Removable Connector Assembly for Portable Device Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional external devices, such as external hard drives, limit user mobility due to the need for cables that anchor users to a single workspace, restricting movement when connected to a portable computing device.
Innovation Solution
A removable mechanical connection system comprising a primary connector with a guide slot, tab-receiving aperture, and tab-rotation aperture, and a secondary connector with a spacer portion, allowing the portable device and external accessory to be securely attached and easily separated, enabling mobility while maintaining data communication through a short cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cables are used to connect external devices to portable computing devices, then data communication is established, but user mobility is limited and users are anchored to one workspace
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two separate connectors: a primary connector that adheres to the portable computing device and a secondary connector that attaches to the external device. This segmentation eliminates the need for long cables by creating discrete, modular connection points that can be positioned independently, thereby improving user mobility while maintaining data communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The primary and secondary connectors serve as intermediary mechanical connection points between the portable computing device and the external device. Instead of using cables as the intermediary, these connectors provide a direct mechanical link that allows users to move freely while maintaining a stable connection, thus resolving the mobility limitation imposed by traditional cable-based systems.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical connection systems are implemented to restore mobility, then users can move freely, but the connection must be secure yet easily separable
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates dynamic elements including a tab that can rotate within the primary connector, and stops that engage at specific positions. The tab can be rotated to lock the connection in place, providing secure attachment, and can be rotated again to disengage, enabling easy separation. This dynamic mechanism allows the connection to transition between locked and unlocked states, simultaneously achieving both connection security and ease of separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional components: a tab for engagement, rotation apertures for movement, and stops for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently - the tab provides the engagement interface, the rotation apertures guide the movement, and the stops define the locked positions - thereby enabling both secure connection and easy separation through coordinated action of these segmented elements.
3Ease of operation
If connectors are designed with rotation capability for easy attachment, then mobility is enhanced, but the connector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The primary connector is designed to perform multiple functions within a single structure: it provides mechanical attachment through the tab-receiving aperture, enables rotation through the tab-rotation aperture, and defines engagement positions through the forward and rear stops. This multi-functionality allows the connector to achieve easy attachment and secure locking without requiring multiple separate components, thereby reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design merges the attachment, rotation, and positioning functions into a single integrated structure. The tab, rotation aperture, and stops are combined into one cohesive assembly rather than being separate components. This merging simplifies the overall connector structure by eliminating the need for multiple independent parts, while still providing the full range of motions and functions needed for easy and secure connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for removably making a mechanical connection with a portable device, includes a primary connector configured to be adhered to a surface, the primary connector includes a plate defining a guide slot, a tab-receiving aperture, and a tab-rotation aperture. The system further includes a secondary connector configured to be adhered to a portable device. The secondary connector includes a spacer portion disposed between a base wall and a tab. The tab-receiving aperture is configured to receive the tab of the secondary connector and the tab-rotation aperture is configured to allow rotation of the tab of at least one-quarter turn.