Adjustable Connector Z-Axis Movement for Mobile Device Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current handheld gaming devices have fixed connectors that cannot adjust to accommodate mobile devices of varying dimensions and protective case sizes, leading to potential damage during insertion and limited compatibility.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable connector that moves along the z-axis to align with the mobile device's input port, allowing for secure connection without bending or forcing, using a cantilever or elevator mechanism within the gaming device's handle to accommodate different device thicknesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed connector is used on the gaming device, then the device structure is simple and stable, but it cannot accommodate mobile devices of varying dimensions and protective case sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to move dynamically along the z-axis (vertical direction) to accommodate mobile devices of different thicknesses. The connector can be adjusted between multiple positions or a range of motion, allowing it to adapt to varying device dimensions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connector is positioned to accommodate thinner mobile devices, then thinner devices can connect easily, but thicker devices with protective cases cannot be inserted
Solution Approach 1:
The connector moves dynamically along the z-axis to match the thickness of the mobile device being connected. This allows the connector to be positioned at different heights to accommodate both thin devices and thick devices with protective cases, enabling easy insertion for all device types.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector's position parameter (z-axis location) is changed to match the specific thickness requirement of the mobile device. By adjusting this parameter, the system can accommodate a wide range of device thicknesses without requiring multiple fixed connector positions.
3Reliability
If the connector is fixed at a specific height, then the structure is stable and simple, but forcing insertion to accommodate thicker devices may damage the connector or input port
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of forcing insertion into a fixed-position connector, the connector dynamically adjusts its height to match the mobile device's thickness. This eliminates the need to force insertion, preventing damage to the connector or input port while still accommodating devices with thick protective cases.
4Ease of operation
If a flexible connector rotating about a hinge is used, then the approach angle can be changed for easier access, but the connector returns to a single default resting position
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a hinge mechanism that returns to a single fixed position, the connector is designed to move dynamically along the z-axis and maintain multiple possible resting positions. This allows the connector to adapt to different device thicknesses while providing insertion angle flexibility, combining the benefits of both approaches.
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming device that includes a handheld controller with a handle and a mechanism for connecting the handheld controller to a mobile device. The mechanism includes a substantially rigid arm and a connector. The arm is housed within the handle and is configured to pivot about a pivot point within the handle. The connector is attached to the arm at the end opposite the pivot point and is structured to physically and electrically pair the mobile device and the handheld controller. The connector is structured to pivot about the pivot point with the arm.


