Docking Station Connector Module Indexing Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing docking stations face challenges in usability for non-technical users due to complex connector insertion and sizing issues, with small variations in manufacturing tolerances leading to improper interface and limited compatibility with connectors of varying sizes.

Innovation Solution

A docking station design featuring a connector module with prepositioned electrical connectors and a precision positioning mechanism using indexing members to securely align and orient the module within a base member, allowing for easy connection of external connectors of varying sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If positioning voids are precisely sized for particular external connectors, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision positioningVSAvoidconnector compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The docking station is divided into a base member with positioning voids and a separate connector module. The connector module can be selectively attached to different positioning voids, allowing the system to adapt to different connector sizes while maintaining precise positioning through the indexing mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base member is designed with multiple positioning voids that can accommodate different types of connectors. The indexing members are designed with complementary shapes that work across different connector types, creating a universal interface system that maintains precision while supporting variety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If indexing members are added for precision positioning, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector alignmentVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The indexing members are integrated into the connector module as a unified component rather than separate fastening mechanisms. The positioning voids in the base member are designed to directly receive and guide the indexing members, combining the positioning and attachment functions into a single streamlined process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If prepositioned electrical connectors are used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector installationVSAvoidassembly process

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connectors are prepositioned and integrated into the connector module during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and connection when the module is attached to the base member, simplifying the final assembly process while maintaining ease of operation for end users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8821193B2Docking station for an electronic device having improved connector interface

Publication Date: 2014.09.02 UINTA PRODUCTS INC

AI summary

Disclosed is a docking station for attaching a plurality of external connectors to an electronic device, comprising a connector module for interfacing with the electronic device, a first plug on the connector module, a second plug on the connector module, a first port on the connector module electrically connected to the first plug, a second port on the connector module electrically connected to the second plug, a base member for holding the connector module, a first indexing member on the base member, and a second indexing member on the connector module.