Lock-in Device for Network Cables with Elastic Seesaw

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lock-in devices for network cables require separate operations for unlocking and removing, which can lead to security vulnerabilities and inconvenience.

Innovation Solution

A lock-in device with a through hole for modular connectors and an adjacent locker hole for a key, featuring an elastic seesaw mechanism and displaceable pieces, allowing simultaneous unlocking and removal by engaging the key's reverse U-shape and protrusions for secure and efficient operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional lock-in device requires separate operations for unlocking and removing, then the locking mechanism is secure, but the operation process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation processVSAvoidtime for unlocking and removing
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the unlocking and removing operations into a single integrated action. The key structure features an inclined surface that, when inserted and pressed, simultaneously triggers the release mechanism and enables removal of the modular connector. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate unlocking and removing steps, directly resolving the technical contradiction between operational simplicity and time efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Device complexity

If a lock-in device uses separate unlocking and removing operations, then the control is precise, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidoperation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into a single key structure and operation sequence. The key includes an inclined surface that works with the holding section to simultaneously achieve unlocking and removal. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and operational steps, thereby reducing device complexity while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic elements such as the elastic seesaw mechanism and displaceable holding section that respond automatically to the key's insertion and pressing action. These dynamic components enable the system to transition smoothly between locked and unlocked states through a single continuous motion, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining operational convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the lock-in device allows easy removal, then the usability is improved, but the security may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidremoval convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a key as an intermediary tool that mediates between security and ease of removal. The key's inclined surface acts as a mediator that triggers the release mechanism, allowing authorized users to easily remove the connector while maintaining security against unauthorized access. The key structure itself serves as the intermediary that enables controlled ease of operation without compromising security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 secure and convenient simultaneous unlocking and removal of network cable connectors, enhancing security and usability while being eco-friendly with recyclable plastic materials.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic piece extending upwards from the positioning portion for a front end of the elastic piece to abut on the second depression and therefore providing an elastic force for the holding section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9735506B2Lock-in device for network cables
Publication Date: 2017.08.15 YOU HUNG INT CO LTD
  • US9735506B2 patent drawing
  • US9735506B2 patent drawing
  • US9735506B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lock-in device for network cables includes a locker, a holding section, and an elastic seesaw. The locker has a through hole for modular connectors to engage therein and to be removed therefrom and a locker hole parallel to the through hole for a key to be inserted therein; an extended end is arranged at a rear end of the locker hole and a space and a fillister with an inclined surface are arranged adjacent to the locker hole. The holding section is disposed in the space with a first depression facing upward at a front end thereof and a second depression facing downward at a rear end thereof. The elastic seesaw has a positioning portion at a rear end thereof extending upwards and forming an elastic piece abutting the second depression for the holding section to be operated by the elasticity. The device thereby enables simultaneous operation of unlocking and removing.