Unified Connector Receptacle for Multi-Interface Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing demand for data transfer between electronic devices has led to a proliferation of connector receptacles on devices, causing customer confusion, increased costs, and complexity, as well as non-optimal device appearance and prolonged product launch cycles due to the need for multiple interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A unified connector and circuitry system that can communicate with multiple signal interfaces, reducing the number of needed connector receptacles by sharing pins and circuitry among different legacy interfaces, and enabling high-speed data transmission using a unified or legacy interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connector receptacles are provided for different interfaces, then compatibility with various signal interfaces is improved, but device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a unified connector receptacle that can accommodate multiple interface types (USB Type-C, USB Type-A, micro-USB, and legacy connectors) through a single universal receptacle design. The receptacle includes a movable support structure with spring-loaded contact elements that can be positioned to establish electrical connections compatible with different connector types, allowing one receptacle to perform the function of multiple specialized receptacles.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector receptacle incorporates a movable support structure that can be positioned in different locations within the receptacle housing. This dynamic element, actuated by a spring mechanism, allows the contact elements to be repositioned to match the pinout configurations of various interface types. The movable component enables the single receptacle to adapt its internal geometry and electrical connection pattern based on the inserted connector type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connector receptacles are provided for different interfaces, then interface versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple interface functionalities into a single unified connector receptacle assembly. Rather than manufacturing separate receptacles for USB Type-C, USB Type-A, micro-USB, and legacy interfaces, the invention merges these functions into one receptacle that contains all necessary contact elements and support structures. This consolidation reduces component count, simplifies assembly procedures, and lowers overall manufacturing costs while maintaining support for multiple interface types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connector receptacles are provided for different interfaces, then interface coverage is improved, but product design time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The unified connector receptacle design allows a single receptacle to support multiple interface types including USB Type-C, USB Type-A, micro-USB, and legacy connectors. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need to design, simulate, and validate multiple separate receptacle assemblies, significantly reducing the product development timeline while maintaining broad interface compatibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connector receptacles are provided for different interfaces, then interface compatibility is improved, but device appearance and simplicity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple interface receptacles into a single unified connector housing that presents a clean, simplified exterior to the user. The unified design conceals the complexity of multiple interface types within a single aesthetic element, maintaining device appearance simplicity while providing compatibility with various connectors including USB Type-C, USB Type-A, micro-USB, and legacy interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Circuits, methods, and apparatus that may reduce the number of connector receptacles that are needed on an electronic device. One example may provide a unified connector and circuitry that may be capable of communicating with more than one interface.