Portable Device Adapter with Integrated Storage Recess

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Solution Overview

Problem

Portable electronic devices face challenges in accommodating larger connecting ports due to space constraints and design objectives of being slim and portable, leading to issues with adapter cables being forgotten or lost.

Innovation Solution

An adapter with a base, first and second connecting ends, and a lid that can be detachably contained within a recess of the device, along with an alarming module to remind users to store the adapter, ensuring it is not lost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If the notebook computer is made slimmer to increase portability, then the portability and convenience are improved, but the ability to accommodate larger connecting ports deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethickness of notebook computerVSAvoidability to accommodate connecting ports
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter is designed to be nested within a containing recess of the notebook computer. The adapter includes a base with connecting ends and a lid that can be contained within the recess, allowing the notebook to maintain a slim profile while providing access to larger connecting ports when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter is divided into separable components including a base, connecting ends, and a lid. The lid can be opened to access the connecting ports, and the entire adapter can be removed from the containing recess when not in use, allowing the notebook to remain slim during normal use while providing expandability when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Length of moving object

If an adapter cable is used to connect peripheral devices, then the notebook computer thickness is reduced, but the risk of the adapter being forgotten or lost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethickness of notebook computerVSAvoidsecurity of adapter storage
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter is merged with the notebook computer by providing a dedicated containing recess integrated into the notebook body. The adapter fits securely within this recess, combining the adapter storage function with the notebook structure itself, eliminating the need for separate storage solutions and reducing the risk of loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The notebook computer provides its own integrated storage solution for the adapter through the containing recess. The system is self-sufficient, requiring no external cables or separate storage devices, and the adapter is always available when needed without risking loss or forgetfulness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If various connecting ports are disposed on the notebook computer to support different peripheral devices, then the expandability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexpandability for peripheral devicesVSAvoidnumber of connecting ports
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter serves multiple functions by providing different types of connecting ports (such as VGA, PS/2, serial ports) through a single integrated component. This multi-functional adapter can be stored within the notebook's containing recess, allowing one notebook to support multiple peripheral device types without needing multiple built-in ports.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2230580B1Adapter and portable electronic device
Publication Date: 2014.12.31 ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC
  • EP2230580B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP2230580B1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP2230580B1 patent drawingFigure 1C

AI summary

An adapter and a portable electronic device which may contain the adapter are disclosed. The adapter may be detachably contained in a containing recess of the portable electronic device, and it includes a base, a first connecting end and a second connecting end. The first connecting end is disposed on the base, and the second connecting end and the first connecting end are electrically connected to each other. In addition, a containing recess is formed on a surface of the portable electronic device for containing the adapter. The portable electronic device may remind the user to put away the adapter into the containing recess.