Elastic Holder Insert for Multi-Connector Fliptop Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fliptop units require different module designs for each type of data connector and cable due to variations in connector height, width, and cable shape, leading to increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular holder insert designed with a platform, arms, and a sleeve made of elastic material, featuring adjustable gaps that accommodate multiple types of connectors and cables, allowing for a single module to support various connector heads and cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different module designs are used for each type of data connector and cable, then each connector type can be properly accommodated, but manufacturing costs increase due to separate designs and tooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single module that can accommodate multiple types of data connectors and cables through adjustable components. The module includes adjustable positioning elements and flexible cable management features that allow it to adapt to different connector sizes, shapes, and cable types (e.g., HDMI, USB, DisplayPort) without requiring separate dedicated modules for each connector type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics through adjustable and reconfigurable components within the module. The positioning elements can be moved or adjusted to accommodate different connector positions, and the cable routing features can be reconfigured for different cable types. This dynamic adjustability allows one module design to serve multiple functions across different connector types.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single module design is used for all connector types, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but the module cannot properly accommodate different connector heights, widths, and cable shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the module into distinct functional components that can be independently adjusted. The module includes separate positioning elements, cable routing features, and mounting components that can be configured independently to accommodate different connector types. This segmentation allows the single module design to be flexibly adapted to various connector dimensions and cable configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes through adjustable geometric parameters within the module design. The positioning elements can be moved to different locations, the cable routing features can be reconfigured, and the overall module configuration can be adjusted to match the specific dimensional parameters (height, width, cable diameter) of different connector types, allowing one design to accommodate multiple connector variations.
3Reliability
If multiple dedicated modules are provided for different connector types, then each connector is optimally supported, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining the functionality of multiple dedicated connector modules into a single multi-functional module. Instead of having separate modules for HDMI, USB, DisplayPort, and other connector types, the invention integrates all these capabilities into one module with adjustable components that can be configured to support any of these connector types, thereby reducing the total number of module types while maintaining reliable support for each connector type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing the module to perform multiple functions - it can support various connector types (HDMI, USB, DisplayPort, etc.), different cable types (round, flat), and different configurations within a single module design. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized modules while ensuring each connector type receives appropriate support through the adjustable features.
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
Enables a single module to hold multiple types of connectors and cables, reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for separate designs and tooling for each type.
Implementation Method 1
the holder insert is formed of a single piece of elastic material such that upon a load being placed on the holder insert, the holder insert deforms and a width of the at least one gap changes
Data Source
AI summary
A holder insert is insertable within a module of a fliptop unit for supporting a variety of connectors that may be stored in the module. A platform part has a first surface, an opposing second surface, and an aperture. A pair of arms located at opposite ends of the platform part each extend away from the platform part and have an end section that is mountable at a height within the module. A sleeve extends from the platform part and surrounds the aperture, extending its depth. At least one gap extends from an edge of the platform part to the aperture, and from the first surface to the second surface and at least part way along the sleeve. The holder insert is a single piece of elastic material. A load being placed on the holder insert deforms the holder insert and changes a width of the at least one gap.