Low Profile Audio Connection Pin with Spring-Loaded Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connection pins for speaker array systems protrude significantly, increasing the risk of damage and requiring time-consuming removal and replacement, especially in applications where space is limited and quick installation is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A low profile connection pin design featuring an elongated neck and base with spring-loaded elements and an actuator that retracts when activated, allowing for temporary fixation and easy removal, reducing protrusion and enhancing tamper resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional connection pins are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but the overall width of the speaker array module increases and damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection pin is divided into distinct functional segments: a recessed body portion embedded in the enclosure, a protruding neck portion providing connection functionality, and a lip portion creating a stepped configuration. This segmentation allows each part to serve its specific function while minimizing overall protrusion and maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection pin design embeds the body portion within the enclosure wall, nesting it inside the existing structure. The neck portion extends only as needed for connection purposes, and the lip portion creates a stepped profile that reduces overall width. This nesting approach minimizes the external footprint while preserving internal structural strength.
2Productivity
If conventional connection pins are used, then connection stability is achieved, but removal and replacement becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection pin incorporates a spring-loaded detent ball mechanism that dynamically transitions between locked and unlocked states. The detent ball engages with a cam surface to secure the connection, and when actuated, the spring forces the ball to disengage, enabling quick release. This dynamic mechanism provides stable connection during use while allowing rapid removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded detent ball mechanism is self-actuating through the cam surface geometry. As the connection pin is inserted or removed, the cam surface automatically triggers the detent ball to engage or disengage without requiring external actuation. This self-service feature simplifies the installation and removal process, reducing time loss while maintaining connection stability.
3Reliability
If conventional connection pins are used, then connection functionality is provided, but tamper resistance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded detent ball acts as an intermediary locking mechanism between the connection pin and the enclosure. The detent ball engages with the cam surface to provide secure, tamper-resistant locking, while the actuator serves as an intermediary interface that allows authorized users to trigger the release mechanism. This intermediary system balances tamper resistance with controlled accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection pin features localized functional zones: the recessed body portion provides structural embedding, the lip portion creates a stepped profile for reduced width, and the actuator region provides controlled access to the detent ball mechanism. Each local region is optimized for its specific function, providing tamper resistance where needed while maintaining ease of operation at the actuator interface.
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 low profile connection pin design reduces the overall width of the speaker array module, minimizes damage risk, and simplifies installation and removal, providing a quicker and cleaner assembly process while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring-loaded element along the neck for maintaining the connection pin in a temporary fixed position relative to another element
Implementation Method 2
an actuator that resides in an opening in the base and retracts the at least one spring-loaded element when in a pressed position
Data Source
AI summary
A connection pin comprises an elongated neck and a base at an end of the neck. The base may include a first portion, a second portion between the first portion and the neck, and a lip between the first portion and the second portion. A distance between the lip and the neck may be less than a radius of the neck. The connection pin may further comprises at least one spring-loaded element along the neck for maintaining the connection pin in a temporary fixed position relative to another element in which the neck is constructed for insertion and an actuator that retracts the at least one spring-loaded element when in a pressed position. An end of the actuator does not exceed a surface of the base when the actuator is in an unpressed position. An opening in the base may be threaded.