Integrated Connector Assembly for Space-Efficient Tablet Hinges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tablet devices and their accessories often occupy valuable surface and internal space with connectors like USB slots, SIM card trays, and audio jacks, which are not ideally located for unobtrusive connections, affecting usability and performance.
Innovation Solution
A design that integrates a USB connector assembly and SIM assembly into a compact volume space, using a rigid flex cable assembly to connect to a tablet board, and incorporates a hinge assembly with discs and magnets for secure attachment of accessories, allowing rotation and orientation flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If connectors like USB slots, SIM card trays, and audio jacks are integrated into the device, then connectivity functionality is improved, but device surface area and internal space are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connectors (USB slot, SIM card tray, audio jack) into a single integrated connector assembly that occupies a unified space within the device, thereby maintaining connectivity functionality while reducing the total surface area and internal volume required compared to separate connector implementations
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated connector assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously - USB connectivity, SIM card access, and audio jack functionality - all within a single structural unit, allowing the device to maintain versatile connectivity capabilities while minimizing the space dedicated to connector components
2Volume of stationary object
If connectors are integrated into compact volume space, then space efficiency is improved, but connector location and accessibility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is nested within the device housing in a compact configuration where components are arranged concentrically or in nested layers, allowing multiple connectors to be packed into a small volume while maintaining access to each connector through strategically positioned openings in the device surface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement within the connector assembly, positioning connectors at different depths and angles within the compact volume, and provides access through multiple directions rather than a single plane, thereby maintaining accessibility despite reduced overall volume
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
Enhances usability by consolidating connectors, providing a comfortable grip, and enabling multiple device configurations, including laptop and tablet modes, with improved key travel and touch-typing experience, while maintaining space efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The hinge assembly may include one or more ferrous bands or discs to receive one or more segments of the accessory, as the hinge assembly engages to secure the top portion of the electronic device to the accessory
Data Source
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AI summary
Particular examples described herein provide for an apparatus, which comprises a computing device casing including a barrel portion, wherein the barrel portion is at least partially cylindrical, and wherein the barrel portion at least houses an audio jack assembly.