Integrated Connector Adapter for Dual-Plug Cable Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors cannot simultaneously accommodate cables with adapter plugs on both ends, leading to inconvenience and increased component costs. Additionally, there are issues with insertion difficulty between the connector and the connection object, and manufacturers face challenges in producing connectors that match various cable types, resulting in high production and labor costs.
Innovation Solution
A connector design comprising a functional base and an adapter module, where the adapter module has an adaptation end and a connection plug, both compatible with each other. The adapter module is integrated with the functional base to expose both ends, allowing the connector to connect to a connection object via the connection plug and a cable with an adapted plug via the adaptation end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional adapters are used to connect cables with adapter plugs on both ends, then connection compatibility is improved, but device complexity and component costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connector body and adapter module into a single integrated unit. The adapter module is内置 (built-in) within the connector, allowing the connector to directly accommodate cables with adapter plugs on both ends without requiring separate additional adapters. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate components while maintaining connection compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple cable types simultaneously. The adapter module can accommodate different cable specifications and sizes, allowing a single connector design to work with various cable types that have adapter plugs, thereby improving adaptability without increasing component complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of connectors are produced to match different cable types, then connection compatibility is improved, but manufacturing complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal connector design where the adapter module can accommodate multiple cable types through unified specifications. The adapter module is designed to fit different cable sizes and types within the same connector body, allowing manufacturers to produce a single type of connector that can match various cable types, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and production costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is segmented into a functional base and a separate adapter module. This segmentation allows the adapter module to be designed with universal compatibility features while the functional base remains standardized. Manufacturers can produce the functional base in a standardized manner and combine it with adapter modules designed for different cable types, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cable ends are dismantled and replaced with specific connectors, then connection compatibility is improved, but labor costs and operational convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connector and adapter module into a single pre-assembled unit that can directly connect to cables with adapter plugs. This eliminates the need for users to dismantle cable ends and replace connectors, as the integrated design allows for direct connection, thereby improving ease of operation and reducing labor costs while maintaining connection compatibility.
4Ease of manufacture
If the connector structure is simplified to reduce costs, then manufacturing ease is improved, but insertion difficulty between connector and connection object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into a functional base and an adapter module, allowing the functional base to be produced with simplified, cost-effective manufacturing processes. The adapter module is designed as a separate component that can be easily assembled into the functional base, maintaining ease of manufacture while providing the necessary structural features for smooth insertion and connection.
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector includes a functional base and an adapter module. Two ends of the adapter module are respectively an adaptation end and a connection plug. The adaptation end and the connection plug are respectively compatible interface and plug in the same type. The functional base is fittedly assembled with the adapter module to expose both the adaptation end and the connection plug, enabling the connector to be connected to a connection object via the connection plug and the adaptation end to be connected to a cable with an adapted plug. The functional base also includes functional configurations related to the connector and/or the connection object.