Sliding Adapter With Flexible Extension For Multi-Connector Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The proliferation of proprietary power and data connectors for portable electronic devices leads to inconvenience due to the need for multiple adapters and cables, with existing multi-plug adapters having concentrated failure points and limited compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A multiple plug sliding adapter with a flexible extension that includes a first connector with a terminal block connected to an upstream cable, a transform adapter movably coupled to the first connector, and a second connector with a terminal block connected to an extension, allowing for different configuration standards and spatial offsetting of the second connector from the transform adapter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple proprietary connectors are used for different devices, then device compatibility is improved, but the number of adapters and cables required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connector types (USB Type-C, USB Type-A, Micro USB, Lightning, and 3.5mm audio jack) into a single adapter unit. This merging allows one adapter to replace multiple separate adapters and cables, providing support for various devices while reducing the total number of components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple purposes: power charging, data transfer, and audio output. It universally supports different connector standards through integrated ports, allowing a single device to fulfill various connectivity needs across different electronic devices.
2Ease of operation
If connectors are concentrated in a single structural unit, then device portability is improved, but the risk of failure points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter incorporates a flexible extension cable that segments the connector assembly into distinct sections. The main body contains some connectors while the flexible extension provides additional connectivity options, allowing the structure to be divided into functional modules that can operate independently if one section fails.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible extension cable introduces dynamic flexibility to the adapter structure. This flexibility allows the adapter to adapt to different spatial configurations and reduces stress concentration at fixed connection points, thereby improving reliability while maintaining portability.
3Device complexity
If the second connector is integrated directly to the transform adapter, then structural simplicity is improved, but spatial interference with other devices occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible extension cable extends the second connector in a different spatial dimension from the main adapter body. This dimensional extension allows the connector to reach devices that would otherwise be spatially interfered with, solving the spatial interference problem while maintaining relative structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple plug sliding adapter is disclosed. A first connector with a first terminal block is connected to an upstream cable. The first terminal block is also connected to a downstream first connector plug. A transform adapter is movably coupled to the first connector, and includes a first connector socket receptive to the first connector plug. An extension that spatially offsets the second connector from the transform adapter is connected to the first connector socket, and extends from the transform adapter. A second connector with a second terminal block is connected to the extension and a downstream second connector plug. The first connector plug and the second connector plug conform to different configuration standards.