Rotatable Multi-Connector Cable Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic cables with multiple connectors are cumbersome, prone to damage, and lack standardization, requiring multiple cables for different devices and often resulting in misplaced or damaged adapter tips, which complicates charging and data transfer between various electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A cable design featuring rotatable connectors with multiple plug configurations, including USB, Lightning, and audio connectors, allowing for easy adaptation to different devices and reducing the need for multiple cables by enabling bidirectional communication and power transfer through a single cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate cables are used for different electronic devices, then compatibility with various devices is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to carrying and managing multiple cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple different connector types (USB Type-C, Lightning, Micro-USB, 3.5mm audio jack) into a single multi-functional cable. This merging of previously separate cables into one unified cable reduces the number of cables users need to carry while maintaining compatibility with various electronic devices across different categories.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable is designed with universal multi-functionality by incorporating four different connector types that can interface with various electronic devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and audio devices. This allows a single cable to serve multiple functions and connect to different device types, eliminating the need for device-specific cables.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adapter tips are made removable for flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to misplacement or loss of tips
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing separate removable adapter tips, the patent merges all four connector types into a single integrated cable body. Each connector type is permanently housed in its own dedicated port on the cable, eliminating the need for users to attach or detach adapter tips while maintaining the ability to select different connector types as needed.
3Volume of moving object
If hinged plugs are used for compact storage, then volume is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to damage from being caught by external objects
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is segmented into four distinct connector ports that are fixed to the cable body, allowing each connector to be independently positioned and protected. This segmentation eliminates the need for hinged or folding mechanisms while maintaining compactness, as each connector type has its own dedicated housing location.
4Ease of operation
If inactive plugs are stored outside the cable body, then ease of operation is improved, but object-generated harmful factors worsen due to dirt and fouling
Solution Approach 1:
All four connector types are nested within or integrated into the cable body structure. The connectors are housed in protected compartments or recesses within the cable housing, allowing them to be stored safely inside the cable when not in use while remaining easily accessible when needed. This nesting approach protects connectors from environmental contamination.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable with ends having a body portion enabling rotatable electrical connector plugs to be deployed from a stored position to a ready position. The configuration of the body portion enables the connector plug to be electrically active only in the deployed ready position. The rotation mechanism provides tactile locking sensation. The design of the present cable enables multiple permutations of connector plugs to be provided on either the alpha or beta end of the cable.