Motorized Connector Extraction for Electronic Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in quickly and accurately connecting cables to the appropriate connectors in electronic equipment, particularly in audio and video systems, due to the complexity of identifying the correct input source, leading to potential incorrect connections and frustration.
Innovation Solution
A system that extracts or opens connectors based on user-selected input sources using a motor control unit and system software, allowing easy cable connection by pulling the connector back inside after a predetermined duration, which can be adjusted by the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are provided for different input sources, then the system can support multiple signal sources, but the user cannot easily identify and connect to the correct connector
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically extracting the specific connector corresponding to the selected input source before the user needs to connect. The microprocessor identifies which connector belongs to the selected input source and activates the motor to extract that connector in advance, eliminating the need for users to manually identify the correct connector among multiple options.
Solution Approach 2:
The system serves itself by automatically managing connector extraction based on user selection. When a user selects an input source through the interface, the microprocessor autonomously determines the corresponding connector and activates the motor to extract it, without requiring user intervention to physically locate or identify the correct connector.
2Measurement precision
If users manually identify and connect cables to connectors, then connection accuracy can be achieved, but the process takes more than an hour and is difficult for non-experts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of connector identification and cable connection with an automated electromechanical system. The microprocessor controls a motor to automatically extract the correct connector, substituting the time-consuming manual search and identification process with rapid automated mechanical action that maintains connection accuracy while dramatically reducing time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor acts as an intermediary between the user's selection and the physical connector extraction. Instead of users directly manipulating connectors, the motor mediates the process by automatically retrieving and presenting the correct connector, bridging the gap between digital selection and physical connection while eliminating manual search time.
3Device complexity
If connectors remain inside the cabinet, then the system maintains a compact structure, but users cannot easily access and connect cables
Solution Approach 1:
The connector positioning system transitions from a static to a dynamic state. Connectors are kept inside the cabinet structure when not in use, maintaining a compact form factor. When needed, the motor dynamically extracts the specific connector to an accessible position, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements without permanently increasing its footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts only the specific connector needed for the selected input source from the cabinet, rather than requiring all connectors to be permanently accessible. This selective extraction maintains the compact cabinet structure while providing easy access to the relevant connector when required, removing unnecessary connectors from the user's interaction space.
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 effortless and time-efficient cable connections to the correct connectors, accessible to non-experts, reducing the likelihood of incorrect connections and enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
controlling a motor control unit to activate a motor to extract the connector from the cabinet
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to a system for connecting cables (12) to connectors of an electronic equipment either by extracting out a connector or by opening a cover of a connector based on an input source selected by an end user. According to a preferred embodiment, the system comprises of plurality of connectors (1,2 & 3) that can be activated by a plurality of motors (4, 5 & 6) to extract out (13) the specific connector (1,2 & 3) from a cabinet in which plurality of connectors (1,2 & 3) are inserted. According to further preferred embodiment, the system comprises of plurality of connectors (1, 2 & 3) and pllurality of covers (15, 16 &17). The specific covers (15, 16 &17) of the specific connector (1,2 & 3) can be opened by the plurality of motors (4, 5 & 6). The opening of cover of the specific connector (1, 2 & 3) or extraction of the specific connector (1, 2 & 3) out from its position is performed based on the input source selected by the end user.