Adjustable Connector Mechanism for Variable Cover Thickness

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices with protective covers of varying thicknesses pose a challenge for modular imaging modules and other devices that need to interface with personal electronic devices, as existing solutions fail to accommodate different cover thicknesses effectively.

Innovation Solution

A modular connector adjustment mechanism within the housing of the device, featuring a retractable connector, an adjuster, and a holding mechanism, allows for adjustable positioning to accommodate various cover thicknesses, ensuring secure and reliable connection with personal electronic devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed connector position is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different cover thicknesses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of different cover thicknessesVSAvoidconnector adjustment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is made adjustable through a mechanism that allows it to move between multiple positions. The adjuster component enables dynamic repositioning of the connector along the circuit board to accommodate varying cover thicknesses, transforming a static connector into a dynamic, adaptable component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connector adjustment mechanism is divided into distinct functional components: the connector itself, the adjuster mechanism, and the holding mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to achieve the overall goal of accommodating different thicknesses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a retractable connector with multiple positions is implemented, then adaptability to different cover thicknesses is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector positioning flexibilityVSAvoidadjuster and holding mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding mechanism automatically secures the connector at selected positions without requiring additional locking actions. The mechanism self-activates to hold the connector in place once positioned, reducing the need for complex manual locking procedures and simplifying the overall operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The adjuster acts as an intermediary component between the connector and the circuit board, enabling position changes without requiring direct manipulation of the connector itself. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the user interaction while achieving the desired connector repositioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11196217B2Variable case thickness accommodation plug systems and methods

Publication Date: 2021.12.07 TELEDYNE FLIR LLC

AI summary

Systems and techniques are disclosed for an electronic device that may be coupled to an external device via a connector. The external device may have a protective cover, and different protective covers may have different thicknesses. The electronic device may include a connector adjustment mechanism that may adjust a position of the connector depending on the cover thickness.