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

VSEngineering 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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with varying mobile device dimensionsVSAvoidconnector positioning mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of mobile device thicknessVSAvoidinsertion process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector and input port integrityVSAvoidaccommodation of protective case thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsertion angle flexibilityVSAvoidresting position adjustment range
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20240157258A1Position-Adjustable Connector for Mobile Device Controller
Publication Date: 2024.05.16 BACKBONE LABS INC
  • US20240157258A1 patent drawing
  • US20240157258A1 patent drawing
  • US20240157258A1 patent drawing

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.