Integrated Port Switch Activation via Insertion Tool

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electronic devices face design and manufacturing challenges due to hidden ports for special functionalities, making them more expensive and inconvenient to use when accessing these features is necessary.

Innovation Solution

An integrated port with a recess and terminals for connecting accessories, including a switch that can activate special modes without being triggered by the plug insertion, allowing for concealed integration of activation mechanisms within existing ports.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a hidden switch or data port is provided for special functionalities, then the device can access test or developer modes, but the device becomes harder to design and more expensive to manufacture

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess to special functionalitiesVSAvoiddesign complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the hidden switch functionality with an existing communication port by integrating the switch into the port structure. The switch is positioned within the port's recess area, allowing it to share the same opening and internal space as the communication terminals. This merging eliminates the need for separate hidden openings while maintaining the special functionality access capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The communication port is designed to serve multiple functions: it can connect accessories for general communication purposes through its terminals, and simultaneously provide access to special test or developer modes through the integrated switch. This multi-functionality allows a single port structure to replace what would traditionally require separate provisions for different functionalities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a hidden switch or data port is provided for special functionalities, then the device can access test or developer modes, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess to special functionalitiesVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is integrated into the existing communication port structure, sharing the same recess and opening. This consolidation means that the switch and communication terminals can be manufactured as a single integrated component or assembly, reducing the number of separate manufacturing processes, assembly steps, and associated costs that would be required if they were separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

By designing the port to handle both communication and special functionality activation through a single structure, the device reduces the total component count. Fewer separate components mean lower manufacturing costs due to reduced material usage, simplified production processes, and decreased assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If additional openings are provided for accessing special functionalities, then the device can access test or developer modes conveniently, but the aesthetic form factor is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess convenienceVSAvoidaesthetic form factor

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is positioned within the recess of the existing communication port, which is already an accessible opening on the device. This integration means that the same opening serves dual purposes: allowing accessory connection for communication and providing access to the switch for activating special functionalities. No additional openings or aesthetic compromises are required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of operation

If the switch is positioned close to the opening for easy activation, then the device can be operated conveniently, but the plug insertion may accidentally activate the switch

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswitch activation easeVSAvoidaccidental activation prevention

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is positioned in a specific location within the recess that is distinct from the terminal connection area. The recess is designed with differentiated zones: one area for electrical terminal connections and another area for switch activation. This spatial differentiation within the same opening allows the switch to be accessible while preventing accidental activation during normal plug insertion, as the plug connectors engage with terminals in a different location.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9239633B1System and method for device having internal reset/restart button that is activated via insertion tool accessiable throught single transmission path of plug connection

Publication Date: 2016.01.19 GOOGLE LLC

AI summary

An integrated port for connecting a device with an accessory having a plug is provided. An opening in the device may provide access to a recess of the port for receiving one or more connectors of the plug. The recess may include one or more terminals for electrically coupling with one or more connectors of the plug in a first mode of operation. The recess may also include a switch, which may be activated to change the operational state of the device from the first mode of operation into a second mode of operation that is not intended for general use. The switch may be provided such that insertion of the plug into the recess via the opening electrically couples the one or more terminals of the port with the one or more connectors of the plug without activating the switch.