Magnet-Guided Cover Contact Structure for Low-Impact Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

When electronic devices and peripheral devices are coupled with different coupling directions, such as when the coupling direction of a compressible contact structure is perpendicular to the inter-device coupling direction, impacts can occur, leading to defects in the contact structure.

Innovation Solution

A cover device with a bracket and magnets positioned to align perpendicular to each other, allowing for rotation and vertical movement of the terminal part, minimizing impact and improving assembly by using magnetic forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the coupling direction of a compressible contact structure is perpendicular to the inter-device coupling direction, then the assembly direction between electronic device and cover device can be different from terminal coupling direction, but an impact is applied to the contact structure during assembly causing defects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling direction flexibilityVSAvoidcontact structure integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket is designed to rotate about a rotation axis during assembly, transitioning from a non-contact state to a contact state. This dynamic movement allows the terminal part to approach the contact part along a path perpendicular to the coupling direction, enabling flexible assembly orientation while maintaining contact structure integrity through controlled motion rather than direct impact

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The compressible contact structure is designed with inherent compression capability that absorbs impact during the rotation and coupling process. The compression mechanism acts as a cushioning element that prevents damage to the contact structure when the bracket couples with the housing, allowing perpendicular coupling directions without compromising reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Reliability

If magnets are disposed at various positions to reduce impact on contact structure, then magnetic force can guide assembly and reduce impact, but device complexity increases due to multiple magnets and bracket mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontact structure protectionVSAvoidmagnet and bracket configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket serves multiple functions: it holds the terminal part, provides a rotation axis for controlled movement, positions the first magnet to guide assembly, and enables the terminal part to approach the contact part along a protected path. The first magnet similarly serves multiple roles: guiding assembly orientation and protecting the contact structure. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity despite the presence of additional components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket acts as an intermediary mechanism between the housing and the terminal part. It mediates the coupling process by rotating about the rotation axis and positioning the terminal part to approach the contact part in a controlled manner, reducing direct impact. The magnetic force from the first magnet serves as an intermediary guide that enables precise positioning without mechanical complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Reduces impact on the terminal part during assembly, minimizes the overall structure size, and enhances the assembly operation sensation by utilizing magnetic forces to align and guide the rotation and position shift of the bracket.

Implementation Method 1

the bracket may include at least one first magnet disposed adjacent to the first surface and at least one second magnet disposed adjacent to the second surface, the cover housing may include at least one third magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS12265422B2Contact structure for coupling with external electronic device and electronic device including same
Publication Date: 2025.04.01 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US12265422B2 patent drawing
  • US12265422B2 patent drawing
  • US12265422B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cover device of an electronic device is provided. The cover device includes a cover housing configured to cover at least a portion of the electronic device in a first state in which the electronic device is electrically coupled to the cover device, and a bracket including a first surface on which a terminal part is disposed and a second surface which faces the cover housing, wherein the bracket includes at least one first magnet disposed adjacent to the first surface and at least one second magnet disposed adjacent to the second surface, the cover housing includes at least one third magnet, and the at least one third magnet is disposed to align with the at least one second magnet in a second state in which the electronic device is electrically isolated from the cover device.