USB Port Locking Mechanism for USB 3.1 Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing USB port locking apparatuses are inadequate for securing USB 3.1 ports, which are smaller and have a different shape and reversible design compared to USB 3.0 ports, leaving them vulnerable to unauthorized access and data leakage.
Innovation Solution
A USB port locking apparatus featuring a main body with a port coupling part and a locking mechanism that includes a locking yoke and a release key, allowing for secure locking and unlocking of USB 3.1 ports by utilizing recessed grooves on the connection part, preventing forced removal without the release key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If USB port locking apparatuses are designed for USB 3.0 ports, then they can secure traditional USB ports, but they cannot be applied to USB 3.1 ports with different shape and size
Solution Approach 1:
The locking apparatus is designed with a universal locking mechanism that can accommodate both USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 ports. The main body includes a port coupling part with a locking part that can engage with the recessed grooves present in both port types, allowing a single device to secure multiple USB standards without requiring separate locking mechanisms for each standard.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking part is designed to interact specifically with the recessed grooves located at the connection part of the USB port. By focusing the locking action on this specific local feature (the recessed grooves) that is common to both USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 ports, the apparatus achieves compatibility across different standards without needing to adapt to the entire port structure.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is made secure against forced removal, then data security is improved, but the ease of operation for authorized users may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The release key serves as an intermediary tool that mediates between the user and the locking mechanism. Instead of requiring direct manipulation of a complex locking system, the user simply inserts and rotates the release key, which internally triggers the unlocking sequence. This maintains high security while preserving ease of operation for authorized users who have the key.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock when the port coupling part is inserted into the USB port. The locking part automatically interacts with the recessed grooves to secure the connection without requiring manual intervention. This self-locking feature ensures security is maintained while minimizing the operational steps required from the user.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is an apparatus for locking a USB port. The apparatus is configured to be coupled with the USB port including a connection part with recessed grooves, and includes: a main body including first and second mounting portions; a port coupling part coupled with the second mounting portion, and inserted into and coupled with the USB port; a locking part movably provided in the port coupling part and being movable between a lock position where the locking part is coupled with the recessed grooves and a release position where the locking part is separated from the recessed grooves; and a locking and releasing part provided in the first mounting portion to be movable reciprocally, the locking and releasing part controlling locking and releasing motions of the locking part relative to the recessed grooves by interfering with the locking part when the locking and releasing part moves.