Retractable Charging Cable Sleeve for Connector Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Charging cable connectors are prone to damage and breakage when not in use due to exposure.
Innovation Solution
A protective sleeve that surrounds the connector, retractable between extended and retracted positions, is biased into the extended position by springs or friction, providing protection when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the connector is exposed for easy access and insertion, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of breaking off or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The protective sleeve is nested over the connector, providing protection when not in use. The sleeve can be retracted or removed when connection is needed, allowing the connector to be accessed. This nested structure enables the connector to be protected during storage while remaining accessible during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective sleeve is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed - it can be retracted, removed, or moved aside when connection is needed. This dynamic characteristic allows the system to transition between protected state (sleeve in place) and operational state (sleeve retracted), resolving the contradiction between protection and accessibility.
2Reliability
If a protective sleeve is added to shield the connector, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective sleeve is implemented as a flexible, thin-walled structure that can be easily manufactured and attached to the cable. This simple geometric form minimizes structural complexity while providing effective protection. The sleeve can be made from common materials like plastic or metal tubing, keeping the solution simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable assembly is segmented into distinct functional parts: the cable core, the connector, and the protective sleeve. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies manufacturing and assembly. The sleeve as a separate component can be easily attached or removed without affecting the connector or cable.
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
Reduces the likelihood of connector damage and breakage by default encasement, ensuring longevity and reducing replacement needs.
Implementation Method 1
a first and second spring for biasing the protective sleeve to an extended position
Implementation Method 2
the protective sleeve encompasses the connector in the extended position
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a charging cable having a protective sleeve which extends to an extended position to protect the charging end of the cable. The protective sleeve may be retracted to a retracted position to reveal the charging end and allow the cable to be plugged into an electronic device. Various embodiments are disclosed in which the protective sleeve may be spring loaded by a single spring, by a plurality of springs, or it may be manually operated.