Connector Ring Hole Illumination Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with musculoskeletal or vision impairments face difficulties in using electronic connectors such as USB connectors due to fine motor control issues, necessitating a solution that simplifies their interaction with electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
An electronic connector design featuring a ring hole for easy grasping, adaptive illumination for visual assistance, and magnetic alignment to facilitate correct connection, along with a versatile adapter for various port forms, addresses the usability challenges for impaired users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional electronic connectors are used, then connection functionality is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates for users with musculoskeletal or vision impairments
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a grasping portion with ring hole for manual handling, an illumination portion with LED indicators for visual feedback, and a connection portion with magnetic alignment features. This segmentation allows each part to address specific user needs independently while maintaining overall functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the connector housing are assigned specialized properties: the grasping portion features a ring hole for finger insertion and torque application, the illumination portion contains LED indicators positioned for visibility, and the connection portion incorporates magnetic elements for alignment. Each local region is optimized for its specific function to assist impaired users.
2Ease of operation
If visual and tactile aids are added to assist impaired users, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple assistance features are merged into a single integrated housing structure: the ring hole for grasping, the LED illumination system for visual feedback, and the magnetic alignment mechanism are all combined within one connector body. This consolidation provides comprehensive assistance without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, contains the ring hole for grasping, houses the LED illumination system for visual feedback, and incorporates magnetic elements for alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
3Measurement precision
If magnetic alignment and illumination features are incorporated, then measurement precision of connection alignment improves, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The LED illumination operates periodically or on-demand rather than continuously, providing visual feedback only when needed during the connection process. This intermittent operation reduces energy consumption while still delivering the necessary visual assistance for precise alignment.
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 solution enables individuals with impairments to easily connect and disconnect electronic devices by providing a tactile and visual aid, ensuring correct alignment and reducing the complexity of plugging in, thereby enhancing accessibility and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic element disposed within the housing of the first connecting unit and positioned adjacent to the cavity receptacle
Implementation Method 2
an LED illuminator disposed within the housing of the first connecting unit and positioned to illuminate an interior of the housing
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic connector includes a first connecting unit. The first connecting unit includes a housing having a ring hole disposed through the housing large enough for a finger to be inserted through the ring hole to grab the first connecting unit, a first electrical connector shaped for forming a first detachable electrical connection, the first electrical connector disposed at a first distal end of the first connecting unit, and an illuminator disposed within the housing proximate to the ring hole to illuminate an inside perimeter of the ring hole.