PLUG COUNT LIMITER FOR CABLES

Organization Name

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION

Inventor(s)

Kevin O'connell of Rochester MN (US)

Timothy Clyde Buchholtz of Rochester MN (US)

George Russell Zettles, Iv of Rochester MN (US)

Karl Erickson of Rochester MN (US)

George Paulik of Rochester MN (US)

Jarrett Betke of Rochester MN (US)

Timothy Lindquist of Rochester MN (US)

Daniel Ramirez of Rochester MN (US)

PLUG COUNT LIMITER FOR CABLES - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18178690 titled 'PLUG COUNT LIMITER FOR CABLES

Simplified Explanation: The cable connector described in the patent application is designed to count the number of plug-in events and prevent further plug-in attempts after a certain threshold is reached. It includes an inner sleeve with a tab, an outer sleeve, a gear wheel with gear teeth, and a toggle plug counter that rotates the gear wheel in response to plug-in actions.

The cable connector counts plug-in events and stops further attempts after a threshold.
Inner sleeve with tab, outer sleeve, gear wheel, and toggle plug counter are key components.
Gear wheel rotates in response to plug-in actions, moving the inner sleeve to prevent further plugging.

Key Features and Innovation:

Inner sleeve with tab for counting plug-in events.
Gear wheel with gear teeth for rotation.
Toggle plug counter for moving the gear wheel.
Inner spring for preventing further plug-in attempts.

Potential Applications:

Electronic devices with limited plug-in capabilities.
Security systems to prevent unauthorized access.
Industrial equipment to track usage.

Problems Solved:

Prevents overuse or unauthorized access.
Ensures device longevity.
Enhances security measures.

Benefits:

Increased device lifespan.
Improved security.
Controlled access to equipment.

Commercial Applications: The cable connector technology can be used in various industries such as electronics, security, and manufacturing to limit plug-in events and enhance device security.

Questions about Cable Connector Technology: 1. How does the inner sleeve with a tab help in counting plug-in events? 2. What role does the gear wheel play in preventing further plug-in attempts?

Frequently Updated Research: Stay updated on advancements in cable connector technology for improved security and device management.

Original Abstract Submitted

A cable connector for counting a number of plug-in events and preventing further plug in attempts after a threshold number of plug-in events have occurred. An inner sleeve is located inside an outer sleeve, and is designed to move relative to the outer sleeve. The inner sleeve further includes a tab on an outer surface of the inner sleeve. A gear wheel is located inside the outer sleeve and perpendicular to the inner sleeve and has a number of gear teeth. A toggle plug counter rotates the gear wheel one tooth in response to a plug-in action of the cable counter. When the gear wheel rotates to a point where the tab aligns with a notch in the gear wheel an inner spring at the opposite end of the inner sleeve causes the inner sleeve to move through the gear wheel such that further plugging action becomes difficult.