USB Connector Layout for Reliable Type-C and Type-A Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing printing apparatus with a USB-Type-C interface faces challenges in reliable insertion of USB-Type-C cables due to the arrangement of USB-Type-C and USB-Type-A receptacle connectors, leading to potential erroneous connections and malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a substrate with USB-Type-C and USB-Type-A receptacle connectors arranged such that the distance from the inner surface to the USB-Type-C connector is shorter than to the USB-Type-A connector, and the connectors are positioned to reduce the risk of incorrect insertion by providing distinct insertion ports and grounding areas, ensuring proper alignment and secure fixing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If USB-Type-C and USB-Type-A receptacle connectors are arranged side by side, then both connectors can be provided in the device, but the USB-Type-C cable cannot be inserted reliably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the USB-Type-C receptacle connector and USB-Type-A receptacle connector at different depths from the inner surface of the flat plate, creating an asymmetric arrangement. Specifically, the distance from the inner surface to the USB-Type-C connector is shorter than the distance to the USB-Type-A connector. This asymmetric positioning prevents confusion during cable insertion and ensures reliable connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If USB-Type-C and USB-Type-A receptacle connectors are arranged side by side, then both connectors can be provided in the device, but erroneous connections may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates an asymmetric spatial arrangement by positioning the USB-Type-C connector at a different depth than the USB-Type-A connector. This asymmetry makes it physically impossible to insert the wrong cable into the wrong connector, thereby eliminating the risk of erroneous connections while maintaining support for both connector types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If USB-Type-C and USB-Type-A receptacle connectors are arranged side by side, then both connectors can be provided in the device, but proper alignment and secure fixing cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning where the USB-Type-C connector is located at a shorter distance from the inner surface compared to the USB-Type-A connector. This creates distinct insertion pathways and alignment references, making it easier for users to correctly insert cables without confusion, thereby improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
There are provided a flat plate; a substrate having a first side and a second side facing an inner surface of the flat plate; a first receptacle connector that is provided along the first side of the substrate and configured to be coupled to a first plug of a first cable via a first opening of the flat plate; and a second receptacle connector that is provided along the second side of the substrate and configured to be coupled to a second plug of a second cable via a second opening of the flat plate, a distance from the inner surface to the first side is shorter than a distance from the inner surface to the second side.