Movable Interface Connector for Recording Device Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing recording devices with interface connector units either expose them on the front face, compromising design freedom, or cover them, which also affects the appearance, limiting design options.
Innovation Solution
A recording device with a movable interface connector unit that can be hidden by a case member, using a holding member with an engaging hook and a bias member to facilitate easy exposure and concealment without a drive source, allowing the unit to be displaced by its own weight or biasing force, enabling movement between hidden and exposed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the interface connector unit is exposed on the front face of the recording device, then the ease of inserting removable medium is improved, but the appearance and design freedom are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The interface connector unit is designed to be movable between an exposed position (for easy insertion of removable medium) and a hidden position (for improved appearance). This dynamic configuration allows the connector to change its state based on usage requirements, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and aesthetic appearance.
2Shape
If the interface connector unit is covered with an openable cover, then the appearance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding a cover structure, the interface connector unit itself is extracted and made movable. The connector can be hidden within the housing when not in use, eliminating the need for a separate cover mechanism while maintaining the appearance benefit.
3Reliability
If a drive source such as a motor is used to move the interface connector unit, then the reliability of movement is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The interface connector unit utilizes its own weight to automatically move from the hidden position to the exposed position when needed. This self-service mechanism eliminates the requirement for external drive sources like motors, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable movement functionality.
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
This configuration enhances design freedom by hiding the interface connector unit when not in use, maintaining a clean appearance while allowing simple and efficient operation for exposure and concealment, eliminating the need for a motor and enabling movement in any direction.
Implementation Method 1
a bias member that assists displacement of the interface connector unit from the hidden position to the exposed position
Implementation Method 2
the interface connector unit is displaced from the hidden position to the exposed position by a weight of the interface connector unit itself
Data Source
AI summary
A printer includes a body case and an interface connector unit that is movable between a hidden position where the interface connector unit is hidden by the body case and an exposed position where the interface connector unit is exposed from the body case.