HDD Connector Shock Absorption via Deformable Buffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional broadcast receivers with flexible cables to connect modules like hard disk drives (HDDs) to circuit boards increase manufacturing complexity and costs, and fail to effectively absorb shock loads during falls or external forces.
Innovation Solution
A broadcast receiver design featuring a housing with a recess for the HDD, a holder with deformable buffers, and connectors that allow the HDD to move between positions, absorbing shock through plastic deformation of the buffers while maintaining electrical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flexible cable is used to connect the module to the circuit board, then the shock load can be absorbed, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the flexible cable from the system by implementing a rigid connector design with built-in shock absorption mechanisms. The connector directly couples the module to the circuit board without requiring intermediate flexible cables, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining shock protection through alternative means such as cushioning structures or shock-absorbing materials integrated into the connector housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the shock absorption function with the rigid connector structure itself. Instead of using a separate flexible cable for shock protection, the connector is designed to inherently absorb shocks through its structural design, combining the electrical connection function and shock protection function into a single integrated component.
2Reliability
If a flexible cable is used to connect the module to the circuit board, then the shock load can be absorbed, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the flexible cable component from the assembly, eliminating the need to source, stock, and assemble this separate part. The rigid connector design simplifies the bill of materials and reduces manufacturing steps, directly lowering production costs while achieving equivalent or superior shock protection through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple, inexpensive rigid connector design that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. The connector uses common materials and standard manufacturing processes, making it more cost-effective than expensive flexible cables while maintaining adequate shock absorption for the application's lifecycle.
3Device complexity
If the module is fixed rigidly to the circuit board, then the device complexity is reduced, but the shock load protection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates shock absorption features directly into the rigid connector design before shock events occur. This may include cushioning materials, compliant elements, or structural features built into the connector that activate during shock events, providing proactive protection rather than reactive measures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite construction for the connector, combining rigid materials for structural integrity with softer, shock-absorbing materials integrated into the connector body. This composite approach allows the connector to maintain rigidity for electrical connection while incorporating shock-absorbing properties to protect against harmful forces.
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 design reduces excessive loads on the HDD, enhances protection against shocks and falls, and simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need for additional components like flexible cables.
Implementation Method 1
The buffer is configured to be bent along with the movement of the module from the first position to the second position
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a broadcast receiver includes a housing, a circuit board, a module, a holder, and a buffer. The housing is provided with a wall. The circuit board is housed in the housing and includes a first connector. The module includes a second connector to be electrically connected to the first connector and fits to the first connector with a gap therebetween. The module is movable between a first position where the length of connected portions of the first connector and the second connector is short and a second position where the length of the connected portions is long. The holder holds the module. The buffer is provided to the holder and is bent along with the movement of the module from the first position to the second position.