Interface structure and electronic device

Abstract

The application provides an interface structure and an electronic device, and relates to the technical field of electronic devices. The interface structure comprises a body and a recognition pin. The body is made of metal, and the body has a containing space. The containing space is used for at least partially containing a first connector so that the first connector is inserted into the body, or is used for at least partially containing a second connector so that the second connector is inserted into the body. The recognition pin has a connecting end and a recognition end. The connecting end is connected to a first side wall on one side of the body and is insulated from the body. The recognition end is made of conductive material and protrudes towards the containing space relative to the first side wall. When the first connector is inserted into the body, the first connector and the recognition end satisfy a contact relationship. When the second connector is inserted into the body, the second connector and the recognition end satisfy a non-contact relationship. The first connector and the second connector are different.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic equipment technology, and in particular to an interface structure and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic devices are typically equipped with multiple interfaces to support different types of connectors. However, multiple interfaces take up space in the electronic device layout and increase manufacturing costs. When users connect different types of connectors, they need to insert them accordingly. There are situations where they cannot insert the connector and have to search for the interface repeatedly, or where incorrect insertion can lead to safety hazards and affect the user experience. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this application is to provide an interface structure and an electronic device, the technical solution of which is as follows:

[0004] The first aspect of this application provides an interface structure, including:

[0005] The main body is made of metal and has a storage space.

[0006] The accommodating space is used to at least partially accommodate the first connector so that the first connector can be inserted into the body, or to at least partially accommodate the second connector so that the second connector can be inserted into the body;

[0007] The identification pin has a connecting end and an identification end. The connecting end is connected to the first sidewall of the body and is insulated relative to the body. The identification end is made of conductive material and protrudes towards the accommodating space relative to the first sidewall.

[0008] When the first connector is inserted into the body, it maintains contact with the identification end.

[0009] When the second connector is inserted into the body, it maintains a non-contact relationship with the identification end.

[0010] The first connector and the second connector are different.

[0011] In some embodiments, the aforementioned interface structure includes an identification pin comprising a first insulating segment and a conductive segment connected to each other, the first insulating segment being connected to a first sidewall, and the conductive segment being spaced apart from the first sidewall and connected to the first insulating segment; a connection end is disposed on the first insulating segment, and an identification end is disposed on the conductive segment.

[0012] In some embodiments, the aforementioned interface structure includes a groove on the first sidewall, the groove having a first groove sidewall and a groove bottom wall, the groove bottom wall being parallel to the first sidewall and the first groove sidewall being perpendicular to the first sidewall; a connecting end being connected to the first groove sidewall, and a conductive segment at least partially protruding from the groove and spaced from the groove bottom wall; both the first insulating segment and the conductive segment being elastic; when the first connector is inserted into the body, it is in contact with the identification end, the conductive segment is pushed against and causes the first insulating segment to undergo elastic deformation, and the conductive segment pushes against and connects to the groove bottom wall.

[0013] In some embodiments, the aforementioned interface structure includes a first insulating segment parallel to the bottom wall of the groove, a connecting end located at the first end of the first insulating segment and connected to the side wall of the first groove, and a conductive segment connected to the second end of the first insulating segment.

[0014] In some embodiments, the aforementioned interface structure includes a V-shaped conductive segment, one end of which is connected to the second end of the first insulating segment, and at least part of the middle portion of the V-shaped conductive segment protruding from the groove.

[0015] In some embodiments, the aforementioned interface structure further includes a second insulating segment for identifying pins, the second insulating segment being parallel to the bottom wall of the groove; the groove having a second groove sidewall opposite to the first groove sidewall, a first end of the second insulating segment having another connecting end connected to the second groove sidewall, and a second segment of the second insulating segment being connected to the side of the conductive segment opposite to the first insulating segment.

[0016] In some embodiments, the aforementioned interface structure, wherein the identification pin is located in the target area of ​​the first sidewall in the thickness direction of the body, and the target area is offset relative to the middle of the first sidewall in the thickness direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, the aforementioned interface structure further includes: an elastic limiting structure, the elastic limiting structure being movably connected to the first sidewall at a distance from the identification pin; when the first connector or the second connector is inserted into the body, the elastic limiting structure elastically deforms toward the first sidewall and generates an elastic restoring force, the elastic restoring force being used to limit the first connector or the second connector within the accommodating space.

[0018] In some embodiments, the aforementioned interface structure includes two elastic limiting structures, which are respectively movably connected to the first sidewall and the second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall of the body; when the first connector or the second connector is inserted into the body, the two elastic limiting structures elastically deform toward the first sidewall and the second sidewall respectively and generate an elastic restoring force, which is used to limit the first connector or the second connector within the accommodating space.

[0019] A second aspect of this application provides an electronic device, comprising:

[0020] Control module;

[0021] The interface structure enables the first connector to connect to the control module when the first connector is inserted, and enables the second connector to connect to the control module when the second connector is inserted.

[0022] The interface structure includes:

[0023] The main body is made of metal and has a storage space.

[0024] The accommodating space is used to at least partially accommodate the first connector so that the first connector can be inserted into the body, or to at least partially accommodate the second connector so that the second connector can be inserted into the body;

[0025] The identification pin has a connecting end and an identification end. The connecting end is connected to the first sidewall of the body and is insulated relative to the body. The identification end is made of conductive material and protrudes towards the accommodating space relative to the first sidewall.

[0026] When the first connector is inserted into the body, it maintains contact with the identification end.

[0027] When the second connector is inserted into the body, it maintains a non-contact relationship with the identification end.

[0028] The first connector and the second connector are different.

[0029] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, the preferred embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0031] Figure 1 This illustration schematically shows an isometric structural diagram of an interface structure provided in this application;

[0032] Figure 2 This schematic diagram illustrates a front view of an interface structure provided in this application.

[0033] Figure 3 This schematically illustrates an isometric view of the first connector into which an interface structure provided in this application can be inserted;

[0034] Figure 4 This schematically illustrates an isometric view of the second connector into which an interface structure provided in this application can be inserted;

[0035] Figure 5 A partial structural diagram of an interface structure provided in this application is shown schematically;

[0036] Figure 6 This schematic diagram illustrates the structure of the identification pins and grooves of an interface structure provided in this application;

[0037] Figure 7 This schematic diagram illustrates the structure of the identification pins and grooves of another interface structure provided in this application;

[0038] Figure 8 The isometric view of the interface structure with two elastic limiting structures provided in this application is shown schematically.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0040] 1. Body; 11. Accommodating space; 12. First sidewall; 13. Second sidewall; 121. Groove; 1211. First groove sidewall; 1212. Groove bottom wall; 1213. Second groove sidewall;

[0041] 2. Identification pin; 21. First insulating section; 22. Conductive section; 23. Second insulating section; 211. Connecting end; 221. Identification end;

[0042] 3. Elastic limiting structure;

[0043] 4. First connector;

[0044] 5. Second connector. Detailed Implementation

[0045] The embodiments of this disclosure will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawings are used to illustrate the principles of this disclosure by way of example, but should not be used to limit the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

[0046] These embodiments are provided to make the disclosure thorough and complete, and to fully express the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of components and steps, material composition, numerical expressions, and values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as exemplary only and not as limiting.

[0047] It should be noted that, in the description of this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationship, are only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0048] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. "Vertical" is not strictly vertical, but within the permissible margin of error. "Parallel" is not strictly parallel, but within the permissible margin of error. Terms such as "including" or "contains" mean that the element preceding the word encompasses the element listed after the word, and do not exclude the possibility of encompassing other elements as well.

[0049] It should also be noted that, in the description of this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure depending on the specific circumstances. When a particular device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intermediary device may or may not be present between the particular device and the first or second device.

[0050] All terms used in this disclosure have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in general dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the relevant art, and not as idealized or highly formalized, unless expressly defined herein.

[0051] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, they should be considered part of the specification.

[0052] Example 1

[0053] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the first aspect of this application provides an interface structure including a body 1 and identification pins 2; the body 1 is made of metal and has a receiving space 11; the receiving space 11 is used to at least partially receive a first connector 4 so that the first connector 4 can be inserted into the body 1, or to at least partially receive a second connector 5 so that the second connector 5 can be inserted into the body 1; the identification pins 2 have a connecting end 211 and an identification end 221, the connecting end 211 is connected to a first sidewall 12 on one side of the body 1 and is insulated relative to the body 1, the identification end 221 is made of conductive material and protrudes towards the receiving space 11 relative to the first sidewall 12; when the first connector 4 is inserted into the body 1, it has a contact relationship with the identification end 221; when the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1, it has a non-contact relationship with the identification end 221; wherein, the first connector 4 and the second connector 5 are different.

[0054] Specifically, the interface structure includes a conductive body 1 with a accommodating space 11. The body 1 is made of metal and serves as a supporting frame for the interface structure, providing a grounding connection and a reference point. The body 1 can be made of stainless steel, aluminum alloy, brass, etc., and can be plated with nickel or gold to improve conductivity and oxidation resistance; the specific material is not limited. The accommodating space 11 within the body 1 can adapt to and accommodate at least part of the structure of the first connector 4 or the second connector 5, allowing both different types of connectors to be inserted into the same body 1. This breaks through the limitation of traditional one-to-one interfaces, allowing users to complete connection operations without distinguishing interface types. Especially in space-constrained applications such as portable electronic devices, docking stations, and all-in-one machines, the interface structure provided in this application effectively reduces the number of interfaces, optimizes device layout, and improves space utilization efficiency. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for corresponding insertions or re-finding of interfaces, avoiding connection failures or conversion problems caused by interface incompatibility, thus improving the user experience.

[0055] The interface structure also includes identification pins 2, comprising a connection terminal 211 and an identification terminal 221. The connection terminal 211 is electrically insulated from the conductive body 1, allowing the identification pins 2 to form an independent signal path. Their voltage level is unaffected by the position of the body 1, ensuring accurate and reliable transmission of the detection signal to the control module of the electronic device. The connection terminal 211 can be made of insulating materials such as plastic or ceramic, or it can be a metal substrate coated with insulating varnish such as epoxy resin, polyurethane, or silicone resin; the specific type is not limited.

[0056] The identification end 221 is made of conductive material, such as phosphor bronze, beryllium copper, alloy steel, or elastic alloy steel. It can be plated with nickel or gold to improve conductivity and oxidation resistance; the specific material is not limited. The identification end 221 protrudes into the accommodating space 11, allowing for different contact and non-contact states when the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1. This enables the identification of the inserted connector type solely through mechanical contact, achieving automatic identification of different connector types through a single interface. This provides a basis for electronic devices to switch protocols and manage power based on different connector types, reducing the complexity of connector identification and avoiding safety hazards caused by incorrect insertion.

[0057] The interface structure provided in this application allows for the insertion of a first connector 4 and a second connector 5 that are fundamentally different in geometric shape. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the first connector 4 is a DP (DisplayPort) and the second connector 5 is an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface). The DP connector adopts a single-sided bevel design, with the other side being a straight edge that is inserted along the first sidewall 12 of the interface structure of this application. When the DP connector, acting as the first connector 4, is inserted into the receiving space 11, the straight edge abuts against the identification pin 221 protruding from the receiving space 11. The identification pin 221 forms a GND (Ground) conductive path through the body 1, and the truth table is 0, indicating that the inserted connector is a DP connector. Since the HDMI connector adopts a double-sided symmetrical bevel design, when it is inserted into the receiving space 11, it maintains a non-contact relationship with the identification pin 221, and the truth table is 1, indicating that the inserted connector is an HDMI connector. The control module of the electronic device reads the truth table above (0 or 1) and generates a low or high level to distinguish between DP and HDMI insertion. It can also send a mode switching command to the HDMI to DP chip set in the electronic device, so that the chip switches to the corresponding DP or HDMI receiving mode to achieve communication connection matching of the connector.

[0058] The first aspect of this application provides an interface structure, including a body 1 and identification pins 2; the body 1 is made of metal and has a receiving space 11; the receiving space 11 is used to at least partially receive a first connector 4 so that the first connector 4 can be inserted into the body 1, or to at least partially receive a second connector 5 so that the second connector 5 can be inserted into the body 1; the identification pins 2 have a connecting end 211 and an identification end 221, the connecting end 211 is connected to a first sidewall 12 on one side of the body 1 and is insulated relative to the body 1, the identification end 221 is made of conductive material and protrudes towards the receiving space 11 relative to the first sidewall 12; when the first connector 4 is inserted into the body 1, it has a contact relationship with the identification end 221; when the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1, it has a non-contact relationship with the identification end 221; wherein, the first connector 4 and the second connector 5 are different. The interface structure provided in this application allows the first connector 4 and the second connector 5 to be shared, eliminating the need for corresponding insertions or re-searching for interfaces. This avoids connection failures or conversion problems caused by interface incompatibility, improving user experience. Simultaneously, an identification pin 2 is provided, with its connection end 211 electrically insulated from the conductive body 1, forming an independent signal path. Its voltage level is unaffected by the position of the body 1, ensuring accurate and reliable transmission of the detection signal to the control module of the electronic device. The identification end 221 protrudes towards the accommodating space 11, allowing for different contact and non-contact states when the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1. This enables the identification of the inserted connector type solely through mechanical contact, achieving automatic identification of different connector types through a single interface. This provides a basis for electronic devices to switch protocols and manage power based on different connector types, reducing the complexity of connector identification and avoiding safety hazards caused by incorrect insertion. Through the application of this application, the technical problems of requiring users to insert different types of connectors, resulting in situations where incorrect insertion leads to repeated interface searches and safety hazards, negatively impacting user experience, are resolved.

[0059] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the identification pin 2 includes a first insulating segment 21 and a conductive segment 22 connected to each other. The first insulating segment 21 is connected to the first sidewall 12, and the conductive segment 22 is spaced apart from the first sidewall 12 and connected to the first insulating segment 21. The connection end 211 is disposed on the first insulating segment 21, and the identification end 221 is disposed on the conductive segment 22.

[0060] Specifically, the identification pin 2 includes a first insulating section 21 and a conductive section 22 connected to each other. The first insulating section 21 serves as the connection point between the identification pin 2 and the side wall of the body 1. Through its insulation characteristics, it ensures that the connection end 211 and the conductive body 1 are electrically isolated, so that the identification pin 2 forms an independent signal path, avoiding the failure of the detection signal due to short circuit with the body 1, and ensuring that the detection signal is accurately and reliably transmitted to the control module of the electronic device.

[0061] The conductive segment 22 is spaced apart from the first sidewall 12 and connected to the first insulating segment 21 to form a cantilever structure. The identification end 221 is disposed on the conductive segment 22. In one embodiment, when a DP connector with a single-sided bevel design is inserted into the accommodating space 11, the straight side abuts against the identification end 221 of the identification pin 2 protruding from the accommodating space 11. When an HDMI connector with a double-sided symmetrical bevel design is inserted, it does not make contact with the identification end 221. Thus, the mechanical response is generated by the difference in the shape of the connector to distinguish the connector type, thereby realizing automatic identification of the connector type.

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the first sidewall 12 has a groove 121, the groove 121 has a first groove sidewall 1211 and a groove bottom wall 1212, the groove bottom wall 1212 is parallel to the first sidewall 12, and the first groove sidewall 1211 is perpendicular to the first sidewall 12; the connecting end 211 is connected to the first groove sidewall 1211, and the conductive segment 22 at least partially protrudes from the groove 121 and is spaced apart from the groove bottom wall 1212; both the first insulating segment 21 and the conductive segment 22 are elastic; when the first connector 4 is inserted into the body 1, it meets the contact relationship with the identification end 221, the conductive segment 22 is pushed against and drives the first insulating segment 21 to produce elastic deformation, and the conductive segment 22 pushes against and connects to the groove bottom wall 1212.

[0063] Specifically, this application provides a stable installation space for the identification pin 2 by providing a groove 121 in the first sidewall 12, and provides travel space for the conductive section 22 to be pushed against and cause the first insulating section 21 to undergo elastic deformation. The first groove sidewall 1211 is used to fix the connection end 211, ensuring that the identification pin 2 is accurately positioned and not easily shifted during assembly.

[0064] The conductive segment 22 protrudes at least partially from the groove 121 and is spaced apart from the bottom wall 1212 of the groove, so that the conductive segment 22 forms an open circuit with the bottom wall 1212 of the groove in the initial state, avoiding false connection and ensuring the accuracy of identification. In one embodiment, when a DP connector with a single-sided bevel design is inserted into the receiving space 11, the straight side abuts against the identification end 221 of the identification pin 2 protruding from the receiving space 11. The conductive segment 22 is abutted, causing the first insulating segment 21 to undergo elastic deformation. The conductive segment 22 forms physical contact and electrical connection with the bottom wall 1212 of the groove. The identification end 221 forms a GND conductive path through the body 1, and the truth table is 0, which can determine that the inserted DP connector is correct.

[0065] Both the first insulating section 21 and the conductive section 22 are elastic, making the identification pin 2 a cantilever structure with elasticity. When the connector is pulled out, the conductive section 22 automatically resets under the action of elastic reset force, returning to its initial state of protruding from the groove 121, preparing for the next insertion and identification.

[0066] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the first insulating section 21 is parallel to the bottom wall 1212 of the groove, and the connecting end 211 is located at the first end of the first insulating section 21 and connected to the first groove sidewall 1211; the conductive section 22 is connected to the second end of the first insulating section 21.

[0067] Specifically, this application sets a first insulating section 21 parallel to the bottom wall 1212 of the groove, and a conductive section 22 connected to the second end of the first insulating section 21, so that the identification pin 2 as a whole forms an elastic cantilever structure. When subjected to force, it can produce controllable elastic deformation, so that when the conductive section 22 is pushed against by the first connector 4, the first insulating section 21 can undergo uniform and stable bending deformation in a direction perpendicular to the bottom wall 1212 of the groove, avoiding twisting or displacement, and ensuring reliable contact between the conductive section 22 and the bottom wall 1212 of the groove.

[0068] Furthermore, since the conductive section 22 is located at the free end of the first insulating section 21, far from the fixed connection position between the connecting end 211 and the first groove sidewall 1211, it has a large torque. Under the influence of the lever effect, the recognition end 221 can undergo significant displacement under slight pressure, which reduces the insertion force required for triggering and improves the sensitivity of the recognition action.

[0069] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the conductive segment 22 is V-shaped, one end of the V-shaped conductive segment 22 is connected to the second end of the first insulating segment 21, and the middle part of the V-shaped conductive segment 22 protrudes at least partially from the groove 121.

[0070] Specifically, this application sets the conductive section 22 in a V-shape, with one end of the V-shaped conductive section 22 connected to the second end of the first insulating section 21. At least part of the middle of the V-shaped conductive section 22 protrudes from the groove 121. When subjected to external pressure, the middle of the V-shaped conductive section 22 abuts against the outer wall of the connector, while the two side arms of the V-shaped conductive section 22 deform in coordination, distributing the pressure on the conductive section 22 evenly along the two side arms to avoid stress concentration and achieve a stable displacement toward the bottom wall 1212 of the groove. At the same time, the V-shaped structure enables the identification end 221 of the conductive section 22 to remain stably protruding when not triggered, and is not easily shaken or shifted by vibration or external force, thereby improving the reliability of the identification pin 2.

[0071] like Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the identification pin 2 further includes a second insulating segment 23, which is parallel to the bottom wall 1212 of the groove; the groove 121 has a second groove sidewall 1213 opposite to the first groove sidewall 1211; the first end of the second insulating segment 23 has another connecting end 211, which is connected to the second groove sidewall 1213; and the second segment of the second insulating segment 23 is connected to the side of the conductive segment 22 opposite to the first insulating segment 21.

[0072] Specifically, this application also provides a second insulating section 23 in the identification pin 2. The conductive section 22 is connected to the first groove sidewall 1211 and the second groove sidewall 1213 of the groove 121 through the first insulating section 21 and the second insulating section 23 respectively, forming a bridge-type elastic structure with both ends fixed and the middle suspended. This allows the identification pin 2 structure to remain stable when the conductive section 22 is subjected to force, avoiding torsion, offset or tilting, and further improving the consistency and reliability of mechanical response.

[0073] Both the first insulating section 21 and the second insulating section 23 are elastic and symmetrically arranged, so that when the conductive section 22 is pressed against by the first connector 4, both the first insulating section 21 and the second insulating section 23 can undergo uniform and stable bending deformation in a direction perpendicular to the bottom wall 1212 of the groove, avoiding twisting or displacement and ensuring reliable contact between the conductive section 22 and the bottom wall 1212 of the groove. At the same time, after the external force is removed, the first insulating section 21 and the second insulating section 23 simultaneously release elastic restoring force, allowing the identification pin 2 to quickly reset.

[0074] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the identification pin 2 is located in the target area of ​​the first sidewall 12 in the thickness direction of the body 1, and the target area is offset relative to the middle of the first sidewall 12 in the thickness direction.

[0075] Specifically, in order to adapt to the DP connector with a single-sided bevel design (as the first connector 4) and the HDMI connector with a double-sided symmetrical bevel design (as the second connector 5), such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the beveled edges of both the DP connector and the HDMI connector are offset relative to the center of their sides. This application sets the identification pin 2 to be located in the target area of ​​the first sidewall 12 along the thickness direction of the body 1. This target area is offset relative to the center of the first sidewall 12 along the thickness direction to adapt to the positional characteristics of the aforementioned beveled edges. This ensures that when the DP connector is inserted into the body 1, it maintains contact with the identification end 221, while the HDMI connector maintains a non-contact relationship with the identification end 221, thereby achieving automatic identification of different connector types.

[0076] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, it further includes: an elastic limiting structure 3, which is movably connected to the first sidewall 12 at a distance from the identification pin 2; when the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1, the elastic limiting structure 3 elastically deforms toward the first sidewall 12 and generates an elastic restoring force, which is used to limit the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 in the accommodating space 11.

[0077] Specifically, to achieve automatic limiting and anti-loosening functions when the main body 1 is inserted into the plug, this application also provides an elastic limiting structure 3. The elastic limiting structure 3 is movably connected to the first side wall 12 at intervals from the identification pin 2. When the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 is inserted into the main body 1, the elastic limiting structure 3 elastically deforms towards the first side wall 12 and generates an elastic restoring force. When the connector is fully inserted, the elastic limiting structure 3 applies pressure in the opposite direction under the action of the elastic restoring force, pressing the connector in the opposite direction of the force, so as to form a mechanical self-locking effect on the connector within the accommodating space 11, thereby achieving automatic limiting and anti-loosening when the main body 1 is inserted into the plug. The elastic limiting structure 3 can be a U-shaped, V-shaped, or cantilevered metal spring-type limiting structure, or it can be a plastic inverted buckle, or it can be a wave-shaped metal spring providing multi-point limiting, which is not limited.

[0078] like Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, there are two elastic limiting structures 3, which are respectively movably connected to the first sidewall 12 and the second sidewall 13 opposite to the first sidewall 12 of the body 1. When the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1, the two elastic limiting structures 3 elastically deform towards the first sidewall 12 and the second sidewall 13 respectively, generating an elastic restoring force. The elastic restoring force is used to limit the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 within the accommodating space 11. They are respectively movably connected to the first sidewall 12 and the second sidewall 13 opposite to the first sidewall 12 of the body 1.

[0079] Specifically, the elastic limiting structure 3 provided in this application can be two, and is movably connected to the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 13 opposite to the first side wall 12 of the body 1, respectively. When the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1, the two elastic limiting structures 3 elastically deform towards the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 13 respectively and generate an elastic restoring force. The elastic restoring force acts on the inserted connector from both sides to achieve stable limiting of it within the accommodating space 11. The setting of the elastic limiting structures 3 on both sides provides a uniform limiting force to the inserted connector, ensuring that the connector remains centered and aligned during the insertion process, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the connection.

[0080] Furthermore, during the insertion of the connector, the double-sided elastic limiting structure 3 deforms synchronously, allowing the user to feel balanced resistance during insertion and removal, improving the user's operating experience, and helping to accurately determine whether the connection is in place.

[0081] The elastic limiting structure 3 can be a U-shaped, V-shaped, or cantilevered metal spring-type limiting structure, or a plastic inverted buckle, or a wave-shaped metal spring to provide multi-point limiting, the specific type is not limited.

[0082] Example 2

[0083] A second aspect of this application provides an electronic device, including a control module and an interface structure. The interface structure enables the first connector 4 to connect to the control module when inserted, and enables the second connector 5 to connect to the control module when inserted. The interface structure includes a body 1 and identification pins 2. The body 1 is made of metal and has a receiving space 11. The receiving space 11 is used to at least partially receive the first connector 4 so that the first connector 4 can be inserted into the body 1, or to at least partially receive the second connector 5 so that the second connector 5 can be inserted into the body 1. The identification pins 2 have a connecting end 211 and an identification end 221. The connecting end 211 is connected to a first sidewall 12 on one side of the body 1 and is insulated relative to the body 1. The identification end 221 is made of conductive material and protrudes towards the receiving space 11 relative to the first sidewall 12. When the first connector 4 is inserted into the body 1, it is in contact with the identification end 221. When the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1, it is in a non-contact relationship with the identification end 221. The first connector 4 and the second connector 5 are different.

[0084] For details on the specific structure of the interface, please refer to Example 1, which will not be repeated here.

[0085] The electronic devices provided in this application can be various devices such as 2-in-1 docking stations, 3-in-1 docking stations, monitor expansion docks, multi-functional hubs, computers, mobile workstations, industrial control computers, servers, data center equipment, etc., and are not limited in specific types. As long as the first connector 4 and the second connector 5 can be automatically identified and compatiblely connected.

[0086] The control module can be an MCU (Microcontroller Unit), a PMIC (Power Management Integrated Circuit), a SoC (System on Chip), etc., and is not limited to any specific type. In one embodiment, when the DP (DisplayPort) insertion interface structure, which serves as the first connector 4, is in contact with the identification pin 221 of the identification pin 2, or when the HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) insertion interface structure, which serves as the second connector 5, is not in contact with the identification pin 221 of the identification pin 2, the SoC can read the status of the identification pin 2 through its built-in GPIO (General Purpose Input / Output) to determine whether the interface type connected to the interface structure is DP or HDMI. It can also send a mode switching command to the HDMI to DP chip set in the electronic device to switch the chip to the corresponding DP or HDMI receiving mode, so as to realize the communication connection matching of the connector.

[0087] In another embodiment, this application can also utilize the different functional definitions of the 13th pin of the interface structure. By detecting and reading the electrical state of the pin as either a CONFIG (Configuration) signal or a GND (Ground) signal, when a CONFIG signal is read, it is determined that the interface structure is connected to a DP connector, and when a GND signal is read, it is determined that the interface structure is connected to an HDMI connector. Thus, by setting the functional definition of the 13th pin, based on the physical and mechanical identification of whether the identification end 221 of pin 2 is in contact with the connector, electrical identification is performed by defining the 13th pin, thereby realizing a dual verification mechanism and improving the accuracy of connector identification.

[0088] A second aspect of this application provides an electronic device, including a control module and an interface structure. The interface structure enables the first connector 4 to connect to the control module when inserted, and enables the second connector 5 to connect to the control module when inserted. The interface structure includes a body 1 and identification pins 2. The body 1 is made of metal and has a receiving space 11. The receiving space 11 is used to at least partially receive the first connector 4 so that the first connector 4 can be inserted into the body 1, or to at least partially receive the second connector 5 so that the second connector 5 can be inserted into the body 1. The identification pins 2 have a connecting end 211 and an identification end 221. The connecting end 211 is connected to a first sidewall 12 on one side of the body 1 and is insulated relative to the body 1. The identification end 221 is made of conductive material and protrudes towards the receiving space 11 relative to the first sidewall 12. When the first connector 4 is inserted into the body 1, it is in contact with the identification end 221. When the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1, it is in a non-contact relationship with the identification end 221. The first connector 4 and the second connector 5 are different. The interface structure of the electronic device provided in this application allows the first connector 4 and the second connector 5 to be shared, eliminating the need for corresponding insertion or re-searching for interfaces. This avoids connection failures or conversion problems caused by interface incompatibility, improving user experience. Simultaneously, an identification pin 2 is provided, with its connection end 211 electrically insulated from the conductive body 1, forming an independent signal path. Its voltage level is unaffected by the position of the body 1, ensuring accurate and reliable transmission of the detection signal to the control module of the electronic device. The identification end 221 protrudes towards the accommodating space 11, allowing for different contact and non-contact states when the first connector 4 or the second connector 5 is inserted into the body 1. This enables the identification of the inserted connector type solely through mechanical contact, achieving automatic identification of different connector types through a single interface. This provides a basis for protocol switching and power management in electronic devices based on different connector types, reducing the complexity of connector identification and avoiding safety hazards caused by incorrect insertion. Through the application of this application, the technical problems of requiring users to insert different types of connectors, resulting in situations where incorrect insertion leads to repeated interface searches and safety hazards, negatively impacting user experience, are solved.

[0089] The embodiments of this disclosure have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this disclosure, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.

[0090] While specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the examples are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner.

Claims

1. An interface structure, characterized in that, include: The main body is made of metal and has an accommodating space. The accommodating space is used to at least partially accommodate the first connector so that the first connector can be inserted into the body, or to at least partially accommodate the second connector so that the second connector can be inserted into the body; The identification pin has a connecting end and an identification end. The connecting end is connected to a first sidewall on one side of the body and is insulated relative to the body. The identification end is made of conductive material and protrudes relative to the first sidewall toward the accommodating space. When the first connector is inserted into the body, it is in contact with the identification end. When the second connector is inserted into the body, it maintains a non-contact relationship with the identification end. The first connector and the second connector are different.

2. The interface structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The identification pin includes a first insulating segment and a conductive segment connected to each other. The first insulating segment is connected to the first sidewall, and the conductive segment is spaced apart from the first sidewall and connected to the first insulating segment. The connection end is disposed in the first insulating section, and the identification end is disposed in the conductive section.

3. The interface structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first sidewall has a groove, the groove having a first groove sidewall and a groove bottomwall, the groove bottomwall being parallel to the first sidewall and the first groove sidewall being perpendicular to the first sidewall; The connecting end is connected to the sidewall of the first groove, and the conductive segment at least partially protrudes from the groove and is spaced from the bottom wall of the groove; Both the first insulating segment and the conductive segment are elastic; When the first connector is inserted into the body, it is in contact with the identification end. The conductive section is pushed against, causing the first insulating section to undergo elastic deformation. The conductive section pushes against and connects to the bottom wall of the groove.

4. The interface structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first insulating section is parallel to the bottom wall of the groove, and the connecting end is located at the first end of the first insulating section and connects to the side wall of the first groove. The conductive segment is connected to the second end of the first insulating segment.

5. The interface structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The conductive segment is V-shaped, with one end of the V-shaped conductive segment connected to the second end of the first insulating segment, and at least part of the middle portion of the V-shaped conductive segment protruding from the groove.

6. The interface structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The identification pin also includes a second insulating section, which is parallel to the bottom wall of the groove; The groove has a second groove sidewall opposite to the first groove sidewall, the first end of the second insulating segment has another connecting end, the connecting end is connected to the second groove sidewall, and the second segment of the second insulating segment is connected to the side of the conductive segment opposite to the first insulating segment.

7. The interface structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The identification pin is located in the target area of ​​the first sidewall in the thickness direction of the body, and the target area is offset relative to the middle of the first sidewall in the thickness direction.

8. The interface structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: An elastic limiting structure is provided, wherein the elastic limiting structure is movably connected to the first sidewall at a distance from the identification pin; When the first connector or the second connector is inserted into the body, the elastic limiting structure elastically deforms toward the first sidewall and generates an elastic restoring force, which is used to limit the first connector or the second connector within the accommodating space.

9. The interface structure according to claim 8, characterized in that, The elastic limiting structure consists of two parts, which are respectively movably connected to the first sidewall and the second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall of the body; When the first connector or the second connector is inserted into the body, the two elastic limiting structures elastically deform toward the first sidewall and the second sidewall respectively and generate an elastic restoring force. The elastic restoring force is used to limit the first connector or the second connector in the accommodating space.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: Control module; An interface structure that enables the first connector to connect to the control module when the first connector is inserted, and enables the second connector to connect to the control module when the second connector is inserted. The interface structure includes: The main body is made of metal and has an accommodating space. The accommodating space is used to at least partially accommodate the first connector so that the first connector can be inserted into the body, or to at least partially accommodate the second connector so that the second connector can be inserted into the body; The identification pin has a connecting end and an identification end. The connecting end is connected to a first sidewall on one side of the body and is insulated relative to the body. The identification end is made of metal and protrudes relative to the first sidewall toward the accommodating space. When the first connector is inserted into the body, it is in contact with the identification end. When the second connector is inserted into the body, it maintains a non-contact relationship with the identification end. The first connector and the second connector are different.

Images