Spring-Biased Connector Bracket for Vibration-Stable Cable Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable connectors in electronic devices are prone to disconnection due to vibrations, especially in mobile or portable devices, as conventional retention features like bail latches and spring-loaded snaps fail to provide stable engagement and re-seating forces against lateral and torsional forces.
Innovation Solution
A connector bracket with a body and harness system, stabilized by biasing members such as U-shaped springs, that securely engages cable connectors in multiple directions, providing a positive re-seating force to maintain connection despite vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional retention features like bail latches and spring-loaded snaps are used to join cable connectors to devices, then the connectors can be easily installed and removed, but the connectors become sensitive to vibration and disconnect under vibrational stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic retention system where a resilient member (spring) continuously applies force to maintain engagement between the cable connector and device connector. This dynamic mechanism adapts to vibrational forces by allowing controlled movement while maintaining connection pressure, unlike static retention features that fail under vibration. The resilient member compresses and expands to counteract vibrational stresses, ensuring reliable connection while permitting easy installation and removal through simple insertion and extraction motions.
2Device complexity
If simple connector designs are used to reduce complexity, then manufacturing and assembly are easier, but the connectors lack the structural support needed to resist lateral and torsional forces during vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the strength-deficiency problem by introducing a multi-directional retention approach. The resilient member provides retention force not only in the axial direction (easy installation/removal) but also in lateral and torsional dimensions through its resilient properties and geometric configuration. The bracket structure extends in multiple directions to engage with corresponding features on the cable connector, creating a three-dimensional engagement system that resists forces from various directions while maintaining overall design simplicity.
3Device complexity
If no retention feature is used to reduce device complexity, then the device structure is simpler, but the cable connector becomes unstable and prone to disconnection under lateral and torsional forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-regulating retention system where the resilient member automatically adjusts its force output based on the engagement state and external forces applied. When the cable connector is properly inserted, the resilient member compresses to provide optimal retention force. Under vibrational or lateral forces, the resilient member dynamically adjusts to maintain engagement without requiring external control mechanisms. This self-service approach ensures connector stability while keeping the overall device structure simple, as the retention function is inherent to the connector assembly itself rather than requiring separate active control systems.
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 connector bracket effectively stabilizes cable connectors in X-, Y-, and Z-directions, preventing disengagement and ensuring secure attachment even under vibrational stress, with easy installation and visual verification of correct seating.
Implementation Method 1
one or more biasing members linking the body to the harness. The one or more biasing members are configured to operatively bias the harness against the second portion of the cable connector
Data Source
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AI summary
Examples are disclosed that relate to connector brackets, electronic devices, and methods for securing one or more cables to an electronic device. In one example, a connector bracket configured to stabilize a cable connector comprises a body configured to operatively extend over a first portion of the cable connector. The cable connector also comprises a harness configured to operatively engage a second portion of the cable connector and a biasing member linking the body to the harness. The biasing member is configured to operatively bias the harness against the second portion of the cable connector.