Sandwich Package Structure for Portable Storage Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing portable storage devices face challenges in reducing dimensions due to the need for hooks or screws for assembly, and the repeated use of caps can cause USB connectors to bend or wear out.

Innovation Solution

A sandwich package structure comprising a front cap, back cover, and moveable middle frame with inner and outer frames, where the electronic element is held by the middle frame and protected by the caps, eliminating the need for tiny hooks or screws and providing contact-free protection for the USB connector.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If hooks or screws are used to assemble the case, then the assembly is secure, but the dimension of the product cannot be further reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduct dimensionVSAvoidassembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The case is divided into multiple components (front cap, back cover, middle frame) that can be assembled together. The middle frame is further segmented into inner and outer frames that move relative to each other, allowing for a compact structure without requiring additional fastening elements like hooks or screws.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The inner frame is nested within the outer frame, with the circuit board assembled on the inner frame. The front cap and back cover then enclose these nested structures, creating a compact nested arrangement that reduces overall product dimension while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of manufacture

If adhesive or ultra sonic adhering is used to assemble the case, then more manufacturing devices or materials are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly methodVSAvoidmanufacturing materials

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The outer frame is designed to move relative to the inner frame, allowing for a dynamic assembly process where components can be positioned and secured through mechanical movement rather than requiring adhesive or ultra sonic adhering processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the cap directly wraps and contacts the USB connector, then the assembly is simple, but the USB connector bends or wears in a short time due to repeated covering and removing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector durabilityVSAvoidcap structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The front cap serves as an intermediary structure that covers the inner frame rather than directly contacting the USB connector. This intermediate structure protects the USB connector from direct contact and mechanical stress during repeated covering and removing operations, preventing bending and wear.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS7554814B2Portable storage device having a sandwich package structure

Publication Date: 2009.06.30 TRANSCEND INFORMATION

AI summary

A back cover, a middle frame, and a front cap are utilized as a sandwich package for packaging a portable storage device. An electronic element passes through the hollow middle frame and the middle frame holds the electronic element. The back cover covers the back end of the middle frame and the front cap covers the front end of the middle frame for fully packaging the electronic element. A moveable outer frame on the middle frame allows for withstanding the back cover and eliminating the manufacturing dimensional error of the PCB of the electronic element between the PCB and the back cover. The front cap covers the front end of the middle frame instead of the USB connector and provides the USB connector of the portable device more durability.