Detent-Locked Electrical Connector for Controlled Cable Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices face issues with accidental disconnection of cables, which can damage components and lead to data loss, as existing connectors do not reliably prevent unwanted extraction.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle connector with a trim ring, base, and detent mechanism, including canted coil springs, that interlocks with a plug connector, requiring varying forces to insert and extract, and includes a central protrusion with flanges and magnets for secure orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional connector design is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the connector is prone to accidental disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic detent mechanism with spring-loaded arms that can rotate between engaged and disengaged positions. The detent arms are biased by springs to automatically engage with the plug connector's features, providing reliable connection that can also be intentionally released by applying force to move the detent arms away from their engaged position.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector uses asymmetric flange widths and non-uniform spacing between detent arms to create orientation-specific engagement. The plug connector has corresponding asymmetric features that only align correctly in the proper orientation, preventing accidental disconnection while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then accidental disconnection is prevented, but extraction force becomes excessively high
Solution Approach 1:
The detent mechanism provides strong retention through spring-loaded engagement arms that flexibly maintain contact pressure. However, the arms are designed to rotate away from their engaged position when sufficient force is applied, allowing intentional extraction without requiring excessively high forces. The spring bias provides continuous engagement pressure while permitting controlled release.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector divides the retention function into multiple independent detent arms rather than using a single rigid locking mechanism. Each arm can independently engage and disengage, distributing the retention force and allowing gradual release through rotation rather than requiring sudden high-force extraction.
3Reliability
If orientation-specific features are added, then correct alignment is ensured, but the connector cannot be extracted in the first orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs asymmetric flange widths and non-uniform detent spacing to ensure the plug connector can only be inserted in the correct orientation. However, the detent mechanism is designed to allow extraction by rotating the plug connector to a different angular position where the detent arms can disengage, providing both alignment assurance and extraction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent arms are designed to dynamically respond to rotational movement of the plug connector. When rotated to specific angles, the arms can disengage from their engaged features, allowing extraction. The asymmetric geometry ensures engagement only in the correct orientation while permitting controlled disengagement through rotation.
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 ensures reliable interlocking of cable assemblies with electronic devices, preventing accidental disconnection and reducing the risk of damage, while allowing controlled extraction with minimal force.
Implementation Method 1
The receptacle connector can include a spring that biases the detent toward the raised portion. The spring can be one of a canted coil spring or a leaf spring.
Implementation Method 2
The plug connector can include one or more magnets disposed within the boot.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device can include an enclosure and a receptacle disposed on the enclosure. The receptacle can form a recess which interlocks or otherwise engages with a plug connector of a cable assembly. The plug connector can include a boot, a central protrusion coupled to the boot, and one or more flanges extending laterally from the central protrusion. The receptacle can include one more detents disposed within the recess. Each of the one or more detents can interlock with a respective flange of the central protrusion. The detents can be biased to extend into the recess by one or more biasing elements. Each of the detents can form an angled surface which interfaces with a respective flange to retain the plug connector within the receptacle.