USB Connector Slide-Locking Mechanism for Fatigue Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing USB device designs face issues such as reduced lifespan due to metal fatigue and potential damage to printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) when attempting to release slide locks, which affects the sliding motion and connector system functionality.

Innovation Solution

A USB device with a casing design featuring a multiple slide-locking mechanism, including a primary and secondary locking system, where slot pins travel between locking cavities to extend or retract the connector system, and a secondary latch with a spring section for minimal resistance, ensuring secure and durable operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a spring mechanism is used to control slide movement, then the connector can extend and retract, but metal fatigue causes the spring force to diminish over time, reducing device lifespan

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector extension and retractionVSAvoiddevice lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the spring-based mechanical system with a manual slide-locking mechanism. The connector is extended or retracted by manually sliding it to a locked position, eliminating the spring component that suffers from metal fatigue. This substitution maintains operational ease while significantly improving long-term reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector system incorporates self-locking features where the connector itself engages with locking cavities and retaining walls within the casing. The design allows the connector to secure its own position through geometric interlocking (slots and cavities) without requiring external spring force, making the system self-sustaining and fatigue-resistant.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If force is applied to PCBA to release slide locks, then the locking mechanism can be disengaged, but this results in damage to trace connections on the PCBA

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking mechanism releaseVSAvoidPCBA trace connection damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the locking function from the PCBA structure and relocates it to dedicated locking mechanisms integrated into the connector and casing. The slide locks are now part of the connector assembly itself, engaging with corresponding features in the casing rather than requiring force applied to the fragile PCBA traces. This separation protects the PCBA from mechanical stress.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate locking structures (locking cavities, retaining walls, and slot-pin mechanisms) that mediate between the connector and the casing. These intermediaries absorb and redirect the mechanical forces required for locking and unlocking, preventing direct force transmission to the PCBA and its delicate trace connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If a simple latch mechanism is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the connector may not be securely locked during retraction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking mechanism structureVSAvoidconnector locking security

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the locking function into multiple independent segments: slot-pin locking mechanisms for primary retention, tab-based secondary latches for additional security, and geometric interlocking features distributed throughout the connector-casing interface. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific locking function, achieving high reliability without requiring a single complex mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple locking approaches (slot-pin mechanical interlocking, tab-based latching, and geometric constraint features) into an integrated system where all elements work together. The connector simultaneously engages with multiple locking features in the casing, creating redundant security that prevents accidental disengagement while maintaining relatively simple individual components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution enables reliable and durable extension and retraction of the USB connector system, minimizing damage to PCBAs and extending the device's lifespan by using a secure locking mechanism that reduces wear and tear, while maintaining protection and usability.

Implementation Method 1

a secondary latch with a spring section for minimal resistance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7980867B2Portable computer universal serial bus device with an extendable connector secured by multiple locking mechanisms

Publication Date: 2011.07.19 KINGSTON TECHNOLOGY CORP

AI summary

An apparatus for use within an electrical devices is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a casing having an upper body and a lower body, the casing including a tab disposed on a surface thereof and an adjustable base having a plurality of tab cavities adjacent to the tab. The tab engagingly couples to one of the plurality of tab cavities to secure the adjustable base. The apparatus also includes a connector system coupled to the adjustable base.