Connector Fastening Apparatus with Elastic Binding Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for securing connectors to electronic devices are inadequate, as they fail to prevent detachment due to external forces, are complex to install, and do not adapt to different connector sizes, leading to potential damage from lost power or signal.

Innovation Solution

A fastening apparatus with integrally formed fixing portions and a connection mechanism that includes a holder with adjustable screw placement and a dual-locking mechanism using a hook and arm structure, allowing for secure attachment and easy installation, adaptable to various connector sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If conventional close-fit securing method is used, then the structure is simple, but the securing effect is reduced after plugging cycles or due to external force

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidsecuring effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening apparatus is divided into multiple functional segments: a fastening body with first binding unit, a second binding unit, and a flexible element connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together to provide reliable securing against external forces and plugging cycles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flexible element introduces dynamic capability to the fastening system, allowing it to adapt and respond to external forces. The flexible element can deform elastically under pulling forces and return to its original position, maintaining continuous securing pressure on the cable and connector throughout the operational lifecycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If prior fastening devices with multiple separate elements are used, then the securing effect is improved, but the installation and detachment become complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring effectVSAvoidinstallation and detachment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple binding functions are merged into a single integrated fastening apparatus. The first binding unit, second binding unit, and flexible element are combined into one cohesive device that can be installed and detached as a single unit, eliminating the complexity of coordinating multiple separate fastening elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening apparatus utilizes the elastic property of the flexible element to achieve self-securing. When the cable is inserted through the through hole, the flexible element automatically deforms and exerts clamping force, securing the cable without requiring additional fastening actions or complex assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If conventional fastening devices are used, then the securing effect is improved, but they cannot adapt to different connector sizes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring effectVSAvoidadaptability to different connector sizes
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening apparatus is designed with universal adaptability through its flexible element and through hole configuration. The flexible element can accommodate cables of different diameters, and the through hole can be positioned at various locations on the fastening body, allowing the same apparatus to securely fasten different types and sizes of connectors and plugs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening apparatus allows for parameter adjustments including the position of the through hole on the fastening body and the dimensions of the flexible element. These parameter changes enable the apparatus to adapt to different cable diameters, connector sizes, and mounting requirements, providing versatile applicability across various electronic devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Device complexity

If through holes with axial direction parallel to normal direction are used, then the structure is simple, but external pulling force cannot be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidexternal pulling force resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening apparatus introduces a dimensional change by allowing the through hole to be positioned at various locations and orientations on the fastening body, not limited to the center or parallel to the normal direction. This spatial reconfiguration creates a geometric relationship between the cable, connector, and fastening body that effectively resists external pulling forces through optimized force distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 apparatus effectively prevents connector detachment from external forces, simplifies installation and detachment, and is cost-effective, ensuring stable power and signal transmission across different connector sizes.

Implementation Method 1

a binding mechanism comprising a first binding unit, an elastic element and a second binding unit, wherein the first binding unit is connected to the first fixing portion, the second binding unit is connected to the second fixing portion, and the elastic element connects the first binding unit and the second binding unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2950402B1Fastening apparatus for securing a connector to an electronic device
Publication Date: 2017.10.04 ATEN INTERNATIONAL CO LTD
  • EP2950402B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP2950402B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2950402B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention provides a fastening apparatus for retaining a connector coupled to an electronic device. The fastening apparatus for connector comprises a first fixing portion (104), a connection portion (102) and a second fixing portion (106). The first fixing portion (104) is disposed at one side of a connector (30) and has a first binding unit (1042). The connection portion (102) is formed on the first fixing portion (104) to connect the first fixing portion (104) to a housing (40) of an electronic device. The second fixing portion (106) is pivotally rotatable relative to the first fixing portion (104), the second fixing portion (106) including a second binding unit (1062) which engages the first binding unit (1042) when the second fixing portion (106) rotates to a specific location, so that a cable of the connector is enclosed between the first fixing portion (104) and the second fixing portion (106).