Adapter Retention Device with Deformable Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic device adapters, such as those for charging and data syncing, are frequently lost, misplaced, or damaged due to their small size and separate transportation, causing inconvenience to users.
Innovation Solution
A retention device comprising a shell and insert designed to securely store and protect adapters, featuring a deformable insert with a cutout region for adapter retention, a cover for protection, and optional fasteners or attachment mechanisms to prevent loss and misplacement, integrated into a case or standalone device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If adapters are separately transported from portable electronic devices, then device portability is improved, but adapters are frequently lost, misplaced, or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the adapter storage function with the portable electronic device case by integrating a retention device into the case structure. The case now serves dual purposes: protecting the device and securely holding the adapter, eliminating the need for separate adapter transportation while preventing loss and damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is nested within a dedicated retention device that is itself integrated into the larger case structure. This nested arrangement allows the adapter to be stored compactly within the case, maintaining device portability while ensuring the adapter remains secure and protected during transport.
2Volume of moving object
If adapters are made small to save space, then device integration is improved, but adapters are easily lost or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The retention device provides a specially designed local environment for the adapter with specific geometric features (recesses, contours, friction surfaces) that match the adapter's shape. This localized customization ensures the small adapter is securely retained through precise geometric engagement and friction, preventing loss despite its compact size.
3Reliability
If a retention device is integrated into a case, then adapter protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The case is designed with multi-functionality by integrating the adapter retention device into its structure. The case now performs multiple functions: protecting the portable electronic device, securely holding the adapter, and providing a unified protective enclosure. This eliminates the need for separate adapter cases or pouches, reducing overall system complexity despite the enhanced case structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The retention device effectively secures adapters, reducing damage and loss by providing a secure storage solution that prevents accidental drops and misplacement, while allowing easy access and interchangeability for different adapter types.
Implementation Method 1
the insert includes a resiliently deformable material
Implementation Method 2
a hook-and-loop fastener, hook-and-pile fastener, or touch fastener, is disposed on the exterior surface of the shell
Implementation Method 3
the cutout region is configured to retain the adapter within the insert by friction
Data Source
AI summary
A retention device for portable audio, video, and power adapters commonly used with portable electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones) includes a shell that is configured to receive a removable insert formed from a resiliently deformable material, which retains and protects an adapter for a portable electronic device. The removable insert may be interchangeable with a plurality of inserts, each of which comprises a cutout region configured to accommodate and retain a corresponding adapter.