Symmetric Connector Cable for Bidirectional Signal Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional connection methods require users to consider the direction of cable connections, which becomes complex as the number of units increases, necessitating either software or hardware switching of input and output ports.

Innovation Solution

A connection cable design featuring first and second connectors with concave and convex structures arranged in line symmetry, allowing for bidirectional compatibility without the need to distinguish between input and output ports, enabling flexible and simplified unit connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If daisy chain connection with directional ports is used, then signal transmission between units is achieved, but connection complexity increases as the number of units increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmissionVSAvoidconnection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed with asymmetric concave and convex structures that are line-symmetric with respect to a reference line, creating a directional interface that naturally guides proper connection orientation while maintaining simple plug-and-play operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The connection cable can function in multiple directions due to the line-symmetric design, allowing the same connector type to be used for both input and output connections without requiring different port types or switching mechanisms

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

2Reliability

If directional connection ports are used, then proper signal flow is ensured, but user operation becomes more difficult as direction awareness is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal flow controlVSAvoidconnection operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The asymmetric concave-convex connector design provides visual and physical cues that guide users to connect in the correct orientation without requiring them to consciously determine input vs. output directions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design itself provides the directional guidance function, eliminating the need for external labels, switches, or user knowledge about signal flow direction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If input and output ports are switched to accommodate more units, then system expandability is achieved, but hardware or software switching complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem expandabilityVSAvoidport switching complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The line-symmetric connector design allows the same physical interface to serve multiple functional roles (input and output) without requiring port switching, enabling seamless system expansion

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

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of switching ports to accommodate different connection scenarios, the design inverts the approach by making the connector itself adaptable to multiple directions through line-symmetric geometry

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS10356501B2Connection cable, microphone, and signal processing system
Publication Date: 2019.07.16 YAMAHA CORP
  • US10356501B2 patent drawing
  • US10356501B2 patent drawing
  • US10356501B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A connection cable is provided with a plurality of structures, a first connector, and a second connector. The plurality of structures include a concave-shaped structure and a convex-shaped structure. The first connector includes the concave-shaped structure and the convex-shaped structure that are arranged in line symmetry with respect to a predetermined reference line. The second connector includes the concave-shaped structure and the convex-shaped structure that are arranged in line symmetry with respect to a predetermined reference line.