Plug Module Sliding Element Releases Positioning Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional plug modules are difficult to remove from sockets, especially when space is occupied by other peripherals or plugs, requiring force and sometimes auxiliary tools.

Innovation Solution

A plug module design featuring a positioning element and a sliding element that allows interference release between the positioning element and the socket's position limiting structure, facilitated by a slip-proof element and a runner for easy sliding, enabling convenient plugging and unplugging without specific directional force.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the plug is designed to be firmly connected with the socket after plugging-in, then the connection stability is improved, but the ease of removing the plug deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidease of removing the plug
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic sheet is designed to be deformable, allowing it to dynamically change its shape during plugging and unplugging operations. When plugging in, the elastic sheet deforms to allow protrusions to enter the socket openings, then returns to its original shape to firmly connect the plug. When unplugging, the elastic sheet deforms again to release the connection, providing both stability during use and ease of removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection mechanism is segmented into multiple protrusions and corresponding openings, allowing the plug to be disconnected at multiple points simultaneously. This segmentation enables the plug to be removed more easily compared to a single-point connection, while maintaining stable connection when engaged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the plug module is firmly connected to the socket, then the connection reliability is improved, but the difficulty of unplugging increases when space is occupied by other peripherals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidease of unplugging
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic sheet provides dynamic deformation capability that allows the plug to be firmly connected when space is available, yet still be easily removed even when surrounded by other peripherals. The elastic material absorbs the mechanical stress required for removal without requiring excessive force from the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The physical state of the elastic sheet changes during the plugging and unplugging process. The sheet transitions between deformed and restored states, changing its mechanical properties to facilitate both firm connection and easy removal regardless of spatial constraints imposed by surrounding peripherals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 easy and practical plugging and unplugging of the plug module from sockets without the need for applying force in a specific direction or using auxiliary tools, enhancing user convenience and accessibility.

Implementation Method 1

The positioning element includes at least one elastic element, each of the elastic elements is connected with the body and has a leaning portion and a positioning portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8029306B2Plug module
Publication Date: 2011.10.04 ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC
  • US8029306B2 patent drawing
  • US8029306B2 patent drawing
  • US8029306B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A plug module disposed at the end of a cable is used for assembling in a socket, and the socket has a connecting portion and a position limiting structure on the connecting portion. The plug module includes a body, a positioning element, and a sliding element. The body is connected with the connecting portion in a connecting direction. The positioning element disposed on the body is interfered the position limiting structure. The sliding element is slidingly disposed at a side of the body adjacent to the cable, and it is suited for driving the positioning element to release the interference between the positioning element and the position limiting structure.