Electronic Apparatus Module Attachment Recessed Engaging Portion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing portable electronic devices face issues with additional modules being easily dislocated by shock and lacking waterproofing when connected, as they rely solely on guide rails for attachment and do not consider shock resistance or waterproofing.

Innovation Solution

The electronic apparatus incorporates a design with a recessed portion on the main body and a protruding engaging portion on the additional module, along with a battery cover that provides a secure attachment mechanism, allowing the additional module to be slid into place and securely engage with the main body, while also ensuring waterproofing through the use of O-ring shaped gaskets.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the additional module is connected to the main body by two guide rails, then the ease of attachment is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because the module is easily dislocated by shock

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of attachmentVSAvoidresistance to dislocation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection mechanism is divided into multiple independent engagement portions (first engaging portion connecting to the main body and second engaging portion connecting to the battery cover) rather than relying on a single guide rail connection. This segmentation distributes the mechanical load and provides redundant connection points, preventing dislocation while maintaining ease of attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system merges multiple components (main body, battery cover, and additional module) into an integrated engagement system where the additional module connects to both the main body and battery cover simultaneously. This combining creates a more robust connection that resists shock-induced dislocation while preserving user-friendly attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Device complexity

If the additional module is simply connected by guide rails, then the device complexity is reduced, but the waterproofing deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection structureVSAvoidwaterproofing
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A waterproof member (O-ring gasket) is introduced as an intermediary element between the additional module and the battery cover. This mediator provides waterproofing functionality without significantly increasing the overall structural complexity, as the gasket integrates seamlessly into the existing engagement portions and recessed structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The waterproof member is implemented as a flexible O-ring gasket that can deform to accommodate the engagement portions while maintaining a continuous waterproof seal. This flexible thin-film approach provides effective waterproofing without adding rigid structural complexity to the connection system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the additional module covers the opening portion, then the protection of the battery is improved, but the ease of battery removal deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery protectionVSAvoidbattery accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The battery cover system is segmented into the battery cover itself and the additional module that can be independently attached and detached. This segmentation allows the additional module to provide protective coverage when attached, while the battery cover remains independently removable for battery access, thus maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static protective cover to a dynamic configuration where the additional module can be selectively attached or detached based on usage needs. When attached, it provides enhanced protection; when detached, it allows easy battery access, making the protection level adaptable to different operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9866256B2Electronic apparatus
Publication Date: 2018.01.09 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US9866256B2 patent drawing
  • US9866256B2 patent drawing
  • US9866256B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Electronic apparatus is provided with main body, and inner battery cover and additional module which are attachable and detachable in relation to main body. Battery is stored in opening portion of housing, recessed portion is formed in vertical surface which stands substantially vertically from main surface, and first terminal is formed on inner portion of recessed portion. Connecting surface which comes into contact with vertical surface is formed on additional module, and second terminal which is electrically connected to first terminal is formed on connecting surface. In a state in which additional module is attached to main body, second terminal is positioned on an inner portion of recessed portion and is connected to first terminal, and thus, reliable and firm attachment is performed.