USB-C Receptacle Reinforcement Structure Against Connector Peeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a concern that the USB-Type-C receptacle connector may peel off from the substrate when a load is applied to the USB-Type-C cable in existing electronic devices, particularly in printing systems that require both data communication and power exchange with external devices.

Innovation Solution

The electronic device incorporates a sheet metal substrate with a first USB-Type-C receptacle connector and a prevention section that presses the second part of the connector, preventing it from peeling off from the surface, ensuring secure coupling and reduced risk of erroneous insertion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a USB-Type-C receptacle connector is coupled to a substrate in a printing apparatus, then data communication and power exchange with external devices are enabled, but the receptacle connector may peel off from the substrate when a load is applied to the USB-Type-C cable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata communication and power exchange capabilityVSAvoidconnector attachment stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing structure is divided into multiple components: a fixing member that directly secures the receptacle connector to the substrate, and a reinforcement member that provides additional support. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the fixing member handles direct attachment while the reinforcement member prevents peeling under load.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing member and reinforcement member are combined to form an integrated fixing structure. The reinforcement member is positioned adjacent to the fixing member to work together in preventing the receptacle connector from peeling off, creating a synergistic effect that enhances overall attachment stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If the USB-Type-C receptacle connector is securely fixed to prevent peeling, then connector reliability is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector attachment stabilityVSAvoidfixing structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reinforcement member is designed to automatically engage with the substrate and receptacle connector without requiring additional fastening operations. Its structure allows it to self-position and self-secure, providing reinforcement against peeling forces while minimizing the need for complex assembly procedures or additional fastening components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The reinforcement member utilizes a thin, flexible structure that can adapt to the space between the substrate and receptacle connector. This thin-film approach provides effective reinforcement against peeling forces while occupying minimal space and adding minimal structural complexity to the overall device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS12057666B2Electronic device

Publication Date: 2024.08.06 SEIKO EPSON CORP

AI summary

There are provided a sheet metal; a substrate having a first surface facing an inner surface of the sheet metal; a first receptacle connector having a first part which is in contact with the first surface, and a second part facing the first part, and configured to be coupled to a first plug via a first opening of the sheet metal; and a first prevention section that is coupled to the sheet metal, presses the second part, and prevents the first receptacle connector from peeling off from the first surface.