Combined SIM SD Card Socket Back-to-Back Spring Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smaller computing devices like smartphones face challenges in accommodating multiple card sockets due to limited surface area, which affects both the engineering of proper conductor positioning and electromagnetic interference, while also compromising aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A combined socket design that accommodates both SIM and SD cards in a back-to-back configuration using springs to ensure electrical coupling, reducing the number of apertures needed and simplifying conductor routing, thereby improving space utilization and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate sockets are provided for SIM and SD cards, then each card can be properly accommodated with dedicated conductors, but the number of apertures increases and aesthetic appeal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate sockets (SIM card socket and SD card socket) into a single integrated socket structure. The upper socket base accommodates the SD card while the lower socket base accommodates the SIM card, both within one aperture. This merging reduces the number of apertures from two to one, improving aesthetic appeal while maintaining dedicated conductor connections for each card type through separate pin sets (first set of pins for SD card, second set of pins for SIM card).
Solution Approach 2:
The combined socket serves multiple functions by accommodating both SIM and SD cards through a single aperture. The socket structure is designed with universal capability to handle different card types simultaneously, with the upper portion supporting SD card operations and the lower portion supporting SIM card operations, thereby reducing the need for multiple separate apertures while maintaining full functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sockets are placed on the surface of smaller computing devices, then both card types can be accessed, but the limited surface area is consumed and aesthetic appeal is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate socket functions into one integrated structure that occupies a single aperture location on the device surface. By stacking the SD card socket (upper socket base) and SIM card socket (lower socket base) vertically within one aperture, the design reduces surface area consumption while maintaining the ability to accommodate both card types, thereby preserving aesthetic appeal without sacrificing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a horizontal arrangement of separate sockets to a vertical stacking arrangement within a single aperture. The SD card is positioned in the upper portion and the SIM card in the lower portion, utilizing the vertical dimension within the aperture to accommodate both cards. This dimensional reorganization reduces the horizontal surface area required while maintaining full card accommodation capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If separate sockets are used for SIM and SD cards, then conductor routing is straightforward, but the number of conductor paths increases and space utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the conductor routing paths by integrating both SD card and SIM card connections through a single socket structure. The first set of pins connects to the SD card while the second set of pins connects to the SIM card, both within the same aperture location. This merging reduces the number of separate conductor paths required, improving space utilization on the circuit board while maintaining ease of manufacture through organized pin assignments.
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 combined socket design allows for efficient use of limited space, enhances the aesthetic appeal of the device, and facilitates easier conductor routing, while maintaining reliable electrical connections for both SIM and SD cards.
Implementation Method 1
The cards are held in place within the socket in a back to back configuration by springs which further help insure that contacts on the cards are electrically coupled to conductors within the socket
Implementation Method 2
conductive pins on the card mate with conductors within the socket to form electrical connections through which signals may pass including, but not limited to: data, clock signals, command signals, power, and the like
Data Source
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AI summary
Combined sockets for selectively removable cards in computing devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, a socket is provided that can accommodate both a subscriber identification module (SIM) card and a secure digital (SD) card. The cards are held in place within the socket in a back to back configuration by springs which further help insure that contacts on the cards are electrically coupled to conductive pins in the socket. While it is contemplated that the socket will be used in mobile terminals such as smart phones and tablets, the socket may be used in other computing devices that use such cards.