Interface Connector Covering Power Source Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices with both power source and interface connectors face issues of increased component count and size due to separate power supply and interface configurations, leading to potential power backflow and damage when excess power is supplied from external sources.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device design featuring a detachable power source connector and a support member that covers and hides the power source connector when an interface connector with a power supply terminal is attached, preventing simultaneous power supply from both sources and simplifying wiring with PoweredUSB standards for enhanced power delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If both power source connector and interface connector with power supply terminal are provided, then power supply flexibility is improved, but risk of power backflow and device damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
A cover member is introduced as an intermediary element between the power source connector and the interface connector with power supply terminal. This cover member physically blocks the power source connector when the interface connector is connected, preventing simultaneous connection of both power sources and eliminating power backflow risk while maintaining the flexibility to choose different power supply modes
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate power source connector and interface connector are disposed, then power supply options are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover member is integrated with either the interface connector assembly or the power source connector, merging the covering function with existing components. This eliminates the need for separate blocking mechanisms and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining multiple power supply options
3Object-affected harmful factors
If blocking units are made moveable to prevent power backflow, then power protection is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover member is designed with movable capability to transition between covering and non-covering positions of the power source connector. This dynamic design allows the cover to adapt to different operational states (interface connector connected vs. not connected) while maintaining compact dimensions by only occupying space when needed
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a first opening disposed in a casing; a power source connector disposed opposing the first opening and to which a detachable power supply plug that supplies power from a power supply unit is attached; a second opening disposed in the casing; and a support member by which at least one interface connector among various types of interface connectors for communication with an external apparatus can be attached at the second opening, where the support member covers and hides the power source connector if among the various types of interface connectors, an interface connector having a power supply terminal is attached.