Electronic device with removable tray

By designing a moving and joint motion SIM tray ejection mechanism in electronic devices, combined with biasing members, the noise and wear problems of SIM tray during normal use is solved, and convenient pallet removal and installation is achieved, improving the silence of the equipment Sex and durability.

CN114389632BActive Publication Date: 2024-12-10APPLE INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202111215462.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2021-02-11
Filing Date
2021-10-19
Publication Date
2024-12-10
Estimated Expiration
2041-10-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing electronic devices, the pop-up mechanism of the SIM tray is prone to noise and wear during normal use, and is not convenient for users to quickly remove or install.

Method used

A portable electronic device is designed, and its SIM tray ejection mechanism uses moving and joint moving parts, combined with biasing members such as springs and elastomers, ensuring that the tray is fixed in the seated position, and the user causes the tray to partially eject through actuation, and reduce unexpected motion and wear by biasing force.

Benefits of technology

Reduced noise and wear during normal operation, improved removability and ease of use of SIM trays, and enhanced silentness and durability of the equipment.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an electronic device with a removable tray. The portable electronic device includes: a housing member that defines at least a portion of a side surface of the portable electronic device; a subscriber identity module (SIM) tray that extends through an aperture defined by the housing member and is movable between a seated position and an at least partially ejected position; a tray ejector arm that is configured to at least partially eject the SIM tray from the portable electronic device in response to user actuation; and a biasing member that is configured to bias the tray ejector arm against the SIM tray when the SIM tray is in the seated position.
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Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a non-provisional patent application of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 63 / 094,312, filed on October 20, 2020, entitled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH REMOVABLE TRAY,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The presently disclosed subject matter relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly, to electronic devices having an at least partially removable tray for holding removable media. Background Art

[0004] Modern consumer electronic devices come in many shapes and forms and have a variety of uses and functions. For example, smartphones facilitate communication, productivity, entertainment, etc. Such devices may include many systems for facilitating such functions. For example, a smartphone may include a wireless communication system for connecting with other devices to send and receive voice and data content. In some cases, the wireless communication system may facilitate communication via a cellular network to provide connectivity with other devices (e.g., other smartphones), networks (e.g., the Internet), etc. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present disclosure provides a portable electronic device, the portable electronic device comprising: a housing member, the housing member defining at least a portion of a side surface of the portable electronic device; a subscriber identity module (SIM) tray, the SIM tray extending through a hole defined by the housing member and being movable between a seated position and an at least partially ejected position; a tray ejector arm, the tray ejector arm being configured to at least partially eject the SIM tray from the portable electronic device in response to a user actuation; and a biasing member, the biasing member being configured to bias the tray ejector arm against the SIM tray when the SIM tray is in the seated position. The portion of the side surface of the portable electronic device may be a first portion of the side surface of the portable electronic device, and the SIM tray may define a second portion of the side surface of the portable electronic device when in the seated position. The portable electronic device may also include: an ejector plug, the ejector plug being configured to receive an actuation force from an ejector tool; and a push rod, the push rod being configured to receive an actuation force from the ejector plug and apply the actuation force to the tray ejector arm. The biasing member may be coupled to the ejector plug and apply a biasing force on the tray ejector arm via the push rod. The biasing member may be a conical spring.

[0006] The portable electronic device may further include a SIM tray retaining mechanism configured to retain the SIM tray in a seated position, wherein the biasing member may apply a biasing force on the SIM tray when the SIM tray is in the seated position, and the SIM tray retaining mechanism may apply a retaining force on the SIM tray when the SIM tray is in the seated position, the retaining force being opposite to the biasing force to retain the SIM tray in the seated position. The SIM tray retaining mechanism may include a spring member in contact with the SIM tray.

[0007] The present disclosure provides a portable electronic device, the portable electronic device comprising a display; a housing, the housing surrounding the display and defining an aperture; a subscriber identity module (SIM) tray, the SIM tray being positioned in the aperture; a SIM tray retaining mechanism, the SIM tray retaining mechanism being configured to retain the SIM tray in a seated position; a SIM tray ejecting mechanism, the SIM tray ejecting mechanism being configured to displace the SIM tray in an outward direction, the SIM tray ejecting mechanism comprising a push rod, the push rod being configured to receive an actuation force; a tray ejector arm, the tray ejector arm being configured to displace the SIM tray in response to the actuation force being applied to the push rod; and a biasing member, the biasing member being configured to bias the tray ejector arm against the SIM tray when the SIM tray is in the seated position. The tray ejector arm may be configured to pivot about a pivot axis defined by a pivoting member, and may define a first portion extending from the pivoting member in a first direction and a second portion extending from the pivoting member in a second direction different from the first direction. The push rod may transmit an actuation force to a first portion of the tray ejector arm, and a second portion of the tray ejector arm may contact the SIM tray to displace the SIM tray in response to the actuation force being applied to the push rod. The biasing member may be an elastomeric member.

[0008] The hole may be a first hole, and the portable electronic device may further include an ejector plug at least partially positioned in a second hole defined in the housing, the ejector plug being configured to contact the push rod to apply an actuation force to the push rod. The biasing member may be a conical spring held to the ejector plug.

[0009] The biasing member may be a first biasing member configured to exert a first biasing force on the tray ejector arm, the first biasing force acting in a first direction, and the portable electronic device may further include a second biasing member configured to exert a second biasing force on the tray ejector arm, the second biasing force acting in a second direction different from the first direction. The second direction may be parallel to the pivot axis. The first biasing member may be a coil spring, and the second biasing member may be a rod spring.

[0010] The present disclosure provides a user identity module (SIM) tray assembly for an electronic device, which SIM tray assembly may include a housing; a tray configured to receive a SIM card; a tray ejector arm configured to at least partially eject the tray from the housing; a push rod configured to apply an actuation force to the tray ejector arm in response to an actuation force being applied to an end of the push rod; and a biasing member configured to bias the push rod against the tray ejector arm, thereby biasing the tray ejector arm against the tray.

[0011] The actuation force may cause the push rod to move in a first direction, and the tray ejector arm may be configured to pivot about the pivot axis to at least partially eject the tray in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The biasing member may be a first biasing member that applies a first biasing force on the tray ejector arm, the first biasing force acting in the first direction, and the SIM tray assembly may further include a second biasing member that is configured to apply a second biasing force on the tray ejector arm, the second biasing force acting in a second direction different from the first direction. The SIM tray assembly may further include a cover member that extends over the tray, and the second biasing member may be a rod-shaped spring formed integrally with the cover member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The present disclosure will be readily understood through the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like structural elements, and in which:

[0013] Figure 1A to Figure 1B An exemplary electronic device having a fingerprint sensing button is shown;

[0014] Figure 2A Shows Figure 1A to Figure 1B part of an electronic device;

[0015] FIG. 2B to FIG. 2D Shows Figure 1A to Figure 1B A SIM tray assembly of a device;

[0016] Figure 3A An exemplary ejector plug and biasing member of a SIM tray assembly are shown;

[0017] Figure 3B The housing components are shown Figure 3A an ejector plug and a biasing member;

[0018] Figure 4A An exemplary ejector plug for use in a SIM tray assembly is shown;

[0019] Figure 4B Another exemplary ejector plug for use in a SIM tray assembly is shown;

[0020] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B Another exemplary ejector plug for use in a SIM tray assembly is shown;

[0021] Figure 6 Another exemplary ejector plug and biasing member for use in a SIM tray assembly is shown;

[0022] Fig. 7A Shows Figure 1A to Figure 1B A partial cross-sectional view of a SIM tray assembly of a device;

[0023] Figure 7B Shows Figure 1A to Figure 1B a partial cross-sectional view of another SIM tray assembly of a device;

[0024] Figure 8 Another exemplary SIM tray assembly is shown; and

[0025] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of an exemplary electronic device is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Reference will now be made specifically to the representative embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalent forms that may be included in the spirit and scope of the embodiments defined by the appended claims.

[0027] Portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smart watches, tablet computers, etc. as described herein can use wireless communication systems such as cellular networks to provide a variety of functions, including sending and receiving voice and / or data content. In some cases, such devices use a subscriber identity module (SIM) card to authenticate and / or identify the device to the wireless network. The SIM card can be removable and / or replaceable so that the device can be used on different networks and / or by different users or user accounts. For example, an electronic device may include a removable or partially removable tray (also referred to as a SIM tray) that holds the SIM card and allows the SIM card to be removed, exchanged, replaced, etc.

[0028] In order to provide a removable SIM tray, a mechanism may be provided to facilitate holding and ejecting the SIM tray. For example, during normal use of the device (e.g., without a specific user actuating the ejection mechanism or other action specifically intended to eject the SIM tray), the SIM tray should not fall off or be ejected from the device. However, ejection of the SIM tray should not be unnecessarily difficult or cumbersome. Therefore, a SIM tray ejection mechanism may be provided to eject the SIM tray in response to appropriate manipulation by the user (e.g., applying an actuation force to a component of the ejection mechanism).

[0029] The SIM tray ejection mechanism may use components that move and / or can be articulated to secure the SIM tray in a seated position during normal use and provide the necessary ejection force on the SIM tray when properly actuated by the user. In order to prevent unwanted noise from the SIM tray mechanism and / or wear of the SIM tray mechanism, biasing members such as springs, elastomers, etc. may be used to bias the components into close contact or direct contact with each other. For example, the biasing member may ensure that the SIM tray ejector arm remains in contact with the SIM tray during normal operation of the device (e.g., even when the SIM tray is not ejected and remains in a seated position). The biasing member helps to occupy the play and / or gap (also known as side clearance) between the components to help prevent the components from knocking or hitting each other during operation of the device, thereby preventing wear and providing a quieter device operation. The biasing member may also help increase the friction of various components to help reduce unexpected movement during normal operation of the device. This article describes examples of SIM tray ejection mechanisms and biasing members and other components that help prevent the SIM tray ejection mechanism from moving during normal operation of the device (e.g., when the SIM tray is seated and not ejected).

[0030] Figure 1A An exemplary electronic device 100 is shown that is embodied as a mobile phone (e.g., an example of a portable electronic device). Although device 100 is a mobile phone, the concepts presented herein may be applied to any suitable electronic device, including a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch), a laptop computer, a handheld gaming device, or any other device incorporating a SIM tray. Therefore, any reference to an "electronic device" encompasses any and all of the foregoing. In addition, while the present application describes an example of a mechanism for use with a SIM tray, this is merely one application of the ejection mechanism described herein. In fact, the same or similar mechanisms and techniques can be used for other removable media, such as memory cards (e.g., SD cards, mini SD cards, micro SD cards, xD-Picture cards, etc.).

[0031] The electronic device 100 includes a cover 102 (e.g., a front cover) such as glass, plastic, or other substantially transparent material, component, or assembly attached to a housing 104. The cover 102 (which may be referred to as a transparent cover 102) may be positioned above the display 103. The cover 102 may be formed of glass (e.g., chemically strengthened glass), sapphire, ceramic, glass-ceramic, plastic, or another suitable material. The housing 104 may include one or more metal components coupled to a polymer (or other dielectric) material. In some cases, the housing 104 is a single piece of metal, a single piece of polymer, or it may use other materials and / or constructions. The housing 104 (and / or a housing component of the housing) may define one or more side surfaces of the device 100, which may define the outer side surface of the device 100.

[0032] Device 100 may also include buttons, switches, and other types of physical input devices. For example, device 100 may include button 116, switch 118, button 120 (e.g., a power / lock button), and / or other physical input systems. Such input systems may be used to control various operations and functions of device 100. For example, button 116 may be used to change the speaker volume, and switch 118 may be used to switch between a "ring" mode and a "silent" mode. Button 120 may include a fingerprint sensor or a component thereof.

[0033] Display 103 may be at least partially positioned within the interior volume defined by housing 104. Display 103 may be coupled to transparent cover 102, such as via an adhesive or other coupling scheme. In some cases, the assembly including display 103 and transparent cover 102 may be referred to as a top module. The top module may also include other components, such as touch sensing components and / or force sensing components, structural members, cameras, biometric sensors (e.g., facial recognition systems), ambient light sensors, etc.

[0034] Display 103 (which may also be referred to herein as a display stack) may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, an active layer organic light emitting diode (AMOLED) display, an organic electroluminescent (EL) display, an electrophoretic ink display, etc. Display 103 may be configured to display graphical output, such as a graphical user interface that a user may view and interact with. Device 100 may also include an ambient light sensor that may determine properties of ambient light conditions surrounding device 100. Device 100 may use information from the ambient light sensor to change, modify, adjust, or otherwise control display 103 (e.g., by changing the hue, brightness, saturation, or other optical aspects of the display based on information from the ambient light sensor).

[0035] Display 103 may include or be associated with one or more touch sensing systems and / or force sensing systems. In some cases, components of the touch sensing system and / or force sensing system are integrated with the display stack. For example, electrode layers of touch sensors and / or force sensors may be provided in the form of a stack that includes display components (and is optionally attached to or at least visible through cover 102).

[0036] The touch sensing system and / or force sensing system may use any suitable type of sensing technology, including capacitive sensors, resistive sensors, surface acoustic wave sensors, piezoelectric sensors, resistive sensors, etc. The exterior or outer surface of cover 102 may define an input surface (e.g., a touch-sensitive input surface and / or a force-sensitive input surface) of the device. Although both a touch sensing system and a force sensing system may be included, in some cases, device 100 includes a touch sensing system and does not include a force sensing system.

[0037] Device 100 may also include a front-facing camera 106. Forward-facing camera 106 may be positioned beneath cover 102 or otherwise covered and / or protected by the cover.

[0038] The device 100 may also include a speaker outlet 110 to provide audio output to the user (e.g., to the user's ear) during a voice call. The device 100 may also include a charging port 112 (e.g., for receiving a power cable for providing power to the device 100 and charging a battery of the device 100). The device 100 may also include a speaker opening 114. The speaker opening 114 may allow sound output from the internal speaker system to exit the housing 104. The device 100 may also include one or more microphones. In some cases, the microphone within the housing 104 may be acoustically coupled to the surrounding environment through the speaker opening 114.

[0039] Figure 1B The back side of the device 100 is shown. The electronic device 100 may include a rear cover 132 coupled to the housing 104. The rear cover 132 may include a substrate formed of glass, but other suitable materials (e.g., plastic, sapphire, ceramic, glass ceramic, etc.) may alternatively be used. The rear cover 132 may define the rear outer surface of the device 100. The rear cover 132 may include one or more decorative layers on the outer surface or inner surface of the substrate. For example, one or more opaque layers may be applied to the inner surface of the substrate (or otherwise positioned along the inner surface of the substrate) to provide a specific appearance to the back side of the device 100. The opaque layer may include a sheet, an ink, a dye, or a combination of these (or other) layers, materials, etc. In some cases, the opaque layer has a color that substantially matches the color of the housing 104 (e.g., the outer surface of the housing member and the joint structure).

[0040] In some cases, housing 104 can define a rear wall of device 100. For example, a single component or assembly can define the side surfaces and the rear wall (and therefore the rear surface) of device 100. In some cases, rear cover 132 can be attached to the rear wall of housing 104 such that rear cover 132, rather than the rear wall of housing 104, defines the rear surface of device 100.

[0041] The device 100 may include a wireless charging system, whereby the device 100 may be powered and / or its battery may be recharged via inductive (or other electromagnetic) coupling between a charger and the wireless charging system within the device 100. In such cases, the rear cover 132 may be formed of a material (e.g., glass) that allows and / or facilitates wireless coupling between the charger and the wireless charging system.

[0042] Device 100 may also include a rear-facing camera 134 and a flash 136 configured to illuminate a scene to facilitate capturing an image with camera 134. Flash 136 is configured to illuminate a scene to facilitate capturing an image with camera 134. Flash 136 may include one or more light sources, such as one or more light emitting diodes (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or more LEDs).

[0043] Device 100 may also include a SIM tray 138. The SIM tray 138 may extend through an aperture defined through housing 104 (e.g., in a housing member defining at least a portion of housing 104). SIM tray 138 may be configured to be disposed in a seated position (e.g., as Figure 1B and Figure 2C ) and at least a partially ejected position (e.g., as shown Figure 2D In some cases, SIM tray 138 may be completely removed from device 100.

[0044] When the SIM tray 138 is in the seated position, a portion of the SIM tray 138 may define a portion of a side surface of the device 100. For example, Figure 1B 100, and SIM tray 138 is shown in a seated position, with housing member 126 (e.g., a portion of housing 104) defining a first portion of a side surface of device 100, and SIM tray 138 defining a second portion of a side surface of device 100. In some cases, the portion of SIM tray 138 that defines a portion of the side surface has the same color, finish, appearance, and / or texture as housing member 126 (and is optionally formed of the same material).

[0045] SIM tray 138 may define an aperture 140 through a portion of SIM tray 138 that defines a portion of a side surface of device 100. An ejection tool can be inserted into aperture 140 to apply an actuation force to the SIM tray ejection mechanism such that SIM tray 138 is at least partially ejected from device 100.

[0046] Figure 2A is a partial view of device 100 illustrating exemplary internal components of device 100, and specifically SIM tray assembly 200 and tactile actuator 202. SIM tray assembly 200 includes, for example, SIM tray 138 and a SIM tray 138 ejection mechanism, as described herein.

[0047] The tactile actuator 202 (also referred to as a tactile device or a tactile feedback device) can be configured to generate a tactile output that can be physically detected by a user. Such tactile output can include vibrations, oscillations, taps, etc., which can be felt by the user when the user directly or indirectly touches the device 100 (e.g., when the device 100 is in the user's hand, pocket, etc.). In some cases, the tactile actuator 202 is configured to generate a tactile output having a range of about 0 Hz to about 300 Hz.

[0048] In some cases, the haptic actuator 202 and the SIM tray assembly 200 share at least one mounting point in the device 100. For example, Figure 2A As shown, the haptic actuator 202 and the SIM tray assembly 200 are both coupled to the device 100 via a common fastener 204. The common fastener 204 may be a screw, a bolt, a rivet, a pin, a weld, a heat-staking component, etc. The haptic actuator 202 and the SIM tray assembly 200 may each include a respective tab having a respective hole through which the common fastener 204 extends.

[0049] In some cases, due to the proximity of the tactile actuator 202 to the SIM tray assembly 200 (e.g., the tactile actuator 202 is adjacent to the SIM tray assembly 200), and the fact that both the tactile actuator 202 and the SIM tray assembly 200 are attached via a common fastener 204, vibrations, oscillations, or other movements may be imparted from the tactile actuator 202 to the SIM tray assembly 200 during tactile output. Such physical interference may cause components of the SIM tray assembly 200 to knock (e.g., periodically or repeatedly contact each other) during a tactile output event, which may produce undesirable wear on the SIM tray assembly 200 and produce unwanted or unpleasant noises during tactile output. As described above and as described herein, the SIM tray assembly 200 may therefore include biasing members and other structures, components, and / or mechanisms to prevent or reduce movement and / or knocking of components.

[0050] The SIM tray assembly 200 may include a cover member 206 that extends over the SIM tray 138 (or a portion thereof) when the SIM tray 138 in the device 100 is in a seated position. As described herein, the cover member 206 may define a biasing member 208 (e.g., a beam spring) that biases the SIM tray ejector arm (e.g., the SIM tray ejector arm 220, Figure 2C ) on the SIM tray assembly 200. The biasing force generated by the biasing member 208 can force the SIM tray ejector arm against the contact surface of the SIM tray assembly 200, thereby increasing the resistance of the SIM tray ejector arm to movement (e.g., increasing the friction that must be overcome in order to move the SIM tray ejector arm). The increased resistance to movement provided by the biasing member 208 can help prevent or reduce unintended movement of the SIM tray ejector arm during tactile output or other movement of the device 100. In some cases, other biasing members can be used instead of or in addition to the biasing member 208 to generate a biasing force that increases the friction between the SIM tray ejector arm and the contact surface of the SIM tray assembly 200.

[0051] Figure 2B The SIM tray assembly 200 is shown with the cover member 206 removed and the SIM card 139 installed in the SIM tray 138 . Figure 2B SIM tray 138 is shown in a seated position in device 100. SIM tray 138 includes SIM card carrier portion 212 ( Figure 2C ), the SIM card 139 can be positioned on the SIM card carrier portion. When the SIM card 139 is on the SIM card carrier portion 212 and the SIM tray 138 is in a seated position (such as Figure 2B ), the electrical contacts of the SIM tray assembly 200 (and / or the device 100) may contact the electrical terminals of the SIM card 139, thereby allowing the device 100 to read or otherwise receive information and / or data from the SIM card.

[0052] Figure 2CThe SIM tray assembly 200 is shown with the cover member 206 removed, wherein the SIM tray 138 in the device 100 is in a seated position. The SIM tray 138 may include a sealing member 210. When the SIM tray 138 is in the seated position, as shown, the sealing member 210 (which may be a polymer material, such as an elastomer, coupled and / or held to the SIM tray 138) may contact the sidewalls of the hole defined through the housing member 126. The sealing member 210 may prevent or reduce the possibility of water or other liquids or debris entering the device 100 via the SIM tray hole in the housing member 126. The sealing member 210 may also provide a retaining force that helps to keep the SIM tray 138 in the seated position. For example, the friction between the sealing member 210 and the housing member 126 (e.g., the surface of the hole) may help prevent accidental ejection or removal of the SIM tray 138.

[0053] The SIM tray assembly 200 also includes a SIM tray retention mechanism that is configured to retain the SIM tray 138 in a seated position (eg, such that the SIM card remains electrically and / or communicatively coupled to the device 100). Figure 2C In the example shown, the SIM tray retention mechanism includes a spring member 250. The spring member 250 may be attached to a mounting feature 252, which may be part of or attached to a frame member 258. The frame member 258 may define or include side walls extending along one or more sides of the SIM tray assembly, and a bottom wall or structure (e.g., below the SIM tray 138, and one or both of the mounting features 252 may be coupled to the bottom wall or structure). The spring member 250 defines a retaining feature structure 254 that contacts a retaining surface 256 of the SIM tray 138. When the SIM tray 138 is in the seated position, the spring member 250 (and more specifically, the retaining feature structure 254) exerts a retaining force on the SIM tray 138. The retaining force exerted by the spring member 250 opposes and / or resists the biasing force exerted on the SIM tray 138 by the SIM tray ejection mechanism. For example, the retaining force (e.g., the maximum retaining force applied by the spring member 250 on the SIM tray 138) may be greater than the biasing force, or otherwise configured such that the biasing force does not overcome the retaining force and eject the SIM tray 138. The retaining feature 254 and the retaining surface 256 are shaped such that the retaining force can be overcome by the SIM tray ejection mechanism to eject the SIM tray 138. For example, the ejection force applied to the SIM tray 138 causes the retaining surface 256 to push against the retaining feature 254, thereby deflecting the spring member 250 outward (e.g., away from the SIM tray 138) and allowing the SIM tray 138 to be at least partially ejected from the device 100.

[0054] The SIM tray ejection mechanism may include an ejector plug 214, a push rod 218, and a SIM tray ejector arm 220 (also referred to as a tray ejector arm or simply an ejector arm). The ejector plug 214, the push rod 218, and the tray ejector arm 220 may cooperate to at least partially eject the SIM tray 138 in response to a specific user actuation. For example, a user may use an ejector tool to apply an actuation force (e.g., indicated by arrow 222) to the ejector plug 214. The ejector tool may be similar to a rod, pin, shaft, or other device that can apply a suitable force on the ejector plug 214. The actuation force may be, for example, Figure 2C The axial force is shown in a left-to-right direction (e.g., parallel to or along the central axis of the ejector plug 214). In some cases, the ejector plug 214 is positioned in a hole formed through the housing member 126, and an actuation force can be applied to the ejector plug 214 by inserting an ejector tool into the hole, thereby contacting an end surface of the ejector plug 214.

[0055] The ejector plug 214 is configured to receive an actuation force from an ejector tool and to apply or exert the actuation force on the push rod 218. For example, the ejector plug 214 (e.g., a second end surface of the ejector plug 214 opposite the first end surface, wherein the first end surface faces outward and is configured to receive the ejector tool) may contact or otherwise be coupled to the push rod 218. When the actuation force is applied to the ejector plug 214, the actuation force is transmitted and / or applied to the push rod 218. The ejector plug 214 may be formed of or include a metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, titanium, etc.) and may include a coating, such as a plasma vapor deposition (PVD) coating, a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) coating, etc., which may improve the corrosion resistance, wear resistance, etc. of the ejector plug 214. In some cases, the coating has the same color and / or surface finish (e.g., texture, roughness, etc.) as the housing 104.

[0056] The push rod 218 is configured to apply or exert an actuation force (received from the ejector plug 214) on the ejector arm 220. The ejector arm 220 defines a pivot member 226 (which defines a pivot axis extending perpendicular to the page, such as Figure 2C), a first portion 223 extending from the pivot member 226 in a first direction, and a second portion 225 extending from the pivot member in a second direction different from the first direction. The pivoting action of the ejector arm 220 changes the direction of the actuation force to apply an ejection force on the SIM tray 138. More specifically, the push rod 218 applies the actuation force to the first portion 223 of the ejector arm 220, causing the ejector arm 220 to pivot about the pivot member 226 (and thus pivot about a pivot axis defined by the pivot member 226). The pivoting action causes the second portion 225 of the ejector arm 220 to apply an ejection force (indicated by arrow 224) to the SIM tray 138. The ejection force acts in a direction different from the actuation force. For example, the ejection force may act in a direction (e.g., arrow 224) opposite to the actuation force (e.g., arrow 222), or at least include a force component in a direction opposite to the actuation force, thereby at least partially ejecting the SIM tray 138 (e.g., pushing it out of a seated position) in a direction opposite to the actuation force. The direction of the ejection force need not be exactly parallel to or opposite to the actuation force in order for the SIM tray 138 to be ejected in a direction opposite to the actuation force (e.g., the SIM tray 138 may be ejected in a direction opposite to the actuation force as long as the ejection force includes a force component opposite to the actuation force). In such cases, the SIM tray assembly 200 includes a guide (e.g., a track, a guide surface, a channel, or other component or feature) that guides the SIM tray 138 in an ejection direction (e.g., opposite to the actuation force and optionally perpendicular to the side surface of the device 100) in response to the ejection force being applied or otherwise applied to the SIM tray 138.

[0057] In some cases, the SIM tray assembly may include more or fewer components to transfer force between the input member (e.g., ejector plug) and the SIM tray 138. For example, in some cases, the ejector plug 214 is omitted, and a single push rod or other suitable member directly receives the actuation force from the ejector tool and engages the tray ejector arm 220. In other cases, the SIM tray assembly may include additional components, such as an interface between the ejector plug 214 and the push rod 218.

[0058] The SIM tray assembly 200 also includes a biasing member 216 configured to bias the tray ejector arm 220 against the SIM tray 138. For example, the biasing member 216 applies a force (e.g., a biasing force) acting in the same direction as the actuation force (e.g., indicated by arrow 222) to the push rod 218, which in turn applies a biasing force (e.g., indicated by arrow 224) to the tray ejector arm 220 via the first portion 223 of the tray ejector arm 220 when the SIM tray 138 is in the seated position. In other words, when the SIM tray 138 is in the seated position, the biasing member 216 ultimately causes the second portion 225 of the tray ejector arm 220 to be biased against the SIM tray 138, as shown in FIG. Figure 2C As shown. The biasing force in the SIM tray ejection mechanism can help reduce or eliminate gaps between components and keep the components in close contact with each other. The biasing force can further help ensure that the components cannot move freely relative to each other (e.g., during tactile output). Conversely, the biasing force can hold the components together so that external forces experienced by the SIM tray ejection mechanism (e.g., from tactile output or other device movement) do not cause the components to knock against each other (or otherwise come into or out of contact with each other).

[0059] In some cases, the biasing force generated by the biasing member 216 biases the components together and holds them in close contact. For example, the biasing member 216 can bias the ejector plug 214 against the push rod 218, bias the push rod 218 against the first portion 223 of the tray ejector arm 220, and bias the second portion 225 of the tray ejector arm 220 against the SIM tray 138. Thus, the biasing member 216 can provide a biasing force to reduce play and / or backlash in the mechanical components of the SIM tray assembly 200.

[0060] As described above, the SIM tray ejection mechanism is configured to displace the SIM tray 138 in an outward direction from a seated position to an at least partially ejected position. Figure 2C The SIM tray assembly 200 is shown when the SIM tray 138 is in a seated position. Figure 2DThe SIM tray 138 is shown in an at least partially ejected position. For example, an ejector tool is inserted through the hole 140 in the SIM tray 138, into the hole 230 defined through the housing member, and abuts the ejector plug 214, thereby applying an actuation force to the ejector plug 214, which is transmitted to the push rod 218 and the tray ejector arm 220 (which ultimately generates an ejection force on the SIM tray 138). The ejection force ultimately overcomes the retention force applied by the SIM tray retention mechanism (as well as other forces opposing the ejection force, such as friction between the sealing member 210 and the sidewalls of the hole through which the SIM tray 138 extends, and friction forces elsewhere in the system), thereby causing the SIM tray 138 to be at least partially ejected (e.g., from the SIM tray 138). Figure 2C Its seat position shown moves to Figure 2D In some implementations, when the SIM tray 138 is at least partially ejected, as shown in FIG. Figure 2D As shown, the biasing member 216 is no longer in contact with the inner surface of the housing member 126 and therefore no longer provides a biasing force to the mechanism.

[0061] Figure 3A The ejector plug 214 and the biasing member 216 are shown. The ejector plug 214 includes a shaft portion 300, a first channel 310, and a second channel 312. The first channel 310 is configured to receive a sealing member 228 that is configured to contact the ejector plug 214 (e.g., in the first channel 310) and the sidewall 232 of the hole 230 defined by the housing member 126, as shown. Figure 2D As shown. Sealing member 228 (which can be a polymer material, such as an elastomer) can prevent or reduce the possibility of water or other liquids or debris entering device 100 via hole 230 through housing member 126. Sealing member 228 can be an O-ring. In some cases, sealing member 228 is molded to ejector plug 214 (e.g., it is bonded, adhered and / or otherwise fixed to ejector plug 214).

[0062] The second channel 312 can be defined by the ramp portion 302 and the cover portion 304 of the ejector plug 214. The second channel 312 is configured to receive and hold a portion of the biasing member 216 (which is a conical coil spring in this example). For example, the first end coil 308 (which can be the coil of the biasing member 216 having the smallest diameter) can be received in the second channel 312 so that the first end coil 308 is captured between the ramp portion 302 and the cover portion 304. In some cases, the ramp portion 302 facilitates mounting the biasing member 216 on the ejector plug 214. For example, the ejector plug 214 can be inserted through the first end coil 308 so that the first end coil 308 slides over the ramp portion 302 and enters the second channel 312 (which can include expanding when the first end coil 308 slides over the ramp portion 302 and retracting when the first end coil passes the ramp portion 302). In some cases, the maximum diameter of the cover portion 304 is greater than the maximum diameter of the ramp portion 302 to help retain the first end coil 308 in the second channel 312 and prevent the first end coil 308 from sliding over the cover portion 304 during assembly of the biasing member to the ejector plug 214. In some cases, when the biasing member 216 (e.g., a spring) is fully compressed, the length of the ramp portion 302 (e.g., from left to right, as shown in FIG. Figure 3A 216 ) is less than or equal to the stack height of the biasing member 216. In such cases, the ramp portion 302 does not contact the housing member 126 when the biasing member 216 is fully compressed.

[0063] Figure 3A The biasing member 216 is shown as a conical coil spring. The spring defines a first end coil 308 (which may be a portion of the spring having the smallest diameter), a second end coil 306 (which may be a portion of the spring having the largest diameter), and one or more intermediate coils 314 between the first end coil 308 and the second end coil 306. The biasing member 216 is configured to generate a biasing force by pushing the ejector plug 214 inwardly in the same direction of the actuation force that ejects the SIM tray 138. For example, the second end coil 306 may contact an interior surface of the housing member 126 (or another structure, member, or component of the device 100). When the SIM tray 138 is in the seated position, the biasing member 216 may be at least partially compressed, thereby generating a biasing force.

[0064] Figure 3B The ejector plug 214 and the biasing member 216 are shown in a configuration or position corresponding to the SIM tray 138 being in a seated position. As shown, the ejector plug 214 is at least partially positioned in the hole 230, and the sealing member 228 is in contact with the sidewall 232 of the hole 230. For clarity, the housing member 126 and the sealing member 210 are shown in cross-section (e.g., along Figure 1B 3B-3B in FIG. 1 ). The second end coil 306 of the biasing member 216 is seated against a surface of the housing member 126, and the biasing member 216 is at least partially compressed. In the at least partially compressed state, at least a portion of the intermediate coil 314 is wound within the second end coil 306. More specifically, the tapered shape of the conical spring biasing member allows at least some of the intermediate coil 314 to nest within the second end coil 306. In this way, the conical spring can be compressed to a smaller minimum length than non-tapered coil springs and / or other types of biasing members.

[0065] In the case where the biasing member 216 is a conical coil spring, the spring can be formed from a wire having a diameter between about 0.10 mm and about 0.20 mm, or between about 0.15 mm and about 0.18 mm. The material of the conical coil spring can be any suitable material, such as stainless steel, spring steel, titanium, etc. In some cases, the conical coil spring has a coating, such as a plasma vapor deposition (PVD) coating, a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) coating, etc. Such a coating can impart certain properties to the coil spring, such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance, etc. The length of the conical coil spring in an uncompressed state (e.g., as Figure 3A The spring travel may be between about 0.5 mm and about 1.0 mm.

[0066] The biasing force generated by the biasing member 216 may be sufficient to maintain the components of the SIM tray ejection mechanism in contact with each other during a tactile output or other motion event, but less than the retaining force exerted by the SIM tray retention mechanism on the SIM tray 138 and any additional retaining forces in the components (e.g., friction due to the sealing member 210, Figure 2C ). In some cases, biasing member 216 generates a biasing force between about 0.8 N and about 1.5 N. In some cases, biasing member 216 generates a biasing force less than about 1.5 N.

[0067] Although FIG. 2A to FIG. 3B The biasing member 216 is shown as a conical coil spring, but other types of biasing members may be used instead of or in addition to the conical coil spring. For example, a cylindrical coil spring, an elastomeric material, a leaf spring, or any other suitable component or material may be used instead of or in addition to the conical coil spring.

[0068] FIG. 2A to FIG. 3B Exemplary biasing members and ejector plugs that may be used to apply biasing forces to components of the SIM tray assembly 200 are shown. In some cases, instead of FIG. 2A to FIG. 3BDifferent biasing members and ejector plugs may be used in addition to or in addition to those shown. For example, Figure 4A Another exemplary ejector plug 400 and biasing member 408 are shown. The ejector plug 400 defines a first channel 402 and a second channel 406. The first channel 402 is configured to receive a sealing member (e.g., sealing member 228) that is configured to contact the ejector plug 400 (e.g., in the first channel 402) and the sidewall 232 of the hole 230 defined through the housing member 126, as shown. Figure 2D As described above, the sealing member 228 can be an O-ring, a sealing member molded to the ejector plug 400, or another suitable component and / or material.

[0069] The second channel 406 can be configured to receive and retain a portion of the biasing member 408 therein. Figure 3A The second channel 312 in the ejector plug 214 is defined by a ramp portion 302 having a larger diameter than the shaft portion 300 of the ejector plug 214, the second channel 406 lacks a ramp portion, and the second channel 406 is at least partially defined by an area having a smaller diameter than the shaft portion 407 of the ejector plug 400. The second channel 406 can be further defined by a cover portion 404, which can have a larger diameter than the second channel 406 and optionally larger than the shaft portion 407.

[0070] The biasing member 408 is a conical coil spring (which may have the same and / or similar materials and properties as the conical coil spring biasing member 216 described above), but other types of biasing members may be used instead of or in addition to the conical spring, such as a cylindrical coil spring, an elastomeric material, a leaf spring, or any other suitable component or material.

[0071] The ejector plug 400 may be a single unitary component (eg, a single piece of metal structure), or it may be an assembly. Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of an exemplary ejector plug 410 is shown, which has a similar external shape to the ejector plug 400, but is formed from a multi-component assembly. The cross-sectional view corresponds to a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 4A 4B-4B of the view, but Figure 4BThe cross-section in does not necessarily correspond exactly to the ejector plug 400. Specifically, the ejector plug 410 includes a main body member 411 defining a first channel 412 (e.g., for retaining a sealing member such as an O-ring), a shaft portion 414, and at least a first portion of a second channel 419 (e.g., for retaining a portion of the biasing member 408). The ejector plug 410 may also include a cover member 418 secured to the main body member 411 (e.g., via a threaded hole 416 in the main body member 411). The cover member 418 may define a flange 420 that defines a second portion of the second channel 419. The flange 420 may have a diameter greater than the second channel 419, thereby retaining the biasing member 408 in the second channel, as shown in FIG. Figure 4B In some cases, cover member 418 is a screw. Two-part ejector plug 410 can facilitate attachment of biasing member 408 by allowing biasing member 408 to be attached to ejector plug 410 without having to deform biasing member 408 to position it in the second passage of the ejector plug (e.g., without having to push the biasing member over a ramp portion or shaft portion having a diameter greater than the inner diameter of the narrow end of the coil spring).

[0072] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B An exemplary ejector plug 500 having an elastomeric biasing member 506 is shown. Similar to other ejector plugs described herein, the ejector plug 500 includes a channel portion 502 (for receiving and retaining an O-ring or other sealing member) and a shaft portion 504. The biasing member 506 extends from the end of the ejector plug and is configured to engage with a push rod (e.g., push rod 218) or other member or component of the SIM tray ejection mechanism to apply a biasing force on the push rod (or other member / component). The biasing force can be generated by compressing the biasing member 506 between the ejector plug 500 and the push rod (or other member / component) so that the biasing member 506 applies the biasing force when the SIM tray is in the seated position. When the ejector plug 500 is actuated (e.g., an actuation force is applied to the end of the ejector plug 500), the actuation force is applied to the push rod (or other member / component) through the biasing member 506. During actuation, the actuation force may further compress the biasing member 506 (e.g., beyond the extent to which it is compressed when the SIM tray is in a seated position to generate the biasing force), but the elastomeric material of the biasing member 506 may remain sufficiently rigid to transmit the actuation force to the push rod (or other member / component). In some cases, when the actuation force is applied, the biasing member 506 may be sufficiently compressed that the ejector plug 500 itself contacts the push rod (or other member / component), such that the actuation force is applied directly via contact between the ejector plug 500 and the push rod (or other member / component).

[0073] Figure 5B is along Figure 5A5B-5B in FIG. 5B shows a cross-sectional view of the ejector plug 500 and the biasing member 506 as viewed along line 5B-5B in FIG. The biasing member 506 can be positioned in a blind hole defined in the ejector plug 500 (and can optionally be adhered to or otherwise incorporated into the ejector plug 500 in the blind hole). The biasing member 506 can define a hole 508 that extends completely (as shown) or partially through the biasing member 506 (e.g., along a central axis such that the biasing member 506 has a hollow cylindrical shape). The size, shape, and material of the biasing member 506 can be selected to produce a desired biasing force and / or spring rate from the biasing member 506. For example, the length of the biasing member 506 can be selected (e.g., as shown). Figure 5B The biasing member 506 may be configured to have a substantially uniform distribution of forces, such as the outer diameter of the biasing member 506, the inner diameter of the axial bore in the biasing member 506, the durometer, hardness, or other material properties of the biasing member 506, and / or the amount of the biasing member 506 within the pop-up plug 500 and outside the pop-up plug 500 to produce a desired biasing force or other property of the biasing member 506.

[0074] Figure 6 A portion of another exemplary configuration for generating a biasing force in a SIM tray assembly is shown. Specifically, Figure 6 An ejector plug 602 (which may be Figure 2D Embodiments of the housing member 126 and the aperture 230 and / or corresponding to Figure 2D 6 and the hole 230 in the housing member 126. The ejector plug 602 is configured to exert an actuation force on a push rod 610, which can be an embodiment of and / or corresponds to the push rod 218, to at least partially eject the SIM tray. The compliant member 606 can be coupled to the ejector plug 602 and configured to contact (and deform against) a side wall 607 defining the hole 603. The deformation of the compliant member 606 against the side wall 607 seals the hole 603 to prevent the ingress of liquids and / or other contaminants, and also exerts a biasing force on the ejector plug 602 (and therefore on the push rod 610). For example, the interaction of the angled or chisel-shaped edge of the compliant member 606 against the side wall 607 causes the ejector plug 602 to be biased toward the interior of the device (as shown by arrow 608). Figure 6 The edge 604 of the compliant member 606 is shown deformed due to contact with the side wall 607. Thus, once the ejector plug 602 is positioned in a particular position in the hole 603 (e.g., when the SIM tray is inserted into the device and into a seated position), the compliant member 606 will tend to push or bias the ejector plug 602 in the direction indicated by the arrow 608.

[0075] The size, shape, and material of compliant member 606 may be selected to produce a desired biasing force from compliant member 606. For example, factors such as the outer diameter of compliant member 606, the durometer, hardness, or other material property of compliant member 606, and / or the angle of the angled surface of compliant member 606 may be selected to produce a desired biasing force or other property of compliant member 606.

[0076] The compliant member 606 can be attached to the ejector plug 602 via an insert molding process, whereby the ejector plug 602 is placed in a mold and a curable material (e.g., an elastomeric polymer) is injected into the mold and against the ejector plug 602 (e.g., in a channel of the ejector plug 602). The curable material is cured or hardened to form the compliant member 606. The molding process can adhere or otherwise bond the compliant member 606 to the ejector plug 602. In some cases, the compliant member 606 is formed separately from the ejector plug 602 and attached, bonded, adhered, or otherwise coupled to the ejector plug 602.

[0077] In some cases, as described above, a biasing member may be used to apply a biasing force to the SIM tray ejection mechanism to eliminate play, clearance, and / or backlash in the mechanism. In some cases, instead of or in addition to such a biasing force, an additional biasing force may be applied to components of the SIM tray ejection mechanism to increase friction between the components, thereby reducing unintended movement of the device.

[0078] Fig. 7A For along Figure 2A A partial cross-sectional view of the SIM tray assembly 200 viewed along line 7-7 in FIG. 1 shows an exemplary biasing member 208 (in FIG. Fig. 7A The exemplary biasing member 220 is configured to increase the friction on the tray ejector arm 220 to help reduce the unwanted movement of the tray ejector arm 220. For example, as described above, the tray ejector arm 220 is configured to pivot about a pivot axis 705 defined by the pivot member 226 (e.g., a vertical axis passing through the center of the pivot member 226, such as Fig. 7AThe pivot member 226 may extend into an opening 701 in a structure 706 (which may correspond to the frame member 258 or another structure of the SIM tray assembly 200 or the device 100). The tray ejector arm 220 further defines a first contact surface 702 that contacts a second contact surface 700 defined by the structure 706. When the tray ejector arm 220 pivots about the pivot axis 705, the first contact surface 702 slides along the second contact surface 700 (e.g., in a rotational motion). Thus, the biasing force applied by the biasing member 208 increases the normal force between the first contact surface and the second contact surface, thereby increasing the friction between the SIM tray ejector arm 220 and the structure 706, and increasing the amount of force required to move the SIM tray ejector arm 220 relative to the structure 706. The bias force can be sized such that the SIM tray ejector arm 220 does not move freely during the tactile output (e.g., vibrations from the tactile output do not cause the SIM tray ejector arm 220 to pivot), but the actuation force applied by the user to eject the SIM tray 138 can overcome the friction force to allow the SIM tray ejector arm 220 to at least partially eject the SIM tray 138.

[0079] The biasing member 208 is configured to apply a biasing force on the SIM tray ejector arm 220, wherein the biasing force acts in a direction indicated by arrow 708 (e.g., parallel to and optionally coincident with the pivot axis 705). The biasing force applied by the biasing member 208 acts in a direction relative to the SIM tray ejector arm 220. Figures 2A to 6 The biasing member may be applied in different directions. Figures 2A to 6 While the biasing force applied by the biasing member in acts in a direction in a plane with the display 103 and / or the cover 102 , the biasing force applied by the biasing member 208 acts in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the display 103 and / or the cover 102 .

[0080] The biasing member 208 may be a rod-shaped spring that contacts the top surface of the tray ejector arm 220, such as Fig. 7A In some cases, biasing member 208 is a rod-shaped spring formed integrally with cover member 206. For example, biasing member 208 may be formed by cutting or otherwise forming one or more openings through cover member 206 to define a cantilever beam (e.g., Figure 2A ), and then deform or deflect the cantilever beam so that the cantilever beam contacts the SIM tray ejector arm 220 and exerts a biasing force thereon. In some cases, the biasing member 208 is a separate component from the cover member 206.

[0081] Apart from Fig. 7A Other biasing members may be used in addition to or in place of the rod-shaped springs shown. For example, Figure 7B Another exemplary SIM tray assembly is shown in which an optional biasing member 712 is positioned between the SIM tray ejector arm 220 (e.g., the contact surface 702 of the SIM tray ejector arm 220) and the contact surface 700 of the structure 706. The biasing member 712 can be, for example, a spring (e.g., a wave spring, a coil spring, a leaf spring, etc.), an elastomeric material (e.g., rubber, foam, etc.), etc. In some cases, the biasing member 712 is positioned between other surfaces or portions of the SIM tray ejector arm 220 and the structure 706. In some cases, the elastomeric material (or other suitable damping material used as the biasing member 712) can dampen vibrations and / or reduce movement of components of the SIM tray assembly instead of or in addition to (and optionally as a result of) the biasing force generated by the elastomeric material.

[0082] Figure 7B Also shown is an optional fluid 714 that can be positioned between the cover member 710 (which can be an embodiment of the cover member 206) and the SIM tray ejector arm 220. The fluid 714 can be captured between the cover member 710, the SIM tray ejector arm 220, and the structure 706. In some cases, the fluid 714 is located in an opening in the structure 706 that receives the pivot member of the tray ejector arm 220.

[0083] Fluid 714 can be used to suppress vibration and / or reduce the movement of components in response to applied vibration and / or oscillation. Fluid 714 can be any suitable fluid, such as oil, silicone-based fluid, etc. For example, fluid 714 can be a ferromagnetic fluid. In the case of a ferromagnetic fluid, the tray ejector arm (e.g., tray ejector arm 220), the pivot member (e.g., pivot member 226), the cover member 710, and / or the structure that receives and / or pivots the member (e.g., structure 706) can be a magnet or include a magnet to attract and hold the ferromagnetic fluid in the space between the pivot member and the surface of the structure that receives and / or contacts the pivot member.

[0084] Figure 8 Another exemplary SIM tray assembly 800 is shown that uses a biasing member to apply a biasing force on a component of the ejection mechanism. For example, a biasing member 806 (shown as a coil spring, but other types of springs and / or compliance members may be used instead of or in addition to the coil spring) may be positioned between the support structure 804 and the feature 808 of the push rod 801. When the SIM tray is in the seated position (e.g., Figure 8), the biasing member 806 can be at least partially compressed so that a biasing force is applied when the SIM tray is in a seated position. The biasing force applied to the push rod 801 from the biasing member 806 can be performed in a manner similar to the above-mentioned biasing members (e.g., biasing members 216, 408, 506). Specifically, the biasing force from the biasing member 806 forces the push rod 801 to abut against the SIM tray ejector arm 810 (which can be the same as the SIM tray ejector arm 220), and ultimately forces the SIM tray ejector arm 810 to abut against the SIM tray 812 (which can be the same as the SIM tray 138). The SIM tray assembly 800 may also include an ejector plug 802 (which can be a Figure 2D Embodiments of the housing member 126 and the aperture 230 and / or corresponding to Figure 2D The ejector plug 802 is configured to apply an actuation force on the push rod 801 to at least partially eject the SIM tray 812.

[0085] Other exemplary biasing members that can be used to apply a biasing force on the SIM tray (and / or other components in the SIM tray assembly) include, for example, a torsion spring coupled to the SIM tray ejector arm 220 (and coupled to another structure, such as a frame member) to bias the SIM tray ejector arm 220 against the SIM tray 138. As another example, a pair of repelling magnets can be placed on the components to be biased away from each other (e.g., a pair of repelling magnets can be positioned on the end of the push rod 218 and the first portion 223 of the SIM tray ejector arm 220, or between the opposite end of the push rod 218 and the ejector plug 214). As another example, a spring can be positioned between the second portion 225 of the SIM tray ejector arm 220 and the frame member 258 to bias the SIM tray ejector arm 220 against the SIM tray 138. Other types of biasing members and corresponding structures and / or components are also contemplated.

[0086] In some cases, components of the SIM assembly (which may be metal or polymeric materials), and particularly surfaces of components that contact other components, may be coated with a polymeric material to help attenuate or reduce the sound of components that contact each other. This may further mitigate the sound caused by components hitting each other (e.g., due to vibrations from a haptic actuator).

[0087] Fig. 9An exemplary schematic diagram of an electronic device 900 is depicted. The electronic device 900 may be an embodiment of the device 100 or otherwise represent the device. The device 900 may represent a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a portable music player, a laptop computer, a virtual or augmented reality headset, a watch, etc. The device 900 includes one or more processing units 901, which are configured to access a memory 902 having instructions stored thereon. These instructions or computer programs may be configured to perform one or more of the operations or functions described with respect to the electronic device described herein. For example, these instructions may be configured to control or coordinate the operation of one or more displays 908, one or more touch sensors 903, one or more force sensors 905, one or more communication channels 904, one or more audio input systems 909, one or more audio output systems 910, one or more positioning systems 911, one or more sensors 912, and / or one or more tactile feedback devices 906 (e.g., tactile actuators).

[0088] Fig. 9 The processing unit 901 of the device 900 may be implemented as any electronic device capable of processing, receiving or transmitting data or instructions. For example, the processing unit 901 may include one or more of the following: a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a combination of such devices. As described herein, the term "processor" is intended to cover a single processor or processing unit, multiple processors, multiple processing units, or one or more other appropriately configured computing elements. The processing unit 901 may be coupled to a logic board of the device 900.

[0089] The memory 902 can store electronic data that can be used by the device 900. For example, the memory can store electronic data or content, such as, for example, audio and video files, images, documents and applications, device settings and user preferences, programs, instructions, timing and control signals or data for various modules, data structures or databases, etc. The memory 902 can be configured as any type of memory. By way of example only, the memory can be implemented as a random access memory, a read-only memory, a flash memory, a removable memory, other types of storage elements, or a combination of such devices. The memory 902 can be coupled to a logic board of the device 900.

[0090] The touch sensor 903 can detect various types of touch-based inputs and generate signals or data that can be accessed using processor instructions. The touch sensor 903 can use any suitable components and can rely on any suitable phenomenon to detect physical inputs. For example, the touch sensor 903 can be a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, an acoustic wave sensor, etc. The touch sensor 903 may include any suitable components for detecting touch-based inputs and generating signals or data that can be accessed using processor instructions, including electrodes (e.g., electrode layers), physical components (e.g., substrates, spacer layers, structural supports, compressible elements, etc.), processors, circuits, firmware, etc. The touch sensor 903 can be integrated with any part of the device 900 or otherwise configured to detect touch inputs applied to any part of the device. For example, the touch sensor 903 can be configured to detect touch inputs applied to any part of the device 900 including a display (and can be integrated with a display). The touch sensor 903 can operate in conjunction with the force sensor 905 to generate signals or data in response to touch inputs. A touch sensor or force sensor positioned above a display surface or otherwise integrated with a display may be referred to herein as a touch-sensitive display, a force-sensitive display, or a touch screen.

[0091] The force sensor 905 can detect various types of force-based inputs and generate signals or data that can be accessed using processor instructions. The force sensor 905 can use any suitable components and can rely on any suitable phenomenon to detect physical inputs. For example, the force sensor 905 can be a strain-based sensor, a piezoelectric-based sensor, a piezoresistive-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, etc. The force sensor 905 may include any suitable components for detecting force-based inputs and generating signals or data that can be accessed using processor instructions, including electrodes (e.g., electrode layers), physical components (e.g., substrates, spacer layers, structural supports, compressible elements, etc.), processors, circuits, firmware, etc. The force sensor 905 can be used with various input mechanisms to detect various types of inputs. For example, the force sensor 905 can be used to detect a press or other force input that meets a force threshold (which can represent a more powerful input than a typical input of a standard "touch" input). Similar to the touch sensor 903, the force sensor 905 can be integrated with any part of the device 900 or otherwise configured to detect a force input applied to any part of the device. For example, force sensor 905 can be configured to detect force input applied to any portion of device 900, including (and can be integrated with) a display. Force sensor 905 can operate in conjunction with touch sensor 903 to generate signals or data in response to touch-based and / or force-based inputs.

[0092] The device 900 may also include one or more tactile feedback devices 906 (also referred to as tactile actuators). The tactile feedback device 906 may include one or more of a variety of tactile technologies, such as but not necessarily limited to a rotary tactile device, a linear actuator, a piezoelectric device, a vibrating element, etc. Typically, the tactile feedback device 906 may be configured to provide intermittent and different feedback to the user of the device. More specifically, the tactile feedback device 906 may be adapted to produce a knocking or tapping sensation and / or a vibration sensation. Such tactile outputs may be provided in response to detecting an input (such as a touch and / or force input) or an event (such as a successful (or unsuccessful) biometric authentication). The tactile output may be delivered to the user via the outer surface of the device 900 (e.g., via glass or other surfaces used as a touch-sensitive display or surface and / or a force-sensitive display or surface) or via an input member such as a button or a biometric sensor.

[0093] One or more communication channels 904 may include one or more wireless interfaces adapted to provide communication between the processing unit 901 and an external device. One or more communication channels 904 may include an antenna (e.g., an antenna including or using a housing member of the housing 104 as a radiating member), a communication circuit, firmware, software, or any other component or system that facilitates wireless communication with other devices. Typically, one or more communication channels 904 may be configured to transmit and receive data and / or signals that may be interpreted by instructions executed on the processing unit 901. In some cases, the external device is part of an external communication network configured to exchange data with a wireless device. Generally speaking, the wireless interface may communicate via, but is not limited to, radio frequency, optical, acoustic, and / or magnetic signals and may be configured to operate on a wireless interface or protocol. Exemplary wireless interfaces include radio frequency cellular interfaces (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G, 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5G, GSM, CDMA, etc.), optical fiber interfaces, acoustic interfaces, Bluetooth interfaces, infrared interfaces, USB interfaces, Wi-Fi interfaces, TCP / IP interfaces, network communication interfaces, or any conventional communication interfaces. One or more communication channels 904 may also include an ultra-wideband interface, which may include any appropriate communication circuits, instructions, and the number and location of suitable UWB antennas. Communication channel 904 may use, communicate with, and / or receive data from a SIM card. A SIM card (such as a Figure 2B The SIM card 139 in the device 900 can store information (and provide it to the device 900) such as an integrated circuit card identifier (ICCID), an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) code, security authentication and encryption information, local network information, a personal identification number (PIN), a personal unblocking key (PUK), a serial SIM number (SSN), an international article number (IAN), a European article number (EAN), and / or other information.

[0094] like Fig. 9 As shown, the device 900 may include a battery 907 for storing power and providing power to other components of the device 900. The battery 907 may be a rechargeable power source configured to provide power to the device 900. The battery 907 may be coupled to a charging system (e.g., a wired and / or wireless charging system) and / or other circuits to control the power provided to the battery 907 and control the power provided from the battery 907 to the device 900.

[0095] Device 900 may also include one or more displays 908 configured to display graphical output. Display 908 may use any suitable display technology, including a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, an active matrix organic light emitting diode display (AMOLED), etc. Display 908 may display a graphical user interface, images, icons, or any other suitable graphical output. Display 908 may correspond to Figure 1A Display 103.

[0096] Device 900 may also provide audio input functionality via one or more audio input systems 909. Audio input systems 909 may include microphones, transducers, or other devices that capture sound for voice calls, video calls, audio recording, video recording, voice commands, and the like.

[0097] Device 900 may also provide audio output functionality via one or more audio output systems (eg, speakers) 910. Audio output system 910 may produce sound from a voice call, a video call, streaming or local audio content, streaming or local video content, and the like.

[0098] The device 900 may also include a positioning system 911. The positioning system 911 may be configured to determine the location of the device 900. For example, the positioning system 911 may include a magnetometer, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, an optical sensor, a camera, a global positioning system (GPS) receiver, an inertial positioning system, etc. The positioning system 911 may be used to determine spatial parameters of the device 900, such as the location of the device 900 (e.g., the geographic coordinates of the device), a measurement or estimate of the physical movement of the device 900, the orientation of the device 900, etc.

[0099] Device 900 may also include one or more additional sensors 912 to receive input (e.g., from a user or another computer, device, system, network, etc.) or detect any suitable property or parameter of the device, the environment surrounding the device, a person or object interacting with the device (or near the device), etc. For example, the device may include a temperature sensor, a biometric sensor (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, a spectrometer, a blood oxygen sensor, a blood glucose sensor, etc.), an eye tracking sensor, a retinal scanner, a humidity sensor, a button, a switch, an eyelid closure sensor, etc.

[0100] In reference Fig. 9 To the extent that the described multiple functions, operations, and structures are disclosed as part of, incorporated into, or performed by the device 900, it should be understood that various embodiments may omit any or all of such described functions, operations, and structures. Thus, different embodiments of the device 900 may have some or all of the various capabilities, devices, physical features, modes, and operating parameters discussed herein, or none of them. In addition, the systems included in the device 900 are not exclusive, and the device 900 may include alternative or additional systems, components, modules, programs, instructions, etc. that may be necessary or useful to perform the functions described herein.

[0101] As described above, one aspect of the present technology is to collect and use data from various sources. The present disclosure contemplates that, in some instances, the collected data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data may include demographic data, location-based data, phone numbers, email addresses, twitter IDs, home addresses, data or records related to the user's health or fitness level (e.g., vital sign measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying information or personal information.

[0102] The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data in the present invention technology can be used to benefit users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that users are more interested in. Therefore, the use of such personal information data enables users to have planned control over the content delivered. In addition, the present disclosure also anticipates other uses of personal information data that benefit users. For example, health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into the user's overall health status, or can be used as positive feedback for individuals who use technology to pursue health goals.

[0103] This disclosure envisions that entities responsible for collecting, analyzing, disclosing, transmitting, storing or otherwise using such personal information data will comply with established privacy policies and / or privacy practices. Specifically, such entities should implement and adhere to privacy policies and practices that are recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or government requirements for maintaining the privacy and security of personal information data. Such policies should be easily accessible to users and should be updated as the collection and / or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable purposes of the entity and not shared or sold outside of these legitimate uses. In addition, such collection / sharing should be performed after receiving informed consent from the user. In addition, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to defend and secure access to such personal information data and ensure that others who have access to personal information data comply with their privacy policies and processes. In addition, such entities may subject themselves to third-party assessments to demonstrate their compliance with widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adjusted to specific types of personal information data collected and / or accessed, and to applicable laws and standards including specific considerations of jurisdiction. For example, in the United States, the collection or access of certain health data may be governed by federal and / or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), while health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Therefore, different privacy practices should be maintained in each country for different types of personal data.

[0104] Regardless of the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates implementation schemes in which users selectively block the use or access of personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware elements and / or software elements may be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, with respect to an advertising delivery service, the technology of the present invention may be configured to allow a user to choose to "opt in" or "opt out" at any time during or after registration for the service to participate in the collection of personal information data. In another example, a user may choose not to provide emotion-related data for a target content delivery service. In another example, a user may choose to limit the length of time that emotion-related data is retained, or completely prohibit the development of basic emotional conditions. In addition to providing "opt-in" and "opt-out" options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications related to access or use of personal information. For example, a user may be notified that their personal information data will be accessed when downloading an application, and then the user may be reminded again just before the personal information data is accessed by the application.

[0105] Furthermore, it is an object of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risks can be minimized by limiting data collection and deleting data once it is no longer needed. Additionally, and when applicable, including in certain health-related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect the privacy of users. Where appropriate, de-identification can be facilitated by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or characteristics of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at a city level rather than an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and / or other methods.

[0106] Thus, while the present disclosure broadly covers the use of personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that various embodiments may also be implemented without access to such personal information data. That is, various embodiments of the present technology will not fail to function properly due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content may be selected and delivered to a user by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or an absolute minimum amount of personal information, such as content requested by a device associated with the user, other non-personal information available to a content delivery service, or publicly available information.

[0107] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of" following a list of items, any of which is separated by the terms "and" or "or," modifies the list as a whole, rather than each member of the list. The phrase "at least one of" does not require selection of at least one of each item listed; rather, the phrase allows for a meaning that includes at least one of any of the items and / or at least one of any combination of the items and / or at least one of each of the items. For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" each refers to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and / or one or more of each of A, B, and C. Similarly, it will be understood that the order in which the elements are presented for the combined or separated lists provided herein should not be construed to limit the disclosure to only the order provided.

[0108] For the purpose of illustration, the foregoing description uses specific naming to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practice the embodiments. Therefore, for the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description of the specific embodiments described herein is presented. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the disclosed precise form. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, in view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are feasible. Moreover, when used in this article to refer to the position of a component, the term above, below, above, below, left or right (or other similar relative position terms) does not necessarily refer to an absolute position relative to an external reference, but rather refers to the relative position of the component in the referenced figure. Similarly, unless an absolute horizontal or vertical orientation is specified, horizontal and vertical orientations may be understood as orientations relative to the components in the accompanying drawings mentioned.

Claims

1. A portable electronic device, comprising: A housing member, the housing member defining: at least a portion of an exterior surface of the portable electronic device; as well as a first aperture positioned along the outer side surface and extending through the housing member; as well as a second aperture positioned along the outer side surface and extending through the housing member; a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) tray extending through the first aperture and movable between a seated position and an at least partially ejected position; a tray ejector arm configured to at least partially eject the SIM tray from the portable electronic device in response to user actuation; an ejector plug positioned in the second aperture and configured to receive an actuation force; and a push rod configured to transmit an actuation force from the ejector plug to the tray ejector arm; and a bias spring coupled to the ejector plug and captured between an inner surface of the housing member and the ejector plug, the bias spring being configured to apply a biasing force on the tray ejector arm via the ejector plug and the push rod, thereby biasing the tray ejector arm against the SIM tray when the SIM tray is in the seated position.

2. The portable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The portable electronic device further comprises a SIM tray retaining mechanism configured to retain the SIM tray in the seated position; The SIM tray retaining mechanism applies a retaining force on the SIM tray when the SIM tray is in the seated position, the retaining force opposing the biasing force to retain the SIM tray in the seated position.

3. The portable electronic device according to claim 2, wherein: The SIM tray retaining mechanism includes a spring member in contact with the SIM tray.

4. The portable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The portion of the exterior surface of the portable electronic device is a first portion of the exterior surface of the portable electronic device; and The SIM tray defines a second portion of an outer side surface of the portable electronic device when in the seated position.

5. The portable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The biasing spring is a conical spring.

6. A portable electronic device comprising: monitor; a housing surrounding the display and defining a first aperture along an outer side surface of the portable electronic device and a second aperture along an outer side surface of the portable electronic device; a subscriber identity module SIM tray, the SIM tray being positioned in the first hole; SIM tray holding mechanism, the SIM tray holding mechanism is configured to hold the The SIM tray remains in the seated position; SIM tray ejection mechanism, the SIM tray ejection mechanism is configured to enable the The SIM tray is displaced in an outward direction, and the SIM tray ejection mechanism comprises: Putting; an ejector plug positioned in the second bore and configured to apply an actuation force to the push rod; a tray ejector arm configured to displace the SIM tray in response to the actuation force being applied to the push rod; and a bias spring coupled to the ejector plug and captured between an inner surface of the housing and the ejector plug, the bias spring being configured to bias the ejector plug against the push rod, thereby applying a biasing force on the tray ejector arm via the push rod and biasing the tray ejector arm against the SIM tray when the SIM tray is in the seated position.

7. The portable electronic device according to claim 6, wherein: The tray ejector arm is configured to pivot about a pivot axis defined by a pivot member and defines: a first portion extending from the pivot member in a first direction; and A second portion extends from the pivot member in a second direction different from the first direction.

8. The portable electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: The push rod transmits the actuation force to the first portion of the tray ejector arm; and The second portion of the tray ejector arm contacts the SIM tray to displace the SIM tray in response to the actuation force being applied to the push rod.

9. The portable electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: the bias spring is a first biasing member configured to exert a first biasing force on the tray ejector arm, the first biasing force acting in a first direction; and The portable electronic device also includes a second biasing member configured to exert a second biasing force on the tray ejector arm, the second biasing force acting in a second direction different from the first direction.

10. The portable electronic device according to claim 9, wherein: The second direction is parallel to the pivot axis.

11. The portable electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The first biasing member is a coil spring; and The second biasing member is a beam spring.

12. The portable electronic device according to claim 6, wherein: The bias spring is an elastomeric member.

13. The portable electronic device according to claim 6, wherein: The bias spring is a conical spring that is retained to the ejector plug.

14. A user identity module (SIM) tray assembly for an electronic device, comprising: a housing defining a first aperture along an outer side surface of the electronic device and a second aperture along an outer side surface of the electronic device; a tray positioned in the first aperture and configured to receive a SIM card; a tray ejector arm configured to at least partially eject the tray from the housing; an ejector plug positioned in the second aperture and configured to receive an actuation force; a push rod configured to transmit an actuation force from the ejector plug to the tray ejector arm; and a bias spring coupled to the ejector plug and captured between an inner surface of the housing and the ejector plug, the bias spring being configured to bias the ejector plug against the push rod, thereby applying a biasing force on the tray ejector arm via the push rod, and biasing the push rod against the tray ejector arm, thereby biasing the tray ejector arm against the tray.

15. The SIM tray assembly of claim 14, wherein: The actuation force causes the push rod to move in a first direction; and The tray ejector arm is configured to pivot about a pivot axis to at least partially eject the tray in a second direction opposite the first direction.

16. The SIM tray assembly of claim 14, wherein: the bias spring is a first biasing member that applies a first biasing force on the tray ejector arm, the first biasing force acting in a first direction; and The SIM tray assembly also includes a second biasing member configured to exert a second biasing force on the tray ejector arm, the second biasing force acting in a second direction different from the first direction.

17. The SIM tray assembly of claim 16, wherein: The SIM tray assembly further includes a cover member extending over the tray; and The second biasing member is a beam spring formed integrally with the cover member.

Citation Information

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