Dielectric Knuckle Coupling for Isolated Multi-Section Electronics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices face challenges in efficiently coupling multiple sections together, particularly in ensuring electrical isolation, structural integrity, and aesthetic appeal, especially when sections serve different electrical functions or are subjected to mechanical stress.

Innovation Solution

The use of knuckles, formed from materials that can change states or include dielectric materials, to couple sections of electronic devices, providing electrical isolation, structural reinforcement, and aesthetic design considerations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If sections are coupled using traditional methods, then assembly is simple, but electrical isolation between sections is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical isolationVSAvoidcoupling structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A knuckle component is introduced as an intermediary element between sections to provide electrical isolation. The knuckle includes a body portion and a barrier portion that physically separates conductive sections while maintaining structural connection, thereby achieving electrical isolation without requiring complex insulating arrangements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The knuckle is formed from composite materials or multi-material construction, combining conductive and non-conductive properties in different regions. The barrier portion uses non-conductive material to block electrical paths while the body portion provides structural support and connection

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If sections are separated by insulating material, then electrical isolation is improved, but structural integrity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical isolationVSAvoidstructural integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The knuckle merges the functions of mechanical connection and electrical isolation into a single integrated component. The body portion provides structural strength and connection while the barrier portion provides electrical isolation, eliminating the need for separate insulating elements that would compromise structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If knuckles are designed for electrical isolation, then capacitance requirements are met, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapacitance controlVSAvoidknuckle fabrication

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The knuckle design controls capacitance parameters through geometric configuration rather than material composition. By adjusting the dimensions, shape, and positioning of the barrier portion, the capacitance between sections is controlled to meet minimum requirements while using standard manufacturing processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Stability of the object's composition

If sections are rigidly connected, then structural stability is improved, but tolerance to mechanical stress is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidmechanical stress concentration

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The knuckle incorporates dynamic characteristics by allowing controlled movement or flexibility in certain regions while maintaining rigidity in others. This enables the structure to absorb mechanical stress through controlled deformation rather than rigid resistance, preventing stress concentration and failure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 knuckle-based coupling method enhances the precision and structural stability of electronic devices, ensuring proper electrical functioning and aesthetic appeal while accommodating manufacturing tolerances and mechanical stress.

Implementation Method 1

the knuckles can be formed from a dielectric material

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDielectric: Dielectric

Data Source

PatentUS12490397B2Systems and methods for coupling sections of an electronic device

Publication Date: 2025.12.02 APPLE INC

AI summary

This is directed to systems and methods for coupling sections of an electronic device together. Sections of an electronic device can be coupled together via “knuckles.” The particular shape and structure of the knuckles can be based on various design considerations. For example, in some embodiments each section can function as an individual antenna. In this case, the knuckles can be designed in order to provide electrical isolation between the sections, thus allowing proper operation of the antennas. For example, the knuckles can be formed from a dielectric material, etc. As another design example, the knuckles can be designed in order to provide increased strength in areas of high strain, and/or to counteract torsional twisting in areas of high impact. As yet another design example, the knuckle can be designed in a manner that is aesthetically pleasing or which otherwise meets cosmetic requirements.