Multi-portion Connector for Stacked SIM and Memory Cards
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional connectors for electronic devices that accommodate multiple card types of different sizes require excessive printed wiring board (PWB) space when cards are inserted horizontally, and vertically-stacked designs lack desirable features.
Innovation Solution
A connector design with two portions that can be configured in multiple orientations, allowing for either horizontal insertion or vertical stacking, minimizing PWB space requirements by enabling cards to be stacked and inserted in a device while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If cards are inserted horizontally in traditional connectors, then electrical connectivity is maintained, but excessive printed wiring board (PWB) space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from horizontal card insertion to vertical stacking configuration, changing the spatial dimension from lateral placement to vertical arrangement. This dimensional change reduces the horizontal PWB space footprint while maintaining electrical connectivity through vertically oriented contact points and conductive structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple cards of different sizes are stacked vertically within the connector housing, with smaller cards positioned above larger cards. The connector structure nests these cards in a vertical column, allowing compact arrangement that minimizes PWB space while providing dedicated contact points for each card type.
2Area of stationary object
If cards are vertically stacked to minimize PWB space, then space efficiency is improved, but traditional connector designs lack desirable features
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple distinct compartments or sections, each designed to accommodate specific card types (e.g., SIM card section, microSD card section). Each segment has tailored contact points and structural features optimized for its designated card type, enabling versatile accommodation of different card formats while maintaining vertical stacking for space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing and internal structures are designed with multi-functional capabilities to handle various card types (standard SIM, microSD, etc.). The universal design incorporates adjustable or adaptable contact points and support structures that can accommodate different card sizes and configurations within the same vertical stacking framework.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 2D~3A
AI summary
An apparatus and method are provided for use with a first card of a first size [e.g. subscriber identify module (SIM) card, etc.] and a second card of a second size (e.g. memory card, etc.). Included is a connector with a first portion and a second portion which is configured for being manipulated to have a first orientation and a second orientation. The first orientation is such that the first portion of the connector is positioned for removably receiving the first card, or the second portion of the connector is positioned for removably receiving the second card. Further, the second orientation is such that the first card is stacked with the second card for being removably inserted in a device. This permits electrical communication between the device and the first card when the first card is removably received in the first portion of the connector, and further permits electrical communication between the device and the second card when the second card is removably received in the second portion of the connector.