Clip Mechanism With Integrated Terminals for Portable Device Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable user devices lack an efficient method for electrical coupling with docking devices, relying on plug and socket connections that are not always convenient for portable use, especially when devices need to be charged or data transferred while in use.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a clip member with electrical terminals that can be electrically coupled to a docking device, providing a clamping force to maintain contact and facilitate data transfer and charging, allowing for versatile docking arrangements including adapters and various terminal configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plug and socket connection is used for electrical coupling, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but portability and convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical clip function with electrical terminal function into a single integrated component. The clip member includes both clamping surfaces for mechanical attachment and electrical terminals for electrical coupling, eliminating the need for separate plug and socket components. This merging allows the device to be clipped to clothing or accessories while simultaneously establishing reliable electrical connection for charging or data transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip member serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical clamping to attach the device to various surfaces (clothing, bags, accessories), maintains contact force for reliable electrical connection, and houses electrical terminals for power and data transfer. This multi-functionality replaces the traditional single-function plug connection, improving both portability and connection reliability.
2Reliability
If a separate plug connector is used for charging, then electrical coupling is achieved, but device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical terminals are integrated directly into the clip member structure, combining the charging function with the mechanical attachment function. This eliminates the need for a separate plug connector, reducing component count while maintaining reliable charging capability through the same clip mechanism that attaches the device.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical clamping is used for attachment, then portability is improved, but electrical coupling capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The clip member integrates both mechanical clamping surfaces and electrical terminals into a single component. The clamping action not only attaches the device to clothing or accessories for portability but simultaneously presses the electrical terminals against the docking device to establish electrical coupling for charging and data transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip member provides multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical attachment to various surfaces, maintenance of contact force for electrical connection, and provision of electrical terminals for power and data transfer. This multi-functionality enables both portability and electrical coupling capability without requiring separate mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for docking a portable user device to a docking device or adapter via a clip mechanism. A portable user device may include two clip members which rotate relative to one another about an axis. A coupling pivot may be coupled to both clip members to facilitate relative rotation, and may provide a clamping force between the clip members. One or more terminals may be located on at least one of the clip members, allowing data transfer, charging, or other functions when the portable user device is docked using the clip mechanism.