SIM Card Connector Detection Spring Power Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing SIM card connectors can cause a 'card burn out' phenomenon when a SIM card is inserted or removed while the device is in a power-on state, due to momentary electric arcs generated between the gold-plated areas and signal springs, leading to contact area damage and reading issues.

Innovation Solution

A SIM card connector with a detection apparatus and controller that detects SIM card actions, controlling the power supply circuit of the signal spring to prevent power from being applied until the SIM card is securely seated or removed, using a detection spring and fixed contact to manage the power supply status.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the SIM card connector remains in power-on state during card insertion or removal, then the connector is ready to operate, but momentary electric arcs are generated causing contact area burnout

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontact area integrityVSAvoidhot swap capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The detection spring and fixed contact are positioned to detect SIM card insertion before the signal spring makes electrical contact. The movable end of the detection spring is initially separated from the fixed contact, and only closes the circuit after the SIM card is fully inserted, ensuring power is applied only when the card is securely in place

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The detection spring acts as an intermediary mechanism between the SIM card and the power supply circuit. It translates the mechanical action of card insertion into an electrical signal that controls the power supply timing, mediating between the physical card presence and the electrical power application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the power supply circuit is disconnected during SIM card insertion or removal, then electric arc damage is prevented, but the connector cannot respond immediately when a card is inserted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontact area integrityVSAvoidcard detection response time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The detection apparatus is pre-positioned to detect card insertion immediately when it occurs. The movable end of the detection spring is ready to contact the fixed contact as soon as the SIM card bridges the gap, enabling immediate detection and power supply activation without delay

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical detection spring system replaces complex electronic detection circuits. The purely mechanical contact closure provides instant detection of card insertion, eliminating the need for electronic scanning or polling that would introduce time delays

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Prevents SIM card burnout by ensuring the power supply is disconnected during insertion or removal, reducing the risk of electric arcs and extending the SIM card connector's lifespan.

Implementation Method 1

the detection spring is strip-shaped and has a movable end and a fixed end; the fixed end is secured to the bearer panel of the base, and the movable end performs clutch cooperation with the fixed contact by means of elastic deformation of the detection spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9985674B2SIM card connector and mobile terminal having the SIM card connector
Publication Date: 2018.05.29 HUAWEI DEVICE CO LTD
  • US9985674B2 patent drawing
  • US9985674B2 patent drawing
  • US9985674B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A SIM card connector includes a base, signal spring, a detection apparatus, and a controller. The detection apparatus includes a fixed contact and a detection spring. An action of a SIM card can be detected by means of separation or union between the fixed contact and the detection spring. A trigger part of the detection spring can press against a surface of the SIM card to move a movable end of the detection spring. A power supply of the signal spring can be cut off before the SIM card is separated from the signal spring, and the power supply of the signal spring can be switched on after the SIM card presses against the signal spring.