Combination Terminal Retractable Contacts USB SD Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing devices face challenges in efficiently interfacing with multiple types of insertable devices, such as USB and SD cards, due to differences in their form factors and protocols, which limits their connectivity and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A combination terminal with a retractable and static portion, each equipped with specific contacts, allows for the selection of an active logic circuit to interface with either a USB or SD device, enabling dual functionality through a combination of retractable and static contacts that adapt to different protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a computing device integrates multiple types of insertable device interfaces (USB, SD slots) with different form factors and protocols, then the device's connectivity and functionality are improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple separate logic circuits and contact configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single receptacle that can accommodate multiple types of insertable devices (USB devices, SD cards, etc.) with different form factors. The system uses a unified contact structure with both retractable and static contacts that can interface with various device types through a common physical interface, eliminating the need for separate dedicated receptacles for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the retractable portion of the contacts that can change position based on the type of insertable device detected. When a device is inserted, the system determines the device type and selectively retracts appropriate contacts to establish the correct electrical connection configuration, allowing the contact structure to adapt dynamically to different device requirements.
2Device complexity
If the receptacle uses a fixed contact configuration to interface with insertable devices, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different form factors and protocols deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the contact structure into two distinct portions: retractable contacts and static contacts. This segmentation allows each portion to serve different functions - the retractable contacts can be selectively engaged or disengaged based on device type, while the static contacts provide continuous connection. This divided structure enables the system to maintain simplicity while achieving adaptability through selective contact engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractable contacts provide dynamic adaptability by changing their engagement state based on the detected device type. The system can selectively retract specific contacts when certain devices are inserted, allowing the same physical receptacle to adapt to different form factors and communication protocols without requiring multiple fixed configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the receptacle is designed to accommodate various form factors with different protocols, then the versatility is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase due to the need for precise contact alignment and protocol-specific configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable contact mechanism provides dynamic adaptation that reduces manufacturing precision requirements. Instead of requiring all contacts to be precisely positioned for all possible device types simultaneously, the system only needs to ensure proper alignment for the currently active device configuration. Contacts that are not needed for a particular device type can be retracted, tolerating greater manufacturing variation in their positions.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the contact structure into retractable and static portions, the patent reduces the precision requirements for the overall contact array. The static contacts, which remain engaged, can be positioned with high precision, while the retractable contacts can tolerate greater variation since they are only engaged when needed. This segmentation allows the system to achieve versatility without requiring uniformly high precision across all contacts.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination terminal includes a first logic circuit that is configured to interface with a first device using a first protocol. The combination terminal also includes a second logic circuit configured to interface with a second device using a second protocol. The combination terminal includes a retractable portion that includes a first plurality of contacts and retracts based upon an insertion of the second device; connects a first portion of the first device with the first logic circuit; and selects an active logic circuit. The combination terminal includes a static portion comprising a second plurality of contacts and connects the second device with the second logic circuit; and connects a second portion of the first device with the first logic circuit using the second plurality of contacts. The first device is connected to the first logic circuit using the first plurality of contacts and the second plurality of contacts.