Connector Insert Encoding Assembly for Single-Orientation Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heavy-duty connectors are bulky and require simultaneous connection of multiple accessories, making assembly time-consuming and prone to mismatching, which impairs performance.
Innovation Solution
An encoding device with first and second encoding parts, each featuring a mating portion that ensures correct orientation upon insertion, preventing mismatching and simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are used to achieve different functions, then functional versatility is improved, but assembly time and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connector functions into a single integrated connector body that can simultaneously accommodate different types of connectors (e.g., USB Type-C, USB Type-A, microSD card slots). This merging approach maintains functional versatility while eliminating the need to assemble multiple separate connectors, thereby improving assembly speed and reducing labor intensity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are connected simultaneously, then functional completeness is improved, but mismatching errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric guide rails and corresponding asymmetric guide grooves within the connector body. These asymmetric features ensure that each connector type can only be inserted in the correct orientation, preventing mismatching errors. The asymmetric design maintains functional completeness by supporting multiple connector types while improving reliability through foolproof orientation guidance.
3Loss of information
If identifiers are used to identify simultaneous connections, then connector identification is improved, but mismatching prevention remains difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces guide rails and guide grooves as intermediary mechanical features that physically mediate the connection process. These intermediaries provide tactile and visual guidance during insertion, making the correct connector identification and orientation intuitive. This mechanical intermediary system is more effective than mere identifiers because it physically prevents incorrect connections through its geometric constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
An encoding device is provided that includes a first encoding part and a second encoding part which are attached to a connector insert assembly, wherein the first encoding part is detachably installed in the first connector insert of the connector insert assembly, and wherein the second encoding part is detachably installed in the second connector insert of the connector insert assembly, and wherein the first encoding part includes a first mating part which is located at the front end of the first encoding part in the insertion direction, and wherein the second encoding part includes a second mating part which is located at the front end of the second encoding part in the insertion direction, and wherein the first mating part and the second mating part are arranged such that, when the first connector insert is inserted into the second connector insert, the first mating part and the second mating part can only fit together in a single orientation in order to prevent mismatching between the first connector insert and the second connector insert. A connector insert assembly with such an encoding device is also provided. The encoding device prevents mismatching between the connector inserts and makes it possible for the installation of the connector insert assembly to be simplified.