Back-Face Docking Platform for Multi-Accessory Mobile Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile electronic devices with docking connectors on their edges face challenges in portability due to increased size and weight when attached to accessories, as existing solutions either require edge modifications that reduce feature space or restrict accessory flexibility and shape compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A detachable docking platform housed on the back face of the mobile device allows multiple accessories of various shapes and sizes to attach simultaneously and independently, with optional rotation and expansion, without increasing edge portability constraints, using a connection system that includes sticky gel, magnetic elements, or snap-fit mechanisms for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If docking connectors are housed on the edge of the mobile electronic device, then power and data transmission between the device and docking accessories is enabled, but the device size and weight increase when accessories are attached, reducing portability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the docking connector from the edge of the device to the back face, changing the spatial dimension of attachment. This allows accessories to attach to the back surface rather than extending from the edge, reducing the overall envelope size and weight when accessories are attached while maintaining full functionality for power and data transmission.
2Adaptability or versatility
If docking connectors are housed on the edge of the mobile electronic device, then docking accessories can be attached, but the device requires reinforcement or enlargement to counterbalance and support attached accessories, further increasing size
Solution Approach 1:
By moving the docking connector to the back face, the patent eliminates the need for edge reinforcement structures. The back face provides a stable mounting surface that inherently supports accessory weight without requiring additional structural reinforcement that would extend the device length or thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The back face of the device serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for attached accessories, maintains device aesthetics, and enables docking functionality. This multi-use approach eliminates the need for separate reinforcement structures dedicated solely to supporting accessory weight.
3Ease of operation
If docking accessories attach to the connector by flexible cable, then connection flexibility is improved, but the user must manage two or more independently moving bodies along with the connecting cable, increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the docking connector directly into the device body rather than using separate cable connections. This merging of the connector with the device housing eliminates the need to manage separate cables and independently moving bodies, reducing system complexity while maintaining secure attachment and full functionality.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the device is reinforced to support rigid connection with docking accessories, then connection stability is improved, but the effective magnitude of the mobile electronic system increases, rendering it inconvenient for transport
Solution Approach 1:
Relocating the docking connector to the back face provides a stable mounting surface that inherently supports rigid connections without requiring additional reinforcement structures. The back face acts as a natural support plane, maintaining connection stability while avoiding increases in device length or thickness that would compromise portability.
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
Enables secure, flexible attachment of diverse accessories without significantly increasing the device's size or weight, maintaining portability while supporting various accessory functionalities and orientations.
Implementation Method 1
a connection system that includes sticky gel, magnetic elements, or snap-fit mechanisms for secure attachment
Implementation Method 2
a connection system that includes sticky gel, magnetic elements, or snap-fit mechanisms for secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
A docking platform formed for detachable attachment to a largest-surface-area surface of a mobile electronic device. Such a docking platform may comprise a docking accessory connection system having one or more docking connectors, and optionally two or more electrical contacts therein, the contacts electrically connected to an electronics assembly within the docking platform and constructed and arranged to allow electrical connection to detachable docking accessories. The docking accessory connection system is operable to form detachable attachments to multiple independent docking accessories simultaneously. The docking platform may assist in providing interoperability between connected/linked docking accessories. One type of accessory forms an assembly with an expandable accordion attached to the docking platform.