Configurable Back Connector Assembly for Mobile Accessory Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices in warehouse settings face inefficiencies due to the need for multiple hardware interfaces for various accessories, which occupy space and are cumbersome to switch between, leading to operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly for mobile devices with a configurable connector region that includes alignment members to securely attach accessories, allowing for different arrangements of electrical connectors, such as pogo pins, to accommodate various accessory devices, including charging cradles, payment modules, and heads-up displays, with removable back plates enabling easy adaptation to different electrical requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware interfaces are provided for various accessories, then accessory compatibility is improved, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector assembly with multiple configurable connector regions that can be selectively activated. The back plate contains multiple connector regions (first, second, third, fourth) that can be configured to include or exclude electrical connectors based on the specific accessory being attached. This allows a single physical interface structure to serve multiple accessory types without requiring separate dedicated interfaces for each accessory type.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is divided into multiple independent connector regions (first, second, third, fourth connector regions) that can be independently configured. Each region can selectively include electrical connectors or remain empty, allowing the system to be segmented and activated only where needed for the specific accessory being used, reducing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware interfaces are provided for various accessories, then accessory compatibility is improved, but operational efficiency deteriorates due to interface switching
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is pre-configured with multiple connector regions that can be selectively activated before accessory attachment. The system prepares the appropriate electrical connectors in advance based on the accessory type, eliminating the need for interface switching during operation. The back plate can be configured with the appropriate connector arrangement before the accessory is attached, ensuring immediate compatibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electrical connectors are included in the connector region, then electrical connectivity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connectors are designed to be selectively removable or deactivatable from the connector regions. The back plate can be manufactured with all potential connector locations, but specific electrical connectors can be removed or deactivated during assembly based on the specific accessory requirements. This dynamic configuration allows the base structure to be manufactured once, with flexibility to adapt the electrical connectivity configuration as needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances operational efficiency by allowing seamless attachment and detachment of accessories without the need for extensive interface switching, reducing time and space requirements, and improving the usability of mobile devices in diverse environments.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one alignment member aligns with the connector region and frictionally receive an accessory device
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly for a mobile device is provided that includes a back plate adapted to be operably coupled with a mobile device, a connector region operably couple with the back plate, and at least one alignment member operably coupled with the back plate and positioned adjacent to the connector region. The connector region is configurable in at least a first arrangement and a second arrangement. The at least one alignment member aligns with the connector region and frictionally receive an accessory device. In the first arrangement, the connector region includes at least one electrical connector, and in the second arrangement, the connector region includes no electrical connectors.