Integrated Cable Assembly Switch Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cable assembly processes require additional time and effort to mount a switch device to a computer external cage, as it is typically assembled separately from the module structure containing input/output ports like USB, Video, RCA, and IEEE1394 connectors.
Innovation Solution
A cable assembly design that integrates a switch device with a base, pushing, and operating portion, along with connectors such as RCA, Audio, USB, and IEEE1394 connectors, arranged in a row, allowing for easy assembly and integration with the computer cage in a single step.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the switch device is assembled separately from the module structure containing connectors, then each component can be manufactured independently, but the assembly time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switch device and multiple connectors (USB, Video, RCA, IEEE1394) into a single integrated module structure. The module housing contains all these components pre-assembled together, allowing the entire assembly to be mounted to the computer external cage in one operation rather than separately assembling each component. This merging of components directly resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of manufacture through modular design while dramatically improving productivity through reduced assembly time.
2Ease of operation
If the switch device is mounted separately to the computer external cage, then the assembly process requires multiple mounting steps, but this increases assembly complexity and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The switch device and connectors are merged into a single module that can be mounted to the computer external cage in one step. The module housing is designed with a mounting structure that allows the entire assembly to be attached simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate mounting operations. This directly addresses the contradiction by simplifying the assembly process while reducing the time required.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch device and connectors are pre-assembled into the module housing before delivery to the customer. This preliminary assembly action means that when the module is installed, all components are already in their final positions, eliminating the need for multiple mounting steps during installation. This pre-assembly approach directly reduces assembly time and simplifies the installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable assembly (100) comprises a cover (2) having a plurality of retaining slots (216, 226) arranged in a row along a transversal direction; a number of connectors (12, 13, 14, 15) mounted to the retaining slots, respectively; and a switch device (4) mounted to the cover, the switch including a base portion (41), a pushing portion (42) and an operating portion (43) assembled together in serial manner.