Rotatable Connector Socket for Portable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector sockets are bulky, protruding from portable electronic devices, compromising aesthetics and allowing dust entry, which damages internal circuits.
Innovation Solution
A connector socket with a rotatable element and biasing element that automatically adjusts its height when a connector is inserted or removed, reducing volume and preventing dust ingress by using a protrudent portion to pivot the rotatable element between storage and open positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional connector socket is used, then the connector can be connected to transfer power and data, but the connector socket protrudes from the device casing, compromising aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The connector socket is designed with a rotatable element that can dynamically change its position between a protruding state (when connector is inserted) and a recessed state (when connector is removed). This dynamic adjustment allows the socket to adapt its shape according to operational needs, resolving the conflict between connection functionality and aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector socket is divided into multiple components: a stationary casing, a rotatable element, and a biasing element. This segmentation allows independent movement of the rotatable element relative to the casing, enabling the socket to change its external profile while maintaining internal connection functionality.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional connector socket is used, then the connector can be connected for signal transfer, but external substances such as dust can enter through the socket, damaging internal circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable element dynamically closes over the opening when the connector is removed, actively preventing dust ingress. When the connector is inserted, the rotatable element opens to allow connection. This dynamic behavior provides protection against harmful external substances while maintaining ease of connector operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable element acts as an intermediary barrier between the external environment and the internal circuits. It selectively opens to allow connector insertion and closes to prevent dust entry, mediating between the need for connection and the need for protection.
3Volume of stationary object
If the connector socket volume is reduced, then the device appearance is improved, but the connector connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of reducing the socket volume in all dimensions, the invention reduces the vertical dimension (protrusion height) while maintaining adequate horizontal dimensions for reliable connector engagement. The rotatable element provides the connection interface in a compact configuration that preserves connection reliability while improving appearance.
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
The solution minimizes the connector socket's volume, maintains a streamlined appearance of portable electronic devices, and prevents dust from entering, enhancing both form and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the rotatable element automatically rotates from the open position to the storage position via the biasing element
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a connector socket and a portable electronic device using the same. The connector socket is disposed at a casing for connecting a connector. The connector socket includes a rotatable element and a biasing element. The rotatable element is pivotally connected to the casing. The biasing element is coupled to the casing and the rotatable element. The rotatable element has a protrudent portion. When the connector is connected to the connector socket, the connector presses the protrudent portion to allow the rotatable element to automatically rotate from a storage position to an open position. When the connector is separated from the connector socket, the rotatable element automatically rotates from the open position to the storage position via the biasing element.