USB Connector Locking Tab Actuator Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
External USB devices, such as mobile network modems, are prone to unauthorized removal and theft during installation due to their simple pull-based connection mechanism, which complicates both connection and authorized removal, and can lead to entanglements in data centers with multiple devices.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating self-contained security mechanisms within the USB connector, featuring locking tabs and an actuator, such as a nut, that can be transitioned between positions to engage or disengage the locking tabs, providing a secure connection without additional external components, and using a threaded extension to apply force to collapsible arms for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple pull-based connection mechanism is used for USB devices, then ease of connection is improved, but security against unauthorized removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into multiple functional components: a plug body, locking tabs, and an actuator mechanism. The locking tabs are separate elements that can engage with corresponding features on the host connector, creating distinct locking and unlocking phases in the connection process. This segmentation allows the connector to provide both easy insertion (plug simply inserts) and secure locking (tabs engage automatically), resolving the contradiction between ease of connection and security.
2Reliability
If additional physical coupling mechanisms are added to secure USB devices, then security against unauthorized removal is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the connector housing itself rather than being a separate external component. The locking tabs are integrated into the plug body, and the actuator is incorporated within the connector structure. This merging eliminates the need for additional external coupling mechanisms while providing secure locking, thus improving security without significantly increasing device complexity.
3Device complexity
If locking mechanisms are integrated within the USB connector, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of authorized removal may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator mechanism is designed to be manually operable by the user without requiring tools or complex procedures. The actuator can be pressed or slid to automatically disengage the locking tabs, allowing authorized users to easily remove the device. The mechanism serves itself by using the user's direct input to trigger the unlocking sequence, maintaining ease of authorized removal while keeping the overall device complexity low through integration.
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 effectively prevents unauthorized removal by providing increased resistance and discouraging theft, while allowing authorized users to easily connect and disconnect the devices without complicating the process, thus enhancing security and reducing the risk of loss or theft.
Implementation Method 1
using a threaded extension to apply force to collapsible arms for secure engagement
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, an apparatus includes a connector of an electronic device including a locking tab, wherein the connector fits into a corresponding connector of a host computing device; an arm coupled to the locking tab; and an actuator, wherein the actuator in a first position depresses the collapsible arm and disengages the locking tab; and the actuator in a second position releases the collapsible arm and engages the locking tab.