Connector Plug Engaging Arm Structure for Secure Industrial Connections

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional connectors with universal specifications, such as USB Type-C, face challenges in maintaining firmness and preventing detachment when used in industrial computers with stringent usage requirements.

Innovation Solution

A connector plug design featuring an outer casing with an inner and outer casing member, including an engaging arm mechanism that securely fastens the connector in place during plugging, ensuring stability and preventing detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional connectors with universal specifications are used, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to loosening and detachment under stringent usage requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuniversal specification compatibilityVSAvoidconnector firmness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into multiple functional components: an outer casing member with inner and outer casings, an engaging arm with pressing and engaging portions, and a recessed portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the outer casing provides universal compatibility, while the engaging arm provides secure fastening, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The engaging arm is pre-configured with a pressing portion that protrudes from the outer casing and an engaging portion that extends forward to engage with the connector body. This preliminary arrangement ensures that as soon as the connector is plugged in, the engaging arm automatically secures it in place, preventing loosening before it can occur

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If specially-designed connector plugging structures are used for industrial computers, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to limited scope of application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector firmnessVSAvoidapplication scope
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The outer casing member is designed with a universal specification that can accommodate different connector types and applications. The inner casing and engaging arm mechanism provide the secure fastening function, while the outer casing maintains compatibility with standard connectors, thus achieving multi-functionality that combines reliability with broad adaptability

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

3Reliability

If an engaging arm mechanism is added to reinforce the connector structure, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector fastening securityVSAvoidconnector structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The engaging arm is integrated into the outer casing member as a unified structure, where the pressing portion and engaging portion form a continuous element. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies assembly, while still providing the necessary securing function to improve reliability without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12212096B2Connector plug, abutting structure of the same, and electrical connection mechanism having the same
Publication Date: 2025.01.28 GETAC TECH CORP
  • US12212096B2 patent drawing
  • US12212096B2 patent drawing
  • US12212096B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A connector plug, abutting structure of the same, and electrical connection mechanism having the same are provided. The connector plug includes a connection body and an outer casing member. The outer casing member is disposed outside the connection body and includes an inner casing and an outer casing enclosing the inner casing. At least one engaging arm is disposed on the inner casing and has a pressing portion protruding from the outer casing and an engaging portion extending forward from the pressing portion and hanging on the sidewall of an insertion port of the connection body. At least one engaging hole is defined on a receptacle. When a plug is plugged into the receptacle, the engaging portion becomes engaged with the engaging hole to achieve connection.