Magnetic Flash Drive Pen Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pens with data storage devices, such as removable flash drives, face issues with bulky designs due to screw fittings and require two-handed operation for separation and reassembly, making it inconvenient to remove the flash drive without taking the pen out of a pocket.
Innovation Solution
A pen design featuring a ferromagnetic magnet-based connection system that allows easy removal and replacement of the data storage device, utilizing a permanent magnet to securely hold the USB interface in place, enabling one-handed operation and a compact form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw fitting is used to connect the flash drive to the pen body, then the connection is secure, but the pen becomes bulky and requires two-handed operation for assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical screw fitting system with a magnetic connection system. The magnet embedded in the receiving portion creates magnetic attraction forces that securely hold the USB interface in place, eliminating the need for threaded mechanical fasteners. This substitution maintains connection reliability while enabling easy one-handed assembly and disassembly operations.
2Strength
If a screw fitting with sufficient diameter is used to secure the USB interface, then the connection is strong, but the pen size increases and becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic connection system replaces the bulky screw fitting mechanism, allowing strong connection forces to be achieved within a compact volume. The magnetic field generates sufficient holding force without requiring the large diameter structural elements needed for mechanical screw connections, thus maintaining connection strength while minimizing pen size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of connection force generation from mechanical thread engagement to magnetic field interaction. By adjusting magnetic field strength and distribution, the system achieves strong connection forces within a compact space, avoiding the volume increase associated with large-diameter screw fittings.
3Ease of manufacture
If a friction fit fastening is used, then the assembly is simple, but the connection strength is insufficient and two-handed operation is still required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the friction fit mechanical system with a magnetic connection system. The magnetic attraction provides significantly stronger holding forces than friction alone, while maintaining the simplicity of the assembly process. Users can easily assemble and disassemble the flash drive with one hand, and the connection remains secure during normal use.
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
Enables easy and convenient removal and replacement of the data storage device without needing to remove the pen from a pocket, providing a compact and user-friendly experience.
Implementation Method 1
the receiving portion comprises a magnet such that the magnet releasably connects the receiving portion to the data storage device
Implementation Method 2
the data transfer interface comprises a ferromagnetic material
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A writing implement comprising a body portion having a writing tip; and a removable portion comprising a flash drive having a USB interface, wherein the body portion comprises a receiving portion for receiving the USB interface, and wherein the receiving portion comprises a magnet such that the magnet releasably connects the receiving portion to the flash drive.