External Module With Moving Assembly For Connector Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer hosts often lack sufficient bus connectors to meet the diverse needs of versatile peripherals, leading to underutilization of existing connectors.
Innovation Solution
An external module with a moving assembly that allows a second connector to switch between multiple connecting ports, powered by an electronic device, enabling flexible connection and series arrangement of external modules with different functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bus connectors are provided in the host, then the number of available connection ports increases, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the connection functionality into multiple external modules that can be independently connected in series. Each module has its own connector, allowing the host to expand connectivity without integrating all connectors into a single complex device. The connection path is segmented through intermediate modules (host→module1→module2→peripheral), enabling versatile connections while keeping the host structure simple.
Solution Approach 2:
External modules serve multiple functions: they act as extension connectors to increase available ports, provide power delivery to peripherals, and enable series connections between multiple modules. A single module can connect different types of peripherals with different power requirements, making the system universally adaptable without requiring dedicated connectors for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a moving assembly is added to enable connector switching, then the adaptability of the external module increases, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The external module incorporates a moving assembly that allows the second connector to dynamically switch between different connecting ports on the body. This dynamic positioning enables a single module to adapt to different connection configurations without requiring multiple fixed connectors, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving assembly is disposed within the body of the external module, with the second connector nested on the moving assembly. This nested structure allows the moving assembly to rotate and position the connector at different ports while maintaining a compact form factor, reducing manufacturing difficulty compared to external switching mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If external modules are connected in series, then the number of available connectors increases, but the power delivery requirements and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
External modules serve as intermediary devices in the power delivery chain. The first connector receives power from the host or upstream module, and the moving assembly with the second connector delivers power to downstream modules or peripherals. This intermediary structure enables series connections while managing power delivery requirements through controlled power transmission between modules.
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
This solution increases the flexibility and convenience of using external modules by allowing multiple modules to be connected in series with an electronic device, addressing the issue of insufficient connectors and enabling efficient use of available ports.
Implementation Method 1
The electromagnetic assembly includes a movable magnetic member and a plurality of coils surrounding the movable magnetic member. The coils are adapted to receive power to drive the movable magnetic member to push the rack back-and-forth, thereby rotating the rotating axle and the cantilever.
Data Source
AI summary
An external module, an electronic device and a method for driving an electronic module are provided. The electronic device includes a host and multiple external modules. The external module adapted to be removably connected to the electronic device includes a body, a first connector, a moving assembly and a second connector. The body has multiple connecting ports. The first connector is fixed on one of the connecting ports. The electronic device is adapted to be electrically connected to the first connector for providing power to the external module to drive the moving assembly. The second connector is assembled to the moving assembly disposed in the body and electrically connected to the first connector. The moving assembly drives the second connector to switch between the connecting ports, and the connecting port where the second connector is located is different from the connecting port where the first connector is located.