Optical Indicator Connector Module for Low-Light Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in identifying the correct connecting modules on electronic devices, especially in crowded and poorly lit environments, leading to prolonged operation times and potential misidentification due to small or obscured printed numbers or symbols.
Innovation Solution
A connecting module with optical indication, featuring a switch and light-emitting diode (LED) indicators that illuminate when a connector is correctly engaged, guiding the user to the appropriate connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple connecting modules are arranged close to each other to save space, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because users cannot easily identify the correct connector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical indicators that emit different colors or illuminate to indicate the operational status of each connecting module. When a connector is correctly identified or selected, the corresponding optical indicator changes color or lights up, providing visual feedback to the user. This allows users to quickly distinguish between multiple adjacent connectors without requiring physical space separation or complex labeling.
2Area of stationary object
If printed numbers or symbols are made small to fit limited space, then the area occupied is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates because users cannot clearly read the identifiers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual system of printed identifiers with an optical indication system. Instead of relying on small printed numbers or symbols that are difficult to read, the system uses illuminated optical indicators that actively emit light to display connector status. This substitution transforms passive visual information into active optical signals that are easily distinguishable regardless of size or ambient lighting conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical indicator serves as an intermediary between the connector and the user. Rather than requiring direct visual inspection of small printed labels, the optical indicator mediates the identification process by providing amplified, illuminated visual cues that make connector identification accurate and effortless even in confined spaces.
3Ease of operation
If optical indicators are added to each connector to improve identification, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical indicators are integrated into the existing connector structure, serving multiple functions: indicating connector status, guiding user operation, and providing feedback on connection state. By making the optical indication system multi-functional and integrating it with the connector itself rather than adding separate independent components, the patent minimizes the increase in device complexity while maximizing the improvement in ease of operation.
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 quick and accurate identification of connectors even in limited space and low light conditions, reducing operational errors and time spent on connector identification.
Implementation Method 1
each first connector includes a base, a switch and an optical indicator... enable the optical indicator for indicating the connection status of the first connector
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting module with optical indication for being disposed on an electronic device is disclosed. The connecting module includes multiple first connectors disposed adjacently, and each first connector includes a base, a switch and an optical indicator. The base has an accommodating space, and the switch is disposed at a side wall of the accommodating space. When a second connector is connected to the first connector, a plug of the second connector is inserted into the accommodating space and triggers the switch so as to enable the optical indicator for indicating a connection status of the first connector.