Tablet Case with SD and CF Card Reader Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Tablet computers, such as the iPad and Android tablets, are not compatible with certain removable storage devices like SD and CF memory cards, leading to excessive battery drain and inconvenient, aesthetically detracting adapters.

Innovation Solution

A case with an integrated interface that includes slots for SD and CF memory cards, a USB connector, and a switch to manage power and communication, allowing seamless data transfer while minimizing battery drain and enhancing aesthetics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing SD and CF adapters are used to enable communication with removable storage devices, then compatibility with storage devices is improved, but battery drain increases excessively

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with removable storage devicesVSAvoidbattery drain

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The case serves as an intermediary device between the tablet computer and removable storage devices (SD/CF cards). It contains the necessary adapter interfaces and electronics to enable communication, while the tablet only interacts with the case through a standard USB connection. This mediator approach allows the tablet to access storage devices without the tablet's internal battery being directly drained by the power-hungry card reader circuits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing SD and CF adapters are used to enable communication with removable storage devices, then compatibility with storage devices is improved, but convenience and aesthetics deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with removable storage devicesVSAvoidconvenience and aesthetics

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated case: protection function (as a protective case), USB connectivity function, SD card reader function, and CF card reader function. Instead of requiring separate protective case and separate card readers, all these functions are merged into one unified device that attaches to the tablet.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The case is designed with universal multi-functionality, supporting both SD and CF memory card formats simultaneously, providing USB data transfer capability, and offering physical protection. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate accessories and improves overall convenience.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9158336B2Cases for tablet computers and methods

Publication Date: 2015.10.13 MICRON TECHNOLOGY INC

AI summary

Cases for tablet computers and methods are disclosed. An embodiment of one such case has an interface configured to allow the tablet computer to communicate with a removable storage device using a communication protocol not supported by the tablet computer, where the case is configured to contain at least a portion of the tablet computer therein.