Self-Ejectable Port Fixing Device with Dynamic Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing USB port fixing devices face issues with secure fixation and easy insertion/extraction, as they often result in a tight interference fit leading to unstable connections and potential port detachment due to deformation limitations.
Innovation Solution
A self-ejectable port fixing device with an elastic unit and locking mechanism that accumulates and releases elastic potential energy to automatically fix and eject the port, utilizing a stopper and supporting unit for secure clamping and easy detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an interference fit is formed between the inner wall of the casing and the outer wall of the port casing to fix the USB port steadily, then the USB port is securely fixed and not easy to fall off, but the engagement becomes too tight leading to difficulty in insertion and extraction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic locking mechanism with a movable locking component that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The locking component is biased by a spring and can be actuated to engage or disengage from the port, providing dynamic control over the interference fit rather than a static fixed state. This allows easy insertion when unlocked and secure retention when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage when the port is inserted and automatically lock into place without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded locking component self-actuates based on the insertion motion, and the mechanism also provides self-release capability through a release button that triggers the locking component to disengage, enabling easy removal.
2Reliability
If the casing is made with good elasticity to enable restoration after deformation, then the USB port can be fixed through elastic deformation, but after too many insertion/extraction cycles the deformation is not readily restored leading to poor contact and unstable signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fixing function into two separate components: the casing provides structural support and guidance, while a dedicated locking component provides the retention force. This segmentation means the locking mechanism bears the mechanical stress of repeated engagement cycles rather than the casing's elastic deformation, preserving the casing's ability to maintain stable contact over long durations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking component acts as an intermediary between the port and the casing, absorbing the mechanical wear and deformation from repeated insertion and extraction cycles. This protects the main casing structure from cumulative damage and maintains stable electrical contact between the receptacle chip and port chip over extended use.
3Reliability
If the receptacle chip is positioned close to the inner wall of the casing for tight contact, then good signal contact is achieved, but the port becomes difficult to extract and may damage the casing
Solution Approach 1:
The release button mechanism allows the user to easily trigger the unlocking action with minimal force. When pressed, the release button actuates the locking component to disengage from the port, enabling simple one-handed removal without requiring forceful pulling that could damage the casing or disrupt the close positioning of the receptacle chip.
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 device ensures secure port fixation without easy detachment, facilitates easy insertion and extraction, and prevents damage by using automatic clamping and releasing mechanisms, improving signal stability and port retention.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic unit is compressed directly or indirectly by the port so as to accumulate elastic potential energy as the port chip is getting closer to the receptacle chip
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention provides a self-ejectable port fixing device for contact connecting with a port having a port chip. The port fixing device comprises a casing having an opening through which the port chip is allowed to insert and to contact with a receptacle chip provided in the casing. The port fixing device further comprises an elastic unit and a locking unit. The elastic unit is compressed directly or indirectly by the port so as to accumulate elastic potential energy while the port chip is getting closer to the receptacle chip. When the port chip is in contact with the receptacle chip, the locking unit locks the port chip at this contacting position. When the locking unit is unlocked, the elastic unit releases the elastic potential energy to push the port chip to be detached from the receptacle chip. (Fig.1A)