Universal Connection Adapter With Multi-Directional Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connection adapters for testing computing devices are limited by space and equipment constraints, requiring multiple adapters for different types of devices and often wasting bench space due to their large size and the need for specific parts.
Innovation Solution
A universal connection adapter design with multiple sets of input and output connectors arranged in different directions, allowing for high packing density and flexibility in connecting various types of computing devices and power supplies, including components for signal control and power sharing between adapters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional connection adapters are used for testing computing devices, then each adapter can connect a specific type of device, but the bench space required increases and the number of devices that can be tested simultaneously decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection adapter is designed with multiple sets of input connectors (first, second, third sets) and multiple output connectors, allowing a single adapter to support multiple connector types and configurations. This multi-functional design enables one adapter to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate adapters, thereby reducing bench space while maintaining versatility in connecting different computing device types.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of connector sets in different orientations and positions. By distributing connectors across multiple faces and dimensions of the adapter housing, the design maximizes connectivity options without proportionally increasing the adapter's footprint on the bench surface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate adapters are used to support different connector types, then each connector type is properly supported, but the number of parts required increases and equipment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connector sets that would traditionally require separate adapters are merged into a single integrated connection adapter. The adapter housing contains multiple input connector sets and output connectors that can be configured to support various computing device types, reducing the total number of parts from multiple separate adapters to one unified device.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connection adapter is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting different connector types through its multiple input and output connector sets, eliminating the need for technicians to maintain inventories of multiple specialized adapters for different device types.
3Ease of operation
If conventional adapter layouts are used, then connection simplicity is maintained, but packing density on the test bench decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter employs multi-dimensional spatial distribution of connector sets across different faces and orientations of the housing. This allows connectors to be accessed from multiple directions without increasing the adapter's primary footprint, thereby improving packing density while maintaining ease of connection through straightforward plug-and-play interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sets of input connectors are arranged in different orientations on the adapter housing, optimized for their specific connection purposes. This localized optimization of connector placement allows for efficient space utilization while maintaining simple, intuitive connection procedures for each connector type.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection adapter is provided. In certain configurations, the connection adapter includes an input portion with a plurality of sets of input connectors, a first output portion extending from the input portion in a first direction and including a first set of output connectors, and a second output portion extending from the input portion in a second direction and including a second set of output connectors. In the connection adapter, the sets of input connectors are electrically coupled to each of the first set of output connectors and the second set of output connectors. Further, the first and second directions are substantially perpendicular to each other, while the input portion extends in a third direction that is not substantially perpendicular to the first direction or the second direction.