Mobile Terminal Cradle Side Connector Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cradle designs for mobile terminals with side connector contacts are overly complex due to the need for rotating arms and pockets, as seen in previous solutions like US 2011/028105, which complicates the mechanism for providing a side connector contact.
Innovation Solution
A cradle with movable clamp parts and latches that allow for a simpler mechanism to engage and lock a side connector contact with the mobile terminal, using horizontal and vertical movements to secure the contact, reducing complexity and size requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rotating arms and rotating pockets are used to provide side connector contacts in the cradle, then the connector contact can be engaged to the mobile terminal, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex rotating mechanism from the cradle design and replaces it with a simplified movable means that can be linearly moved between engaged and disengaged positions. This removes the unnecessary rotating arms and pockets while maintaining the essential function of connector contact engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a rotating mechanism to achieve connector engagement, the patent inverts the approach by using a linear movable means that slides horizontally into position. This fundamental reversal of the engagement mechanism dramatically simplifies the overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If rotating arms and rotating pockets are used to provide side connector contacts, then connector engagement is achieved, but the cradle size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the space-consuming rotating arms and pockets from the cradle structure, replacing them with a compact movable means that requires minimal space. This extraction of unnecessary components directly reduces the overall cradle footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic movable means that can be positioned only when needed for connector engagement, rather than requiring permanent rotating structures. This dynamic approach allows the cradle to maintain a compact size while still achieving reliable connector contact.
3Reliability
If a bottom connector contact is used in the cradle, then charging function is provided, but the mobile terminal size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the multipurpose connector contact concept to the cradle's side connector, enabling it to provide both charging and communication functions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate bottom connector contacts in the mobile terminal, thereby reducing terminal size while maintaining full charging capability through the cradle.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~2B
Figure 3~4B
AI summary
A cradle housing (100')for a mobile terminal having a side connector contact is provided. The cradle housing(100') comprises two side portions (104a, 104b),at least one of the side portions comprising a movable first means (144b') that comprises a connector contact(146); and a second means movable substantially perpendicular to the first means, the second means(141b)facing in its one side the first means;wherein the first means comprises in the side of the first means facing the second means a cavity into which a portion of the second means may enter thereby locking the first means.