engaging members 530 and the second set of engaging members 544 are disposed on opposite sides of the socket 502 and aligned with the first set of retainer members 506 and the second set of retainer members 508, respectively. In one or more examples, a fastener 516 is movably coupled to the clamping module 514. For example, fastener 516 extends into opening 532 formed in the top wall 522 of first clamping member 518 until end 558 of fastener 516 contacts second clamping member 520 to be movably coupled to clamping module 514. In one or more examples, fastener 516 is configured to, when actuated, move first clamping member 518 relative to socket 502 to fasten clamping module 514 (see [link to example]). Figure 5B ) and the loose state (see Figure 5A The transition between ) and ). Figures 5A to 5B In the example, the second clamping member 520 sits on the socket 502 due to gravity, such that the second set of engaging members 544 is movably engaged with the second set of retainer members 508.

[0053] Furthermore, the fastener 516 is actuated along the second actuation direction 40 (e.g., clockwise) to change the clamping module 514 from an unfastened state to a fastened state. Figures 5A to 5BIn the example, when the fastener 516 is actuated along the second actuation direction 40, in response to the movement of the fastener 516 along the vertical axis 50, the fastener 516 can drive the second clamping member 520 to move relative to the first clamping member 518 along the vertical axis 50. In such an example, the fastener 516 drives the first clamping member 518 along the second direction 20 until the first set of engaging members 530 engages with the first set of retainer members 506, the second set of engaging members 544 engages with the second set of retainer members 508, and the first set of engaging members 530 and the second set of engaging members 544 are separated by a first interval distance "D1". Accordingly, when the fastener 516 is actuated along the second actuation direction 40, the clamping module 514 changes from an unfastened state to a fastened state. In other words, when the fastener 516 is actuated along the second actuation direction 40, the second clamping member 520 remains stationary, while the first clamping member 518 moves along the second direction 20 to change the clamping module 514 from an unfastened state to a fastened state. In such an example, the first clamping member 518 and the second clamping member 520 are constrained by the fastener 516 to maintain a first gap distance "D1" between the first set of engaging members 530 and the second set of engaging members 544, respectively, and thereby prevent the first set of retainer members 506 and the second set of retainer members 508 from moving and causing the electronic plug to be released from the electronic port 500.

[0054] Similarly, fastener 516 is actuated along a first actuation direction 30 (e.g., counterclockwise) to change clamping module 514 from a tightened state to an untightened state. Figures 5A to 5B In the example, when the fastener 516 is actuated along the first actuation direction 30, the fastener 516 can move the first clamping member 518 along the first direction 10 until the first set of engaging members 530 and the second set of engaging members 544 are separated by a second gap distance "D2" greater than the first gap distance "D1". This allows the first set of retainer members 506 and the second set of retainer members 508 to move to release the electronic plug from the electronic port 500. In other words, the second clamping member 520 can remain stationary, while the first clamping member 518 can move along the first direction 10 to change the clamping module 514 from a fastened state to an unfastened state. As discussed herein, the fastener 516 includes a threaded element 516A that is threadedly engaged in the opening 532 of the first clamping member 518 and an end 558 of the threaded element 516A that contacts the second clamping member 520 to drive the first clamping member 518 relative to the second clamping member 520 along the vertical axis 50 in response to movement of the threaded element 516A along the vertical axis 50.

[0055] In one or more examples, in the unclamped state, the second set of engaging members 544 is movably engaged with the second set of retainer members 508, while the first set of engaging members 530 is not engaged with the first set of retainer members 506, and the first clamping member 518 and the second clamping member 520 are separated by a second spacing distance “D2”. Therefore, in the unclamped state, the first clamping member 518 may not constrain the second clamping member 520, thereby allowing the second set of engaging members 144 to move along the second direction 20 when the second retainer members 508 bend along the second direction 20 to release the connector from the socket 502.

[0056] Figure 6 A flowchart depicts a method 600 for locking an electronic plug to an electronic port using a locking component of the electronic port. It should be noted herein that method 600 is combined with, for example... Figures 1A to 1B , Figures 2A to 2C , Figures 3A to 3D and Figures 4A to 4B The description. Method 600 begins at box 602 and continues to box 604.

[0057] At block 604, method 600 includes inserting a connector of an electronic plug into a receptacle of an electronic port to connect the electronic plug to the electronic port, wherein the receptacle includes a first set of retainer members and a second set of retainer members to releasably hold the connector. In some examples, the electronic port further includes a locking assembly having: a clamping module and a fastener, the clamping module including a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the first clamping member having a first set of engaging members, the second clamping member being movably coupled to the first clamping member and having a second set of engaging members, the fastener being movably coupled to the clamping module and configured to transition the clamping module between a tightened state and an untightened state. Method 600 continues to block 606.

[0058] At block 606, method 600 includes actuating a fastener along a first actuation direction to transfer the clamping module to a secured state by moving a second clamping member relative to a first clamping member and relative to a socket, such that a first set of engaging members engages a first set of retainer members and a second set of engaging members engages a second set of retainer members, and preventing movement of the first and second sets of retainer members to release the electronic plug from the electronic port. Method 600 continues to block 608.

[0059] At block 608, method 600 further includes actuating the fastener along the second actuation direction to transfer the clamping module to an unfastened state by moving the second clamping member to disengage the second set of engaging members from the second set of retainer members and unlocking the electronic plug from the electronic port. Method 600 ends at block 610.

[0060] Because the engaging members are configured to engage with internal components (e.g., the retainer members of the socket) to prevent release of the connector of the electronic plug, this locking assembly occupies significantly less space in the electronic device compared to an external locking device used to secure the USB plug. Accordingly, the locking assembly with this simple design can be standalone and does not require additional components outside the USB port, thus allowing for a considerably low cost for securing removable electronic modules within the electronic device. Furthermore, since both the first and second sets of retainer members are engaged by the first and second sets of engaging members of the locking assembly, the amount of force required to forcibly remove (or steal) the removable electronic device from the electronic device can be considerably high, for example, greater than 130N (which can be greater than the average force a person can apply), thereby securing the USB plug to the USB port.

[0061] In the foregoing description, numerous details have been set forth to provide an understanding of the subject matter disclosed herein. However, embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these details. Other embodiments may include modifications, combinations, and variations of the details discussed above. The appended claims are intended to cover such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. An electronic port, comprising: a socket comprising a first set of retainer members on a first face of the socket and a second set of retainer members on a second face of the socket, the second face being opposite the first face, the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members being configured to releasably retain a connector of an electronic plug; as well as A locking assembly, the locking assembly comprising: a clamping module comprising a first clamping member having a first set of engagement members and a second clamping member movably coupled to the first clamping member and having a second set of engagement members, wherein the first set of engagement members and the second set of engagement members are disposed on opposite sides of the receptacle and are aligned with the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members, respectively; and a fastener movably coupled to the clamping module, wherein the fastener is configured to transition the clamping module between a fastened state and an unfastened state by moving the first clamping member and / or the second clamping member relative to the receptacle when actuated, wherein in the unfastened state, the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members are allowed to release the connector, and Wherein in the secured state, the first and second sets of engagement members engage the first and second sets of retainer members, respectively, and prevent the first and second sets of retainer members from releasing the connector.

2. The electronic port of claim 1, wherein the fastener is actuatable in a first actuation direction to transition the clamping module to the secured state by: moving the first clamping member in a first direction and / or moving the second clamping member in a second direction opposite the first direction until the first set of engagement members engages the first set of retainer members, the second set of engagement members engages the second set of retainer members, and the first set of engagement members and the second set of engagement members are separated by a first spacing distance; and The first and second clamping members are constrained to maintain the first spacing distance between the first and second sets of engagement members to prevent the first and second sets of retainer members from moving to release the electronic plug from the electronic port.

3. An electronic port according to claim 2, wherein the fastener is capable of being actuated in a second actuation direction to transform the clamping module to the unfastened state by: moving the first clamping member along the second direction and / or moving the second clamping member along the first direction until the first group of engaging members and the second group of engaging members are separated by a second spacing distance greater than the first spacing distance, thereby allowing the first group of retaining members and the second group of retaining members to move to release the electronic plug from the electronic port.

4. The electronic port of claim 1, wherein the first clamping member comprises: a top wall disposed above the first face of the receptacle, the first set of engagement members being coupled to the top wall and facing the first set of retainer members; a bottom wall disposed below the second side of the receptacle and including an opening through which the fastener extends to removably couple the fastener to the clamping module; as well as A pair of support walls extend between the bottom wall and the top wall to define a space between the bottom wall and the top wall, the socket and the second clamping member being positioned in the space.

5. An electronic port according to claim 4, wherein the first clamping member includes a guide structure, which engages with the second clamping member to guide the movement of the second clamping member along the axis relative to the first clamping member and movably couples the second clamping member to the first clamping member.

6. The electronic port of claim 5, wherein the guide structure comprises a pair of apertures located on one of the top wall or the bottom wall of the first clamping member, and the second clamping member comprises a pair of protrusions extending into the pair of apertures.

7. The electronic port of claim 4, wherein the second clamping member comprises: a base portion having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being parallel to a circuit board of the electronic device; a raised portion having a top surface that is raised relative to the top surface of the base portion and disposed below and parallel to the second face of the socket, the second set of engagement members being coupled to the top surface of the raised portion and facing the second set of retainer members; a middle portion extending between the raised portion and the base portion; as well as A pair of protrusions are coupled to the bottom surface of the base portion, wherein in the secured state the circuit board abuts the top surface of the base portion.

8. An electronic port according to claim 4, wherein the fastener includes a threaded member and an end of the threaded member, the threaded member engaging with a thread in an opening of the first clamping member to drive the threaded member to translate along a vertical axis relative to the first clamping member in response to rotation of the threaded member, and the end of the threaded member is used to contact the second clamping member in response to movement of the threaded member along the vertical axis to drive movement of the second clamping member along the vertical axis relative to the first clamping member.

9. An electronic port according to claim 4, wherein the fastener includes a threaded member and an end of the threaded member, the threaded member is engaged with a thread in an opening of the first clamping member, and the end of the threaded member contacts the second clamping member in response to movement of the threaded member along a vertical axis to drive the first clamping member to move relative to the second clamping member along the vertical axis.

10. The electronic port of claim 1, wherein the electronic port is a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port.

11. An electronic device, comprising: shell; one or more circuit boards housed within and coupled to the housing; an electronic port coupled to one of the circuit boards, the electronic port comprising: a socket configured to receive an electronic plug of a communication cable, the socket comprising a first set of retainer members on a first face of the socket and a second set of retainer members on a second face of the socket, the second face being opposite the first face, wherein the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members of the socket are configured to releasably retain a connector of the electronic plug in an installed state of the electronic plug to the electronic port; one or more electrical conductors disposed in the receptacle and configured to electrically connect with a connector of the electronic plug when the electronic plug is installed in the electronic port to communicatively connect the communication cable to one of the circuit boards; and A locking assembly, the locking assembly comprising: a clamping module comprising a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the first clamping member having a first set of engagement members, the second clamping member being movably coupled to the first clamping member and the housing and having a second set of engagement members, wherein the first set of engagement members and the second set of engagement members are disposed on opposite sides of the socket and are aligned with the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members, respectively; and a fastener movably coupled to the clamping module, wherein the fastener when actuated transitions the clamping module between a fastened state and an unfastened state by moving at least the second clamping member relative to the receptacle, wherein in the unfastened state, the first set of engagement members and the second set of engagement members allow the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members to release the connector, and Wherein in the secured state, the first and second sets of engagement members engage the first and second sets of retainer members, respectively, and prevent the first and second sets of retainer members from releasing the connector.

12. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the fastener is actuatable in a first actuation direction to transform the clamping module into the fastened state by: moving the first clamping member in a first direction and / or moving the second clamping member in a second direction opposite the first direction until the first set of engagement members engages the first set of retainer members, the second set of engagement members engages the second set of retainer members, and the first set of engagement members and the second set of engagement members are separated by a first spacing distance; and The first and second clamping members are constrained to maintain the first spacing distance between the first and second sets of engagement members to prevent the first and second sets of retainer members from moving to release the electronic plug from the electronic port.

13. An electronic device according to claim 12, wherein the fastener is capable of actuating in a second actuation direction to transform the clamping module to the unfastened state by: moving the first clamping member along the second direction and / or moving the second clamping member along the first direction until the first group of engaging members and the second group of engaging members are separated by a second spacing distance greater than the first spacing distance, thereby allowing the first group of retainer members and the second group of retainer members to move to release the electronic plug from the electronic port.

14. The electronic device according to claim 11, wherein the first clamping member comprises: a top wall disposed above the first face of the receptacle, the first set of engagement members being coupled to the top wall and facing the first set of retainer members; a bottom wall disposed below the second side of the receptacle and including an opening through which the fastener extends to removably couple the fastener to the clamping module; as well as A pair of support walls extend between the bottom wall and the top wall to define a space between the bottom wall and the top wall, the socket and the second clamping member being positioned in the space.

15. An electronic device according to claim 14, wherein the first clamping member includes a guide structure, and the housing includes a second guide structure aligned with the guide structure, and wherein the guide structure and the second guide structure engage with the second clamping member to guide the movement of the second clamping member along an axis relative to the first clamping member and the housing, and to movably couple the second clamping member to the first clamping member and the housing.

16. An electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the guide structure includes a pair of openings located in one of the top wall or the bottom wall of the first clamping member, wherein the second guide structure includes a pair of second openings, and wherein the second clamping member includes a pair of protrusions extending into the pair of openings and the pair of second openings.

17. The electronic device according to claim 14, wherein the second clamping member comprises: a base portion having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being parallel to one of the circuit boards; a raised portion having a top surface that is raised relative to the top surface of the base portion and disposed below and parallel to the second face of the socket, the second set of engagement members being coupled to the top surface of the raised portion and facing the second set of retainer members; a middle portion extending between the raised portion and the base portion; as well as A pair of protrusions are coupled to the bottom surface of the base portion, wherein in the secured state one of the circuit boards abuts the top surface of the base portion.

18. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the electronic port is a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port and the electronic plug is a USB plug.

19. A method comprising: inserting a connector of an electronic plug into a socket of an electronic port to connect the electronic plug to the electronic port, wherein the socket includes a first set of retainer members and a second set of retainer members to releasably retain the connector, wherein the electronic port further comprises a locking assembly, the locking assembly comprising: a clamping module and a fastener, the clamping module comprising a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the first clamping member having a first set of engagement members, the second clamping member being movably coupled to the first clamping member and having a second set of engagement members, the fastener being movably coupled to the clamping module and configured to transition the clamping module between a fastened state and an unfastened state; and The fastener is actuated along a first actuation direction to transition the clamp module to the secured state by moving the second clamp member relative to the first clamp member and relative to the socket to engage the first set of engagement members with the first set of retainer members and the second set of engagement members with the second set of retainer members, and preventing the first set of retainer members and the second set of retainer members from moving to release the electronic plug from the electronic port.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising actuating the fastener along a second actuation direction to transition the clamping module to the unfastened state by moving the second clamping member to disengage the second set of engagement members from the second set of retainer members and unlocking the electronic plug from the electronic port.

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