External Latching I/O Housing for Secure Cable Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturization of I/O connectors and devices has led to a lack of space for traditional latching mechanisms to secure I/O cables, making accidental disconnection a concern, especially in critical industries like healthcare, and existing solutions are costly and require new tooling.
Innovation Solution
An external latching apparatus with a main body and latches that can be integrated into or attached to I/O cards, using off-the-shelf connectors and providing cable retention without the need for new tooling, suitable for various connector types like Mini DP, HDMI, and USB.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional latching mechanisms are used to secure I/O cables, then connection security is improved, but device size and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is nested within the existing I/O connector housing structure. The latch arm and spring mechanism are integrated into the connector body, utilizing the existing spatial envelope rather than adding external bulk. This allows the latching function to be embedded without significantly increasing the overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism operates in a different dimensional space by utilizing the depth dimension of the connector housing. The latch arm extends and retracts along the insertion axis, and the spring mechanism is positioned in the depth direction, allowing secure latching without increasing the width or height of the connector.
2Reliability
If screws are used for cable retention, then connection security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to tool requirements and tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through spring force. The spring-loaded latch arm automatically engages with the latch post when the connector is inserted, providing secure retention without requiring manual intervention or external tools. The user simply needs to press the release tab to disengage the latch.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual screw fastening system is replaced with an automatic spring-loaded mechanical latch system. This substitution eliminates the need for screwdrivers or other tools, and the entire latching action can be performed with simple finger pressure on the release tab, dramatically improving ease of operation.
3Reliability
If internal latching mechanisms are designed for mini I/O connectors, then connection security is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase due to new tooling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is designed as a universal solution that can be adapted to multiple I/O connector types including Mini DP, HDMI, and USB. The basic latch arm, spring, and post design can be scaled and configured for different connector form factors, eliminating the need for completely different tooling for each connector type while maintaining security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism is segmented into modular components: a latch arm, a spring element, and a latch post. These separate components can be manufactured using standard processes and then assembled into the connector housing, avoiding the need for complex integrated tooling. The modular design allows for easier manufacturing and assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention generally include apparatus for providing a positive locked connection for I/O devices to computing devices. In one embodiment, an external latching apparatus for an Input/Output (I/O) connection is provided. The external latching apparatus includes a main body and at least one latch. The main body includes a first surface configured to abut to an I/O card bracket and a second surface, parallel and spaced apart from the first surface. The at least one latch extends from the main body beyond the first surface. A plurality of parallel slots are formed in the second surface. Each slot is open on a bottom side of the body and is configured to receive a cable of an I/O cable assembly.