Configurable Bottom Connector Assembly for Mobile Accessory Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices in warehouse settings require multiple hardware interfaces for various accessories, leading to space occupation, operational inefficiencies, and time-consuming interface switching.
Innovation Solution
A configurable connector assembly for mobile devices with a bottom plate, connector region, and alignment members that can switch between charging pads and data ports, allowing for easy attachment of accessories like charging cradles, payment modules, and dimensioning modules, with locking regions for secure retention.
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 that can be configured with different interface types (charging pads, data ports, audio jacks) within a single standardized housing. This allows one physical interface location to serve multiple accessory types through configurable internal components, rather than requiring separate dedicated interfaces for each accessory category.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is divided into separable components including the bottom plate, connector region, and configurable interface elements. This segmentation allows the interface type to be changed or reconfigured without replacing the entire connector assembly, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
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 interface types available within the same physical location. Users can select and activate the appropriate interface type before connecting accessories, eliminating the need for physical interface switching during operation and improving workflow efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly allows dynamic reconfiguration of interface types based on accessory requirements. The system can adaptively switch between charging pads, data ports, and other interface modes without requiring physical movement or replacement of the connector itself, maintaining operational efficiency while supporting multiple accessory types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware interfaces are provided for various accessories, then accessory compatibility is improved, but space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal connector assembly housing contains multiple configurable interface types (charging pads, data ports, audio jacks) within one compact structure. This consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate interface locations into one space-efficient solution, maintaining accessory compatibility while reducing overall space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different interface types are nested within the same connector assembly housing. The configurable interface elements are positioned within the connector region of the bottom plate, allowing multiple functional interfaces to occupy the same physical footprint through hierarchical arrangement and shared structural components.
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 efficient and quick attachment of different accessories without the need for frequent interface changes, improving operational efficiency and reducing space usage on the mobile device.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one alignment region aligns with the connector region and frictionally receives an accessory device
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly for a mobile device includes a bottom plate adapted to be operably coupled with a mobile device, a connector region being operably coupled with the bottom plate, and at least one alignment member operably coupled with the back plate. The connector region is configurable in at least a first arrangement and a second arrangement. The at least one alignment member is positioned adjacent to the connector region. Further, the at least one alignment region aligns with the connector region and frictionally receives an accessory device. In the first arrangement, the connector region includes at least one charging pad. In the second arrangement, the connector region includes at least one data port.