Floating Battery Connector Mounting for Portable Computers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing battery connector structures for portable computers do not adequately accommodate size variations and insertion methods of batteries, limiting the ease of replacing depleted batteries with spare ones.

Innovation Solution

A floating battery connector mounting structure is implemented, allowing the battery connector in the portable computer to move slightly during insertion, and is connected to a cable with a secure cover member to accommodate various battery positions and sizes, ensuring a reliable electrical connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed battery connector mounting structure is used, then the connector position is stable, but it cannot accommodate battery size variations and insertion method differences

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of battery size variations and insertion methodsVSAvoidconnector position stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The battery connector mounting structure transitions from a fixed rigid mounting to a floating mounting that allows controlled movement. The connector is mounted on a support member that can move relative to the housing, enabling the system to adapt to different battery positions while maintaining stable electrical connections through elastic compliance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting structure changes its physical state from rigid to compliant by utilizing elastic deformation of the support member. This allows the connector position to vary within certain limits to accommodate different battery sizes and insertion methods, while the elastic properties ensure the connector returns to its optimal position for reliable electrical contact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the battery connector is made rigid for stable connection, then connection reliability is improved, but friction and insertion difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidbattery insertion ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support member is designed with elastic properties that allow it to deform during battery insertion, reducing friction and insertion force. Once the battery is inserted, the elastic member maintains the connector in a stable position, ensuring reliable electrical connection without requiring excessive insertion force.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic support member acts as a cushioning element that absorbs insertion forces and friction during battery installation. This pre-designed compliance mechanism protects the rigid electrical contacts from damage while facilitating easier battery insertion and removal operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS7965495B2Battery connector structures for electronic devices

Publication Date: 2011.06.21 APPLE INC

AI summary

A portable computer is provided that has a housing. A removable battery may provide power to the portable computer. A connector on the battery may mate with a corresponding battery connector in the portable computer housing. The battery connector may be mounted in the portable computer housing using a floating arrangement. This allows the position of the connector to move slightly to accommodate variations in the position of the battery. A cable may be used to route power between the battery and a main logic board. A cover may be used to hold the battery connector and cable to the housing of the portable computer without excessively impeding movement of the connector.