Rotatable Port Replicator for Multi-Device Terminal Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing port replicators are limited in their ability to connect multiple electronic devices of different types due to variations in terminal shape and position, requiring separate replicators for each device type, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A port replicator design featuring a rotatable body with elastic components and positioning pins that can adjust to accommodate various electronic devices, allowing for universal connection by rotating the terminal to the appropriate angle and position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed terminal configuration is used in the port replicator, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but multiple electronic devices of different types cannot be connected
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is made rotatable about a rotation axis, transforming from a fixed configuration to a dynamic one. The elastic body applies rotational force to position the terminal at appropriate angles for different electronic devices, enabling multiple device types to connect without changing the replicator structure
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable terminal mechanism allows a single port replicator to accommodate multiple types of electronic devices by adjusting the terminal orientation, making the device universal rather than device-specific
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate port replicators are provided for each electronic device type, then each device can be connected reliably, but the number of devices and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single port replicator with a rotatable terminal can connect to multiple types of electronic devices by adjusting the terminal angle, replacing the need for multiple dedicated replicators for different device types
3Adaptability or versatility
If the terminal is made rotatable to connect different devices, then compatibility improves, but the structural complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is designed to rotate about a fixed rotation axis with an elastic body providing the rotational force. This dynamic design allows terminal adjustment while maintaining a relatively simple structure that is easier to manufacture compared to more complex adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic body automatically positions the terminal at the appropriate angle through its rotational force, reducing the need for complex control mechanisms and simplifying the overall assembly process
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
Enables the connection of multiple electronic device types with a single port replicator, reducing costs and improving usability by allowing adjustable terminal orientation and enhanced connection stability.
Implementation Method 1
one or more elastic bodies attached to the body and pressing the body in a predetermined rotation direction
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a port replicator including: a body having an opening; a terminal accommodated in the body and exposed from the opening; a shaft provided in the body; a retainer that rotatably holds the body about a rotation axis of the shaft; and one or more elastic bodies attached to the body and pressing the body in a predetermined rotation direction.