Retractable Pin Module Assembly With Nested Magnets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing module assembly designs face issues with protruding pins being easily damaged, restricted coupling order, and exposed magnets, which complicates assembly and increases the risk of damage.
Innovation Solution
The module assembly incorporates a pin and magnet system where pins can retract and magnets are housed within the modules, allowing for flexible assembly order and protection from external impacts, with pins protruding only when modules are in contact, enabling secure and convenient coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a protruding member is provided to couple modules, then modules can be connected, but the protruding member is exposed to outside and may be easily damaged by external impact
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding member is nested within a cavity in the module body when not in use, and only extends outward when another module is being coupled. This nesting protects the protruding member from external damage while maintaining its functionality for module connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding member is designed to be movable rather than fixed, extending only when needed for coupling and retracting when not in use. This dynamic behavior reduces exposure time and protects the member from continuous external impact.
2Ease of operation
If a protruding member is provided to couple modules, then modules can be connected, but the coupling direction is restricted and modules need to be assembled in a predetermined order
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple protruding members are provided on different sides of each module, allowing the module to couple with other modules from various directions. This universal coupling capability eliminates the need for predetermined assembly order and allows flexible arrangement of modules.
3Strength
If magnets are provided to maintain coupling between modules, then modules can be securely connected, but the magnets are exposed outside and may come out or be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The magnets are housed within cavities in the module bodies, nested inside the module structure rather than being exposed on the exterior. This nesting protects the magnets from damage and prevents them from becoming detached, while still allowing them to function for maintaining coupling between modules.
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
This design enhances the durability of the assembly by protecting pins and magnets, simplifies the assembly process, and allows modules to be connected in any order, reducing the risk of damage and improving user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet may be provided in a space between the pin installation portion and the pin receiver, and configured to maintain a state in which the pin is received in the housing
Data Source
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Figure 3(a)~3(c)
AI summary
Provided are a module assembly, a connector, and an electronic device, the module assembly including a first module that includes a pin configured to selectively protrude from a side thereof, a pin installation portion in which the pin is installed to be movable, and a first magnet configured to attract the pin into the pin installation portion, a second module to be coupled to the first module, the second module including a pin receiver configured to receive the pin when the pin protrudes from the first module, and a second magnet configured to attract the pin into the pin receiver, wherein the second magnet is configured to apply, to the pin, a greater magnitude of magnetic force than the first magnet in a case in which a distance between the first module and the second module is less than a preset distance.