Docking Sleeve Electrical Adapter Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective covers for portable electronic devices are limited in providing efficient and reliable usage, as they often require removal for docking and lack effective electrical connectivity solutions.
Innovation Solution
A flexible cover with a hard shell and integrated electrical adapter that allows for direct electrical connection to the device and docking, featuring a male plug and contactor for mating with the device's input/output socket, and a docking cradle with a tray and connector for secure and electrical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a flexible protective cover is used for the device, then protection and flexibility are improved, but electrical connectivity and docking capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the protective cover with an integrated electrical adapter, merging two separate functions (protection and electrical connectivity) into a single unified structure. The adapter is embedded within the flexible cover, allowing the cover to provide both mechanical protection and electrical docking capability simultaneously, thus resolving the contradiction between protection and electrical connectivity.
2Ease of operation
If the device is removed from the cover for docking, then electrical connection is achieved, but convenience and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the electrical adapter directly into the protective cover, the patent eliminates the need to remove the device from the cover for docking. The cover itself becomes the docking interface, allowing users to dock the device while it remains protected within the cover, thus simultaneously improving ease of operation and docking efficiency.
3Strength
If a hard shell is added around the flexible cover, then structural strength is improved, but flexibility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the flexible cover with integrated adapter is placed inside the hard shell. This nesting arrangement allows the inner flexible cover to maintain its flexibility and adaptability for electrical connectivity, while the outer hard shell provides enhanced structural strength and protection. Each layer serves its specific function without compromising the other.
Data Source
AI summary
A protective arrangement for an electronic device includes a flexible cover having a panel and a skirt that form an interior cavity to receive an electronic device; and an adapter fixedly positioned in the flexible cover and having a male plug with connectors extending into the interior cavity of the flexible cover for mating with a female socket of the device and a contactor with contacts adjacent outwardly from the flexible cover and electrically coupled to one or more of the connectors of the plug. A docking cradle or external adapter can receive the electronic device and cover. A docking cradle may have a movable arm.