Replaceable Connection Modules for High-Use Electronic Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft USB receptacles experience high wear and tear due to frequent connection and disconnection, leading to a need for frequent replacement, which is costly and time-consuming, and passengers may inadvertently tamper with or remove these components, making it desirable to have a solution that allows for easy maintenance while preventing passenger access.
Innovation Solution
A replaceable connection module system that includes a port for receiving signals and power from a controller, with conductors connecting the port to a USB receptacle, allowing for easy replacement by maintenance personnel while being secure from passenger tampering, and a power regulation system that allocates power to the receptacles, reducing wear and extending the service life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If USB receptacles are made replaceable for easy maintenance, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components and installation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The USB receptacle system is divided into separate modular components: a receptacle assembly that can be independently removed and replaced from the aircraft seatback. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to replace only the worn receptacle module without replacing the entire seatback or power distribution system, significantly improving ease of repair while the standardized interface keeps complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
A connector assembly acts as an intermediary between the receptacle module and the power distribution system. This intermediary component facilitates easy connection and disconnection during maintenance while managing the electrical and mechanical interfaces, thereby improving repairability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
2Reliability
If receptacles are made secure to prevent passenger tampering, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates for maintenance personnel
Solution Approach 1:
Different security mechanisms are applied to different parts of the system: the receptacle assembly is securely mounted within the seatback structure to prevent passenger removal, while the connector assembly incorporates user-friendly latching mechanisms that allow maintenance personnel to easily disconnect and replace modules. This localized differentiation of security features maintains reliability against tampering while preserving ease of operation for authorized maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly employs a dynamic latching system that can be engaged to secure the receptacle during normal operation (preventing passenger tampering) and disengaged by maintenance personnel for replacement. This dynamic security mechanism adapts between operational security and maintenance accessibility states
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification describes a replaceable connection module. The replaceable connection module includes a port to receive signals and power from a controller and at least one receptacle to provide received signals and power to a connected electronic device. The module also includes a plurality of conductors connecting the port with at least one receptacle. Control of the signals and power at the at least one receptacle is performed by the controller.