Shared SIM and Memory Card Holder for Slimmer Device Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
The need for multiple card holder assemblies in electronic devices to accommodate different types of information cards, such as SIM and memory cards, occupies a significant board area, hindering the development of lighter and thinner devices.
Innovation Solution
A card holder assembly in an electronic device that integrates nano-SIM and memory cards using a shared connector with 10 spring plates arranged in a specific configuration, allowing automatic identification and connection to the appropriate controller, enabling communication with both card types without additional assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If NFC communication is used for information card identification, then communication convenience is improved, but security risk increases due to potential theft of identification information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification information from the NFC communication channel and stores it locally in the electronic device. The device obtains the identification information through NFC scanning but then processes and stores it independently, reducing reliance on continuous NFC connection and minimizing exposure to NFC-based security threats.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate processing step where the electronic device acts as a mediator between the information card and the terminal device. The device obtains identification information via NFC, processes it locally through the processor, and then communicates with the terminal using alternative methods (such as camera scanning or direct connection), thereby isolating the terminal from direct NFC security risks.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If QR code or barcode recognition is used, then security is improved by avoiding NFC communication risks, but user experience deteriorates due to requiring line-of-sight scanning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple identification methods (NFC scanning, QR code recognition, barcode recognition) into a single electronic device capable of performing all three functions. This combination allows the device to leverage the convenience of NFC when available while falling back to visual scanning methods when needed, providing both security and good user experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic selection of identification methods based on availability and context. The device can dynamically switch between NFC-based identification (when contactless convenience is needed), QR code scanning (when visual confirmation is required), and other methods, adapting to different scenarios to optimize both security and user experience.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple identification methods are supported, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electronic device with universal multi-functionality, integrating NFC communication module, camera for QR/barcode scanning, and processor for handling multiple identification protocols within a single device architecture. This allows one device to serve multiple identification purposes without requiring separate specialized devices for each method.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the identification functionality into independent modules (NFC module, camera module, processor module) that can operate independently but are coordinated by a central control system. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system manageability and reducing the complexity burden of supporting multiple identification methods.
Data Source
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AI summary
This application discloses an electronic device and an information card identification method. The electronic device includes a card holder assembly and a processor. A card connector of the card holder assembly includes 10 spring plates arranged in an array. The processor includes an interface controller, one or more memory card controllers, and a SIM card controller, and the interface controller is electrically connected to the 10 spring plates of the card connector. When a nano-SIM card is inserted into the card holder assembly, the interface controller connects the SIM card controller and the card connector. When a memory card is inserted into the card holder assembly, the interface controller connects the memory card controller and the card connector. In the electronic device, the nano-SIM card and the memory card are compatible by using a same card holder assembly, to help lighten and thin the electronic device.