Multi-Port Connector Cap Assembly for Retractable Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable data accessing devices with dual or multi-port interfaces face issues of connector damage due to exposure when not in use, as they lack independent retractable and protective mechanisms for different ports.
Innovation Solution
A multi-port interface design featuring moving-caps that can be independently extended or retracted using a pump-action mechanism, assisted by grips, and secured by locking/releasing mechanisms to protect connectors in dormant or active states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If connectors are exposed while not in use to maintain accessibility, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to increased risk of damage from collision with objects or environment
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to dynamically change its state between exposed and retracted positions. A moving cap assembly allows the connector to be extended when needed for operation and retracted when not in use to avoid damage. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction by providing both accessibility when required and protection when not required.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is segmented into multiple independent components: the connector, the moving cap assembly, and the housing. The moving cap can independently move to expose or protect the connector without affecting other parts. This segmentation allows the connector to be protected separately from the main device body while maintaining operational accessibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are provided on a data accessing device to support new interfaces, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple exposed connectors requiring independent protection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connectors are combined within a single moving cap assembly. The moving cap simultaneously protects multiple connectors (e.g., USB-A and USB-C) that are housed together in one protective enclosure. This merging approach maintains multi-port adaptability while reducing the number of separate protection mechanisms needed compared to having individual protective covers for each connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving cap assembly serves multiple functions: it protects multiple different connector types (USB-A, USB-C, Lightning, etc.), provides a unified operational interface for extending connectors, and maintains a compact protective structure. This multi-functionality allows the device to support various interfaces without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Reliability
If connectors are retracted to protect them from damage, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional steps required to expose connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The connector protection mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The moving cap can be quickly extended or retracted with a simple user action, allowing the connector to transition between protected and accessible states. This dynamic design minimizes the operational steps required while maintaining reliable protection when the connector is not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving cap assembly is designed to be easily manipulated by the user without requiring additional tools or complex procedures. The connector protection and exposure are self-service operations that the user can perform independently and quickly, reducing the operational burden while maintaining connector reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable data accessing device and more particularly the use of multi-port interfaces on a data accessing device disclosed. The multi-port data accessing device includes an inner body, one or a plurality of moving-caps, one or a plurality of grips, a pump-action and one or a plurality of locking/releasing mechanisms.