USB Port Locking Mechanism with Linear Cam and Protrusions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing USB port locks are unreliable due to jamming or bending issues and fail to secure multiple ports or external devices like keyboards and mice, leaving security vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
A USB port lock with a linear cam and locking member, featuring protrusions for secure insertion into USB ports, combined with a spring-loaded locking mechanism and a blocking plate to secure multiple ports and external devices, ensuring robust and multi-port functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a claw mechanism is used to secure the lock to the USB port, then the lock can be secured to the port, but the claw may become jammed inward with too much force or bent out of shape with repeated use
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a claw that pushes outward from the back of the locking member (which can jam or bend), the patent uses protrusions on the front end of the locking member that push outward from the front. This inverted approach eliminates the jamming and bending problems by changing the direction and location of the securing force application.
2Reliability
If a single USB port lock is used, then one port is secured, but multiple ports and external devices remain vulnerable
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed with multiple protrusions that can simultaneously engage with multiple USB ports or with a USB port and an external device connector. This allows a single locking mechanism to secure multiple connection points, providing universal security coverage across different port configurations and device types.
3Device complexity
If the locking member is designed to block only a single USB port, then the structure is simple, but it does not address the issue of necessary external devices such as keyboards and mice
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is segmented into multiple protrusions that can independently engage with different connection points. This segmentation allows the single locking member to adapt to various configurations - securing just one port, multiple ports, or a port combined with an external device connector, without requiring multiple separate locking mechanisms.
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 provides a reliable and secure locking mechanism that prevents unauthorized access to USB ports and adjacent ports, maintaining structural integrity and accommodating multiple devices, thus enhancing security and usability.
Implementation Method 1
A linear cam return spring biases the locking mechanism and linear cam rearward, and a locking latch return spring biases the rear portion of the locking mechanism sideways
Implementation Method 2
When the lock button is depressed, the linear cam moves forward, pivoting the locking member such that its front end moves outward
Data Source
AI summary
Locking and blocking devices for USB ports include a lock having a linear cam with a lock button at its back end, and a locking member pivotally connected at its back end to a retaining sheath such that forward sliding of the linear cam pivots the locking member outwards. The front end of the locking member is biased toward the interior of the lock. The locking member has protrusions at its front end configured for insertion into holes of a USB port. A blocking plate includes at least one opening configured for insertion of the retaining sheath. A retaining bracket has a back face that defines a first opening, wider than the cable that connects a plug to an external device. The front face of the bracket defines a second opening configured for insertion of the retaining sheath, and a third opening configured for insertion of the plug.