HDMI Connector Retention Apparatus for Accidental Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
HDMI connectors are prone to accidental disconnection and breakage due to their friction lock mechanism and vulnerability to excessive force, which poses challenges in retail and other environments.
Innovation Solution
A retention apparatus comprising a body portion attached to the HDMI device with a bracket and fin structure that secures the HDMI connector and cable using cable ties or similar bundling means, providing a stable and secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a friction lock mechanism is used for the HDMI connector, then the connector size can be reduced and it becomes more consumer-oriented, but the connector becomes prone to accidental disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a retention apparatus as an intermediary component between the HDMI connector and the device. This apparatus includes a body portion with a receptacle that receives the connector, and a retention mechanism that actively holds the connector in place, preventing accidental disconnection while maintaining the compact friction lock design
2Device complexity
If a friction lock mechanism is used for the HDMI connector, then the connector design is simplified, but the connector becomes vulnerable to breakage from excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The retention apparatus performs preliminary action by pre-positioning and pre-securing the connector in a protected state before any external force is applied. The retention mechanism is already in place to absorb and distribute excessive force, preventing breakage before it occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The retention apparatus provides beforehand cushioning by creating a protective structure around the connector. The body portion and retention mechanism act as a cushioning system that absorbs and distributes excessive force, protecting the vulnerable friction lock connector from breakage
3Ease of operation
If the connector is designed for easy insertion and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but accidental disconnection becomes more likely
Solution Approach 1:
The retention apparatus applies dynamics by implementing a retention mechanism that can adapt between two states: a secure holding state during normal operation that prevents accidental disconnection, and a release state when intentional removal force is applied. This dynamic behavior allows the system to maintain reliability while preserving ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for positioning and retaining an HDMI connector relative to an HDMI device comprises a body portion connected to the HDMI device and comprising a sidewall having an aperture through which a plug portion of the HDMI connector is insertable into a receptacle of the HDMI device and a bracket portion comprising a floor connected along a bottom edge of the sidewall and extending perpendicularly thereto. The bracket further comprises a support connected along an edge of the floor opposite the sidewall and extending upwardly from and perpendicularly to the floor and a fin connected along an edge of the support opposite the floor and extending perpendicularly to the support, the fin including a pair of openings disposed therethrough, the pair of openings corresponding to the aperture. Means are provided for securing a cable portion of the HDMI connector to the fin via the pair of openings when the plug portion is secured in the receptacle.