Rotatable Power Component Keyed Mount Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a flexible and efficient power connection system for computing devices that allows for convenient placement on flat surfaces while maintaining a connection to a power source, especially when the power outlet is distant from the device.

Innovation Solution

A power system comprising a base component and a rotatable power component with a keyed mount mechanism that securely locks into a receptacle, enabling flexible orientation and connection to both the computing device and the power outlet, allowing for adaptive positioning without the need for multiple cables.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a power converter is used to provide power to the computing device, then the device can operate on AC power, but the system becomes less portable and requires a fixed power outlet

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply flexibilityVSAvoidportability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The power component is designed to be rotatable relative to the base component, allowing dynamic adjustment of the power adapter orientation. This enables the user to position the power outlet connection at different angles and directions, providing flexibility in power supply configuration while maintaining a compact form factor that does not require permanent fixed installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the power outlet is distant from the computing device, then power connection is possible, but cable length and clutter increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplacement flexibilityVSAvoidcable management
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rotatable power component allows the cable connection point to be oriented in multiple directions. Users can rotate the power component to align the cable exit toward the power outlet, reducing the need for excessively long cables and minimizing cable clutter across different placement scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The rotation mechanism adds a rotational degree of freedom to the power connection system. This allows the cable to be routed more efficiently in three-dimensional space, reducing cable length requirements and improving cable management by utilizing vertical and angular dimensions rather than only horizontal extension.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If a secure power connection is provided, then power supply stability is improved, but the coupling mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower connection stabilityVSAvoidcoupling mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The keyed mount receptacle and keyed mount features are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide secure, locked engagement in the correct orientation. The keyed features prevent improper insertion and ensure reliable electrical contact, while the asymmetric design allows for easy identification and insertion without requiring complex alignment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism incorporates rotational movement that transitions from a loose insertion state to a locked engagement state. This dynamic coupling process provides secure connection through rotation and locking features, while maintaining simplicity during the insertion and removal operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 system provides a secure and flexible power connection, enabling computing devices to be used comfortably on various surfaces while maintaining a stable power supply, reducing cable clutter and enhancing user convenience.

Implementation Method 1

The keyed mount can include a spring contact configured to contact a terminal included in the base component when the power component is rotated with respect to the base component.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring contact: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The power component is configured to be lockably coupled to the base component when the power component is rotated with respect to the base component.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical locking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS9952630B2Power system including a coupling mechanism
Publication Date: 2018.04.24 GOOGLE LLC
  • US9952630B2 patent drawing
  • US9952630B2 patent drawing
  • US9952630B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one general aspect, an apparatus can include a base component including a keyed mount receptacle, and a power component including a keyed mount configured to be inserted into the keyed mount receptacle. The power component can be configured to be lockably coupled to the base component when the power component is rotated with respect to the base component.