Switching Module for Electronic Device Interface Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices with flash disks face challenges in adaptability due to the variety of connectors required for different interfaces, making them inconvenient for use with diverse electronic devices.

Innovation Solution

A switching module with a body, a first interface assembly (male connector), and a second interface assembly (female connector) is integrated into an electronic device, allowing it to connect with different interface assemblies, enhancing adaptability and portability by accommodating various connectors and being easily assembled or detached based on requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different connectors are integrated into the electronic device to support various interfaces, then adaptability to different electronic devices is improved, but device complexity and bulk size increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different interfacesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single connector body that can accommodate multiple different interface assemblies (e.g., USB Type-A, USB Type-C, Micro USB) through interchangeable interface modules. Instead of integrating multiple separate connectors, the system uses one universal connector structure that can be configured with different interface assemblies to match various electronic devices, thereby achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is segmented into a main body and interchangeable interface assemblies. The interface assemblies can be detached and replaced based on the specific interface requirements of different electronic devices. This segmentation allows the system to maintain adaptability while reducing the complexity of the integrated structure, as only one interface assembly needs to be present at a time rather than all interfaces simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different connectors are integrated into the electronic device to support various interfaces, then adaptability to different electronic devices is improved, but the bulk size of the device increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different interfacesVSAvoidbulk size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

By using a universal connector body that can accommodate multiple interface assemblies, the patent reduces the overall bulk size compared to integrating multiple separate connectors. The single connector structure occupies less space than having all possible connectors permanently integrated, while still providing adaptability through interchangeable interface modules

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If a switching module is accommodated within the electronic device as an accessory, then portability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The switching module is merged with the connector body as an integrated assembly rather than being a separate accessory. The interface assemblies are directly attachable to the connector body, combining the switching functionality with the connector structure. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall system while maintaining portability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9601887B2Switching module and electronic device
Publication Date: 2017.03.21 PHISON ELECTRONICS
  • US9601887B2 patent drawing
  • US9601887B2 patent drawing
  • US9601887B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switching module including a body, a first interface assembly, and a second interface assembly is provided. The body has a first end and a second end opposite to each other. The first interface assembly is disposed at the first end. The second interface assembly is disposed at the second end and electrically connected to the first interface assembly. An electronic device including the switching module and a storage unit is provided. The switching module has a first interface assembly and a second interface assembly electrically connected to each other. The storage unit has a third interface assembly, wherein the third interface assembly is electrically connected to the first interface assembly through the second interface assembly.