Earphone Attachment Module With Side-Edge Storage to Reduce Bulk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing earphone and mobile device combinations result in bulky units due to the depth added by earphones, and are often limited to specific form-factors, making commercialization difficult.
Innovation Solution
An attachment module with a fixing mechanism that securely attaches to the mobile device and a retaining mechanism for earphones, positioning the speaker portion in line with the device's depth, and includes power management for charging, using adhesive or securing arms, and optional detachable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If earphones are attached behind the mobile device as taught by prior art, then the earphones can be stored with the mobile device, but the combined unit becomes substantially thicker due to stacking of depths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from stacking earphones behind the mobile device (depth direction) to positioning them at the side edges (width direction). The retaining mechanism extends beyond the side edges of the mobile device, allowing earphones to be held in a position where their bulk does not increase the overall depth of the combined unit, effectively changing the dimensional arrangement from Z-axis stacking to X-axis placement.
2Ease of manufacture
If specific form-factor earphones and mobile devices are used as taught by prior art, then the attachment mechanism can be implemented, but commercialization becomes significantly difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal attachment mechanism that can accommodate various form-factors of both mobile devices and earphones. The retaining mechanism is designed to engage with the mobile device's side edges and hold earphones in a standardized position, making it compatible with different device sizes and shapes without requiring custom implementations for each specific form-factor combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs adjustable and flexible design parameters in the retaining mechanism, allowing it to adapt to different device dimensions. The mechanism can be configured to work with various mobile device sizes and earphone types by modifying engagement points and retention forces, enabling broad commercial applicability across different product lines.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rounded shape earbuds are added to the depth of a mobile device as taught by prior art, then the earphones can be stored, but the combined unit becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the earphone storage position from the depth dimension (behind the device) to the side dimension (at the edges). This dimensional change allows the rounded earbud shapes to be positioned laterally where they do not contribute to the overall bulkiness of the combined unit, while still providing secure storage capability.
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 solution minimizes bulkiness by aligning the earphone speaker with the device's depth, enhances compatibility with standard devices, and provides convenient charging options, making the earphones easily identifiable and marketable.
Implementation Method 1
The fixing mechanism may be an adhesive that binds the main body to the back side of the mobile device
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment module for couples at least one wireless earphone with a mobile device. The module includes a generally planar main body having an interior side for facing a back surface of the mobile device and an exterior side facing opposite the interior side. The module has a first end for engaging a first edge of the mobile device. The module has an earphone retaining mechanism extending beyond the first end for detachably holding the at least one wireless earphone in a position where a speaker portion of the earphone is positioned beyond a plane defined by the interior side.