Magnetic Dock Connector for Misalignment Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices and docks are susceptible to damage due to misalignment during charging and data transfer, as existing solutions do not effectively compensate for alignment issues between the device and the dock's connectors.
Innovation Solution
A dock with a movable charging connector that is magnetically attracted to the device's connector, allowing it to automatically extend and compensate for misalignment, and return to a stowed position when not in use, thereby facilitating easy and secure connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed charging connector is used in the dock, then the structure is simple and stable, but misalignment between the device and dock causes damage
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connector is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. The connector can move laterally within the dock housing to compensate for misalignment between the dock and portable electronic device, preventing damage while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
A magnetic plate is introduced as an intermediary between the charging connector and the portable electronic device. The magnetic attraction force enables the connector to automatically extend toward and align with the device connector, facilitating proper connection while preventing misalignment damage.
2Ease of operation
If a movable charging connector with magnetic attraction is used, then misalignment is compensated and connection is easier, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connector assembly performs self-alignment through magnetic attraction between the magnetic plate in the dock and the corresponding magnetic element in the portable electronic device. This self-aligning mechanism automatically compensates for misalignment without requiring complex control systems or manual adjustment, maintaining simplicity while improving ease of operation.
3Reliability
If the charging connector is always extended, then connection is maintained, but the dock size increases and compatibility with non-magnetic devices is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connector is designed to be dynamically extendable and retractable. It extends when a portable electronic device is present (attracted by magnetic force) and retracts when no device is present, allowing the dock to accommodate different device types while maintaining connection reliability when needed.
4Manufacturing precision
If a retractable connector with magnetic plates is used, then alignment is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic plate serves as a simple intermediary component that provides alignment precision through magnetic attraction. This passive magnetic alignment mechanism is easier to manufacture than active alignment systems with motors or sensors, as it relies on fundamental magnetic properties rather than complex mechanical or electronic control systems.
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 enables quick and easy connection and disconnection of portable electronic devices, reducing the risk of damage from misalignment and accommodating devices without magnetic charging capabilities, while maintaining compatibility with various types of connectors.
Implementation Method 1
The charging connector is moveable under a magnetic force into contact with a mating connector of the portable electronic device
Data Source
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AI summary
A dock for receiving a portable electronic device, including: a housing comprising an aperture; a support coupled to an inner wall of the housing; and a charging connector received in the support and movable relative to the housing for charging the portable electronic device when the charging connector extends through the aperture, wiring of the charging connector for electrically communicating with a power source; wherein the charging connector is movable relative to the housing in response to a magnetic force.