Fliptop Connector Insert With Elastic Gaps for Multi-Connector Fit
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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 with a platform, arms, and a sleeve made of elastic material, featuring adjustable gaps that accommodate various connector types by deforming to fit different sizes, allowing a single module to support multiple connector and cable types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different module designs are used for each connector type, then each connector is held securely, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The holder insert is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple connector types (HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, DisplayPort, etc.) through a single design. The elastic material and adjustable gaps enable the same holder to adapt to different connector dimensions without requiring separate module designs for each connector type, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining secure holding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder insert utilizes elastic material properties that allow it to deform and change shape based on the inserted connector's dimensions. The gaps in the holder can adjust their width dynamically, enabling the same physical structure to securely hold connectors of varying sizes and shapes through parameter changes in the holder's form rather than requiring different structures for each connector type.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple module designs are created for different connectors, then each connector fits perfectly, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single holder insert design serves multiple connector types by incorporating adjustable gaps and elastic material that can adapt to different connector dimensions. This universal design approach maintains precise fitting for each connector type without requiring multiple specialized module designs, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder insert incorporates elastic material that dynamically adjusts its shape and the gaps within it based on the connector being inserted. This dynamic adaptation allows the same static structure to achieve precise fits for various connector types, eliminating the need for multiple fixed designs and reducing overall device complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single module design is used for all connectors, then manufacturing costs decrease, but adaptability to different connector types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The holder insert employs elastic material with adjustable gaps that can change their dimensional parameters to accommodate different connector types. This allows a single module design to maintain high adaptability across various connector formats (different heights, widths, and shapes) without requiring multiple specialized designs, thus achieving both cost reduction and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder insert is constructed from elastic material that provides flexibility and adaptability. This flexible construction enables the single module design to conform to different connector shapes and sizes, maintaining connector type compatibility while simplifying manufacturing by using one universal design rather than multiple rigid, specialized designs.
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 reduces the need for multiple module designs, lowering manufacturing costs and enabling a single module to handle various connectors and cables efficiently.
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 module is insertable within a fliptop unit for supporting any one of a variety of connectors that may be stored within the module. A front wall, rear wall, and pair of opposing sidewalls enclose an opening through the module. The pair of opposing sidewalls are disposed between the front wall and rear wall. An inner wall of one opposing sidewall includes mounting locations for receiving an end section of a pair of arms of a holder insert. The mounting locations correspond to a heights along the opening of the module. An inner wall of another opposing sidewall includes opposing mounting locations for receiving an end section of another arm of the holder insert. The opposing mounting locations further correspond to the heights along the opening of the module. The holder insert is mountable at any one of the heights along the opening of the module.