Replaceable Mobile Connector With Segmented Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computer connectors degrade over time due to frequent docking and undocking, leading to connectivity issues and requiring complex and costly replacement processes, which are often not user-replaceable and can result in prolonged downtime for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with a releasable attachment mechanism, such as screws or a mechanical latch, allows for quick replacement of connector pads and pins, and includes seals to prevent contamination, enabling field maintenance and extending the product's lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the connector is ultrasonically welded or glued to the housing, then the connector is securely attached, but the connector cannot be easily replaced when degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is segmented into separable components: the connector body with contacts, the battery door, and the housing. The connector is attached to the battery door via a releasable attachment mechanism (screws or mechanical latch), allowing the connector to be independently replaced without replacing the entire battery door or disassembling the housing. This segmentation enables easy field replacement while maintaining secure attachment during use.
2Ease of repair
If the connector is built into the battery door, then the connector is protected, but replacement requires replacement of the entire battery door
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separable parts: the connector body and the battery door. The releasable attachment mechanism (screws or mechanical latch) allows the connector to be independently removed from the battery door, enabling replacement of only the connector rather than the entire battery door assembly. This reduces replacement complexity and cost.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the connector performs a wiping action by sliding, then dirt is removed from contacts, but wear on contacts increases reducing product lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The wiping function is extracted from the connector itself and transferred to a separate wiping member or cleaning mechanism. This allows the connector contacts to make clean contact without performing the wiping action, thereby reducing wear on the contacts while still removing contaminants through the separate wiping mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a connector body, two or more connector pads within the connector body, and a releasable attachment mechanism for attaching the connector to a mobile computer. The connector may include a seal positioned around the outer edge of the connector body. The connector typically includes two or more connector pins each in contact with a respective connector pad.