Patent Application
20240213711
The described examples relate generally to cables and wires of electronic devices. More particularly, the present examples relate to interconnects between a cable or wire and electronic devices.
Electronic devices are increasingly being designed with device portability in mind, for example, to allow users to use these devices in a wide variety of situations and environments. Indeed, power sources, such as lithium batteries, can power an electronic device for a substantial duration of time and in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Components within an electronic device, such as, a processor, memory, antennas, and other components, can be disposed within a portable housing to protect the components from damage or failure induced by an environment external to the housing. Improvements and advances to portable electronic devices can be desirable to provide additional functionality in a variety of situations and environments.
According to some aspects of the present disclosure, an electrical port can include a trim ring, a receptacle, and an engagement feature. The trim ring can include an internal wall at least partially defining a cavity. The trim ring can be configured to substantially surround a boot of a plug connector. The receptacle can be coupled to the trim ring. The receptacle can be configured to receive a plug of the plug connector. The engagement feature can be disposed within either the cavity or the adjacent the receptacle. The engagement feature can be configured to interlock with the plug connector. The engagement feature can further include an elongate member disposed within the receptacle, the elongate member defining a distal end configured to interlock with the plug connector.
In some examples, the trim ring can be configured to surround the boot of the plug connector such that the boot is substantially flush with an external surface of the trim ring when the distal end of the elongate member is interlocked with the plug connector. In some examples, the trim ring can define a first aperture. The receptacle can define a second aperture. The electrical port can further include a fastener at least partially disposed within the first aperture and the second aperture to couple the receptacle to the trim ring. In some examples, the elongate member can be a protrusion formed on the internal wall of the trim ring. In some examples, the engagement feature can be an elongate member disposed within the receptacle. The elongate member can extend through the internal wall to interlock with the plug connector.
In some examples, the engagement feature can further include a magnet disposed within the trim ring or the receptacle. In some examples, the engagement feature can be a recess formed within the receptacle and configured to receive at least a portion of a canted coil spring. In some examples, the internal wall is configured to frictionally engage with the boot. In examples, the receptacle can be configured to electrically couple to a power source. In some examples, the canted coil spring can exert a force on the elongate member. In some examples, the electrical port can include a seal.
According to some examples, a plug connector for a cable can include a boot, a plug extending from the boot, and an engagement recess defined by an exterior surface of the boot. The engagement recess can be configured to interlock with an electrical port of an electronic device.
In some examples, the engagement recess can further include a canted coil spring at least partially disposed within a channel defined on an exterior surface of the boot. In some examples, the engagement recess can include a first recess defined on a first side of the boot, and a second recess defined on a second opposite side of the boot. In some examples, the engagement feature can be a channel defined by an exterior surface of the boot. The channel can extend around a periphery of the boot. In some examples, the engagement feature can be a magnet disposed within the boot. In some examples, the engagement feature can include a first engagement feature, and further including a second engagement feature defined by the plug.
According to some aspects, a cable assembly for an electronic device can include a cable, a plug connector attached to the cable, the plug connector including a boot, a plug extending from the boot and electrically connected to the cable, and an engagement feature defined in the plug. The engagement feature can include a groove defined by the plug, and a canted coil spring disposed in the groove.
In some examples, the plug can include a first surface and a second surface substantially parallel to the first surface. The plug can include an electrical contact. The canted coil spring can encircle a periphery of the plug. The engagement feature can include a recess defined by the plug, and a canted coil spring can be disposed in the recess. In some examples, the engagement feature can be a first engagement feature on a first side of the plug, and the plug can also include a second engagement feature on a second side of the plug opposite the first side. The electrical contact can be a first electrical contact and the plug can also include a second electrical contact. The recess can be defined by the plug and can extend around a periphery of the plug.
The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:
Reference will now be made in detail to representative examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the examples to one preferred example. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, combinations, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described examples as defined by the appended claims.
Portable electronic devices, such as smart phones, laptops, tablet computing devices, smart watches, head-mounted displays (HMD), and headphones, have become commonplace for persons undertaking daily activities (travel, communication, education, entertainment, employment, etc.). Indeed, portable electronic devices can provide assistance in completing daily tasks and errands, such as, watching an instructional video or monitoring progress during and after an exercise routine. However, some electronic devices necessarily require a temporary or permanent cabled connection to operate (e.g., charging the device, providing electrical power to an electronic component, interconnecting a peripheral input or output device, etc.). Examples of electronic devices that may require a temporary or permanent cabled connection to operate are disclosed in Provisional Patent Application No. 63/261,254, filed 15 Sep. 2021, and entitled “Electrical Connector” and Provisional Patent Application No. 63/261,257, filed 15 Sep. 2021, and entitled “Electrical Connector,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entireties, by reference. As such, a cabled connection that does not unwantedly or accidentally disconnect can be desirable. For example, a connection that requires more force to remove the connection than establish the connection (i.e., disconnecting a cable from a port versus inserting a connector into the port).
One aspect of the present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a housing that defines an exterior surface of the electronic device. The housing can form an aperture within the exterior surface. An electronic component can be disposed within the housing and include a receptacle coupled to the electronic component. The housing and the receptacle can form an electrical port. The electronic device can further include a first engagement feature and a cable having a first plug connector and a second plug connector. The first plug connector can include a boot, a plug, and a second engagement feature. The boot is receivable within the aperture formed within the exterior surface of the housing. The plug is receivable within the receptacle to electrically couple the electronic device with the cable. The second engagement feature can interconnect or otherwise engage the first engagement feature to retain the cable to the electronic device.
In examples, the first and second engagement features can be one or more: biasing elements, latches, arms, protrusions, recesses, channels, magnets, canted coiled springs, rotating members, sliding members, another type of engagement feature, or a combination thereof. In some examples, at least the boot or plug and the aperture or receptacle can include one or more engagement features that interlock or interconnect the cable to the electronic device. In some examples, the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature can require a lesser force to connect the cable to the electronic device (e.g., insert the plug into the receptacle) and a greater force to disconnect the cable from the electronic device (e.g., remove the plug from the receptacle). In other words, a force required to withdraw the plug from the receptacle can be sufficiently large to prevent or limit unwanted or accidental removal of the cable from the electronic device.
These and other examples are discussed below with reference to
The electronic device 100 can be a smart phone, a laptop, a tablet computing device, a smart watch, a head-mounted display (HMD), a pair of headphones, a combination thereof, or any other electronic device. Alternatively, or additionally, the electronic device 100 can be a sub-component or an accessory to one or more of the electronic devices previously listed above, such as, an external power supply or electrical power source, a display, a user interface, an audio component or speaker, or a combination thereof. As such, the electronic device 100 can be electrically and/or communicatively coupled to one or more other electronic devices (not shown) via electrical receptacles or ports disposed within the one or more apertures 106, 108.
The housing 102 can define a cavity or volume wherein one or more electronic components can be disposed. For example, the one or more electrical components disposed within the housing 102 can be a battery (e.g., lithium battery pack), a processor, a wireless communication module, one or more antennas, or any other component or assembly housed within portable electronic devices. In examples, the one or more electronic components can be electrically coupled to a receptacle (see receptacle 224 in
The aperture 106 can be formed within or defined by the external surface 104 of the housing 102. The aperture 106 can be sized and shaped to receive and retain a plug connector of a cable (see cable 110 in
The aperture 108 can be formed within or defined by the external surface 104 of the housing 102. The aperture 108 can be sized and shaped to receive a plug connector of a cable. In examples, a cable operably coupled to a receptacle within the aperture 108 can transfer electrical power from the electronic device 100 while the plug connector is disposed within the aperture 108. In other words, the receptacle within the aperture 108 can be configured to deliver or provide electrical power from the one or more components within the housing 102 to a portable electronic device electrically coupled to the cable.
While the apertures 106, 108 are shown as being positioned on a particular side of the housing 102, the apertures 106, 108 can be formed or otherwise positioned at any location on the external surface 104 of the housing 102. Similarly, while the apertures 106, 108 are shown as being disposed adjacent or substantially adjacent to one another, in some examples, the apertures 106, 108 can be formed or otherwise positioned at nonadjacent locations on the external surface 104 of the housing 102 (e.g., on opposite sides of the housing 102). While the apertures 106, 108 are depicted as having different dimensions (i.e., aperture 106 is shown as relatively smaller than aperture 108), the apertures 106, 108 can have the same dimensions or substantially similar dimensions in other examples. While two apertures (e.g., apertures 106, 108) are shown in
The trim ring 222 can be molded, machined, cast, stamped, or otherwise manufactured from a metal, polymer, ceramic, or combination thereof. For example, the trim ring 222 can be molded or co-molded from a thermoplastic or other polymer. The cavity 230 formed within the trim ring 222 can be at least partially defined by internal walls 240. In examples, the boot 216 can contact one or more of the internal walls 240 while the boot 216 is positioned within the cavity 230 such that the boot 216 is at least partially retained within the cavity 230 by a frictional engagement between the boot 216 and the internal walls 240. In examples, the trim ring 222 can be adhered, molded, welded, fastened, or otherwise affixed to the receptacle 224. For example, the trim ring 222 can define one or more trim ring apertures 242A, 242B which correspond to and align with respective receptacle apertures 244A, 244B of the receptacle 224. A respective fastener (not shown) can be disposed within the receptacle aperture 244A and the trim ring aperture 242A to couple the trim ring 222 to the receptacle 224. Similarly, a respective fastener (not shown) can be disposed within the receptacle aperture 244B and the trim ring aperture 242B to couple the trim ring 222 to the receptacle 224. The fastener can be a pin, rivet, screw, bolt, a combination thereof, or any other fastener.
In some examples, the receptacle 224 can include an exterior portion 246 and an interior portion 248. For example, the exterior portion 246 can at least partially encompass the interior portion 248. In other words, the exterior portion 246 can act as a sleeve or shell that at least partially surrounds the interior portion 248. The exterior portion 246 and interior portion 248 can be interlocked or affixed to one another. For example, the exterior portion 246 can include a through-hole 250 that receives a protrusion 252 of the interior portion 246 when the interior portion 248 is affixed within the exterior portion 246. In some examples, the receptacle 224 can be formed from a singular or monolithic structure instead of the external and internal portions 246, 248. The receptacle 224 can form a slot 254 capable of receiving and retaining the plug 214. The receptacle 224 and plug 214 will be discussed in greater detail below with reference to
In examples, the receptacle 224 can include a biasing element 258 having one or more latches or arms 260A, 260B. Each of the arms 260A, 260B can form an end of the biasing element 258 such that the arms 260A, 260B make up a singular or monolithic structure (i.e., the biasing element 258). While the plug 214 is disposed within the slot 254, each of the arms 260A, 260B can be biased into a recess (e.g., recesses 262A, 262B shown in
Similarly, the curved portion 266 and the distal end 268 can form a second angle θ2. The second angle θ2 can be less than 90 degrees, such as, between about 89 degrees and about 60 degrees, between about 60 degrees and about 30 degrees, between about 30 degrees and about 5 degrees, or greater than about 5 degrees. In examples, a force required to insert the plug 214 into the slot 254 can correlate to the second angle θ2. For Example, a relatively smaller second angle θ2 (e.g., between about 5 degrees and 45 degrees) can cause the force required to insert the plug 214 into the slot 254 to be relatively smaller. Alternatively, a relatively larger second angle θ2 (e.g., between about 45 degrees and 89 degrees) can cause the force required to insert the plug 214 into the slot 254 to be relatively larger. In other words, a size of the second angle θ2 can be chosen to generate a desired force required to insert the plug 214 into the receptacle 224 (i.e., insert the arm 260A into the recess 262A).
In examples, the plug 214 can include a curved portion 270, a linear portion 272, and the recess 262A. The curved portion 270 and the linear portion 272 can form a third angle θ3. The third angle θ3 can be less than 90 degrees, such as, between about 89 degrees and about 60 degrees, between about 60 degrees and about 30 degrees, between about 30 degrees and about 5 degrees, or greater than about 5 degrees. In examples, a force required to insert the plug 214 into the slot 254 can correlate to the third angle θ3. For Example, a relatively smaller third angle θ3 (e.g., between about 5 degrees and 45 degrees) can cause the force required to insert the plug 214 into the slot 254 to be relatively smaller. Alternatively, a relatively larger third angle θ3 (e.g., between about 45 degrees and 89 degrees) can cause the force required to insert the plug 214 into the slot 254 to be relatively larger. In other words, a size of the third angle θ3 can be chosen to generate a desired force required to insert the plug 214 into the receptacle 224 (i.e., insert the arm 260A passed the curved portion 270).
Similarly, the linear portion 272 and the recess 262A can form a fourth angle θ4. The fourth angle θ4 can be less than 90 degrees, such as, between about 89 degrees and about 60 degrees, between about 60 degrees and about 30 degrees, between about 30 degrees and about 5 degrees, or greater than about 5 degrees. In examples, a force required to withdraw the plug 214 from the slot 254 can correlate to the fourth angle θ4. For Example, a relatively smaller fourth angle θ4 (e.g., between about 5 degrees and 45 degrees) can cause the force required to remove the plug 214 from the slot 254 to be relatively smaller. Alternatively, a relatively larger fourth angle θ4 (e.g., between about 45 degrees and 89 degrees) can cause the force required to remove the plug 214 from the slot 254 to be relatively larger. In other words, a size of the fourth angle θ4 can be chosen to generate a desired force required to extract the plug 214 from the receptacle 224 (i.e., extract the arm 260A from the recess 262A).
Additionally, or alternatively, as shown in
In some examples, one or more additional arms 260C can be paired with the arm 260A to increase the force required to insert the plug 214 into the slot 254 or extract the plug 214 from the slot 254. For example, as shown in
While the description of
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
The example plug connector 302 illustrated in
In examples, the boot 306 defines or otherwise forms a channel 314. The channel 314 can be machined, molded, etched, or otherwise recessed into an exterior surface 316 of the boot 306. In some examples, the channel 314 can extend along a periphery of the boot 206 and between a plug-side surface 318 of the boot 306 and a wire-side surface 320 of the boot 306. In examples, the channel 314 can extend parallel to and between the plug-side surface 318 and the wire-side surface 320. The channel 314 can extend around an entire periphery or substantially the entire periphery of the boot 306. Alternatively, the channel 314 can extend along only a portion of the periphery of the boot 306. For example, the channel 314 can extend along one or more sides of the boot 306 (e.g., the sides of the boot 306 that make up the external surface 316).
In some examples, more than one channel 314 can be formed on the exterior surface 316 of the boot 306. For example, a first channel can be formed adjacent or substantially adjacent the wire-side surface 320 and a second channel can be formed adjacent or substantially adjacent the plug-side surface 318. The relative positions and dimensions (e.g., width, depth, radius, etc.) of the first and second channels can correlate to a position and a dimension of respective protrusions formed on one or more interior side walls (see side walls 240) of the trim ring 322. While
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
In examples, the plug 404 can include one or more engagement features 414 formed on one or more surfaces of the plug 404. For example, the engagement features 414 can be formed on the same surfaces as the one or more electrical contacts 412A, 412B, 412C. The one or more engagement features 414 can include a recessed portion 416 and a protruding portion 418. The one or more engagement features 414 will be described in further detail herein, for example, with reference to
In some examples, one or more angles formed by the protruding portion 418 and/or the curved, bent, or hooked distal end of the elongate member 426 can correlate to a force required to extract the plug 404 from the receptacle 424 or insert the plug 404 into the receptacle 424. Accordingly, the description relating to the angles (e.g., angles θ1, θ2, θ3, θ4) shown within
Additionally, or alternatively, similar to the description herein referencing
While the receptacle 424 illustrated in
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
The example plug connector 502 illustrated in
In some examples, one or more angles formed by the curved, bent, or hooked distal end of the arm 516A and/or arm 516B can correlate to a force required to extract or detach the boot 506 from the receptacle 524 or insert the plug 504 into the receptacle 524. Accordingly, the description relating to the angles (e.g., angles θ1, θ2, θ3, θ4) shown within
Additionally, or alternatively, similar to the description herein referencing
While the receptacle 524 illustrated in
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
In examples, the plug 604 can include one or more protrusions 614 formed on one or more surfaces of the plug 604. For example, a first protrusion 614A can be formed on a first surface 616A of the plug 604 and a second protrusion 614B can be formed on a second surface 616B of the plug 604. In other examples, a single protrusion (e.g., either protrusion 614A or protrusion 614B) can be formed on the plug 604. Each of the one or more protrusions 614 can be machined, molded, adhered, fastened, welded, or otherwise affixed to the plug 604. The one or more protrusions 614 will be described in further detail herein, for example, with reference to
The receptacle 624 can include one or more elongate members 626A, 626B that engage, interlock, or otherwise interface with the respective protrusions 614A, 614B. For example, the elongate members 626A, 626B can be curved, bent, or hooked at a distal end to engage, interlock, or otherwise interface with the protrusions 614A, 614B. In some examples, one or more angles formed by the protrusions 614A, 614B and/or the curved, bent, or hooked distal end of the elongate member 626A, 626B can correlate to a force required to extract the plug 604 from the receptacle 624 or insert the plug 604 into the receptacle 624. Accordingly, the description relating to the angles (e.g., angles θ1, θ2, θ3, θ4) shown within
While the receptacle 624 illustrated in
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
In examples, the boot 706 can include one or more boot magnets (e.g., boot magnets 722A, 722B, 722C, 722D). The one or more boot magnets 722A, 722B, 722C, 722D can be positioned within the boot 706 or otherwise affixed to an external surface 724 of the boot 706. The trim ring 714 and/or the receptacle 716 can include one or more magnets 726A, 726B, 726C, 726D. For example, magnets 726A, 726D can be disposed within the receptacle 716 while magnets 726B, 726C are disposed within the boot 706. Each of the one or more boot magnets 722A, 722B, 722C, 722D can generate a magnetic force which assists to maintain or retain the plug connector 702 within the trim ring 714 and the receptacle 716. For example, the boot magnet 724A and the magnet 726A within the receptacle 716 can generate magnetic forces which attracts or draws the boot 706 to the receptacle 716. Similarly, the boot magnet 724D and the magnet 726D within the receptacle 716 can generate magnetic forces which attracts or draws the boot 706 to the receptacle 716. In examples, the boot magnet 722B and the magnet 726B within the trim ring 714 can generate magnetic forces which retain the boot 706 within the trim ring 714. Similarly, the boot magnet 722C and the magnet 726C within the trim ring 714 can generate magnetic forces which retain the boot 706 within the trim ring 714.
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
In examples, the plug 804 can include a channel 814 and an engagement feature retained within the channel 814. For example, the engagement feature can be a canted coil spring 816. The canted coil spring 816 can be deformed or otherwise compressed to enable insertion of the plug 804 into the receptacle 824 and thereafter rebound or decompress to engage the receptacle 824 to prevent or inhibit extraction of the plug 804 from the receptacle 824. The canted coil spring 816 will be described in further detail herein, for example, with reference to
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
During insertion of the plug 904 into the receptacle 902, one or more rotating members 912A, 912B of the receptacle 902 can be rotated about a respective axis of rotation 914A, 914B to interlock or retain the plug 904 to the receptacle 902. For example, each of the one or more rotating members 912A, 912B can form a surface 916A, 916B that contacts the plug 904 when the plug 904 is inserted into the receptacle 902. The plug 904 can engage the surfaces 916A, 916B to cause each of the rotating members 912A, 912B to rotate about their respective axis of rotation 914A, 914B. The rotation can cause respective interlocking features 918A, 918B of formed on each rotating member 912A, 912B to rotate into contact with the plug 904 and thereby retain the plug 904 to the receptacle 902. For example, the interlocking features 918A, 918B can rotate into respective recesses (not shown, see recesses 262A, 262B shown in
As shown in
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
In examples, the boot 1006 defines or otherwise forms a channel 1018. The channel 1018 can be machined, molded, etched, or otherwise recessed into an exterior surface 1020 of the boot 1006. In some examples, the channel 1018 can extend along a periphery of the boot 1006 and between a plug-side surface 1022 of the boot 1006 and a wire-side surface 1024 of the boot 1006. In examples, the channel 1018 can extend parallel to and between the plug-side surface 1022 and the wire-side surface 1024. The channel 1018 can extend around an entire periphery or substantially the entire periphery of the boot 1006. Alternatively, the channel 1018 can extend along only a portion of the periphery of the boot 1006. For example, the channel 1018 can extend along one or more sides of the boot 1006 (e.g., the sides of the boot 1006 that make up the external surface 1020).
In examples, one or more engagement features 1026A, 1026B can translate into the channel 1018 after the boot 1006 has been disposed within the cavity 1014 of the trim ring 1010. The one or more engagement features 1026A, 1026B can translate along an axis A that extends parallel to or substantially parallel to a length of the channel 1018. In some examples, each of the one or more engagement features 1026A, 1026B can be biased to translate into the channel 1018. For example, each of the engagement features 1026A, 1026B can include a respective angled section 1028A, 1028B which contacts the boot 1006 as the plug 1004 is inserted into the receptacle 1012. The contact between the boot 1006 and the respective angled sections 1028A, 1028B can force each respective engagement feature 1026A, 1026B translate away from the boot 1006 along the axis A. Once the respective angled sections 1028A, 1028B of each engagement feature 1026A, 1026B reach the channel 1018, the respective angled section 1028A, 1028B can be biased to translate into the channel 1018 (i.e., toward the boot 1006) along the axis A.
In some examples, at least a portion of each engagement feature 1026A, 1026B can contact a side wall 1030 of the channel 1018 to inhibit or prevent extraction of the boot 1006 from the trim ring 1010. For example, the portion of each engagement feature 1026A, 1026B that contacts the side wall 1030 can be parallel to the side wall 1030. Conversely, the respective angled sections 1028A, 1028B can extend non-parallel to the plug-side surface 1022 of the boot 1006, such that a force required to insert the plug 1004 into the receptacle 1012 is less than a force required to withdraw or extract the plug 1004 from the receptacle 1012.
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
In examples, one or more engagement features 1118A, 1118B can be coupled, molded, fastened, or otherwise affixed to the boot 1106. The one or more engagement features 1118A, 1118B can be disposed within the boot 1106 or affixed to an external surface 1120 of the boot 1106. The one or more engagement features 1118A, 1118B can extend into the slot 1116 and interlock with the trim ring 1110 and/or the receptacle 1112 to inhibit or prevent removal of the boot 1106 from the trim ring 1110. For example, the trim ring 1110 and/or the boot 1106 can form a respective niche 1122A, 1122B that engages with a distal end 1124A, 1124B of the one or more engagement features 1118A, 1118B to inhibit or prevent removal of the boot 1106 from the trim ring 1110. The distal end 1124A of the engagement feature 1118A can include an angled surface 1126A and a planar surface 1128A. While the distal end 1124A of the engagement feature 1118A is being positioned within the niche 1122A (i.e., while the boot 1106 is being inserted into the trim ring 1110), the angled surface 1126A can more easily enable the distal end 1124A to pass into the slot 1116. Once the distal end 1124A is disposed within the niche 1122A (i.e., once the boot 1106 is fully inserted into the trim ring 1110), the planar surface 1128A can prevent or inhibit removal of the engagement feature 1118A from the niche 1122A.
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
In examples, the boot 1206 defines or otherwise forms a channel 1218. The channel 1218 can be machined, molded, etched, or otherwise recessed into an exterior surface 1220 of the boot 1206. In some examples, the channel 1218 can extend along a periphery of the boot 1206 and between a plug-side surface 1222 of the boot 1206 and a wire-side surface 1224 of the boot 1206. In examples, the channel 1218 can extend parallel to and between the plug-side surface 1222 and the wire-side surface 1224. The channel 1218 can extend around an entire periphery or substantially the entire periphery of the boot 1206. Alternatively, the channel 1218 can extend along only a portion of the periphery of the boot 1206. For example, the channel 1218 can extend along one or more sides of the boot 1206 (e.g., the sides of the boot 1206 that make up the external surface 1220).
In examples, one or more engagement features 1226A, 1226B can translate into the channel 1218 after the boot 1206 contacts one or more blocks 1228A, 1228B and moves the one or more blocks 1228A, 1228B out of contact with the one or more engagement features 1226A, 1226B. For example, the plug-side surface 1222 can drive the blocks 1228A, 1228B out of contact with the engagement features 1226A, 1226B when the boot 1206 is at least partially inserted into the trim ring 1210. The blocks 1228A, 1228B can be disposed within the receptacle 1212 and prevent the engagement features 1226A, 1226B from transitioning toward each other along axis A before the channel 1218 is aligned with axis A. As shown in
Each of the engagement features 1226A, 1226B can include a respective angled section 1230A, 1230B which can ease transitioning the engagement feature 1226A, 1226B from contacting the one of the blocks 1228A, 1228B to contacting the boot 1206. Once the respective angled sections 1230A, 1230B of each engagement feature 1226A, 1226B reach the channel 1218, the respective angled section 1230A, 1230B can be biased to translate into the channel 1218 (i.e., toward the boot 1206) along the axis A.
In some examples, at least a portion of each engagement feature 1226A, 1226B can contact a side wall 1232 of the channel 1218 to inhibit or prevent extraction of the boot 1206 from the trim ring 1210. For example, the portion of each engagement feature 1226A, 1226B that contacts the side wall 1232 can be parallel to the side wall 1232. Conversely, the respective angled sections 1230A, 1230B can extend non-parallel to the plug-side surface 1222 of the boot 1206, such that a force required to insert the plug 1204 into the receptacle 1212 is less than a force required to withdraw or extract the plug 1204 from the receptacle 1212.
Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding various engagement features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Examples of engagement features of an electronic device and/or a cable are described below, with reference to
In examples, the plug 1304 can include one or more electrical contacts 1318A, 1318B providing electrical communication between the shielded wire 1308 and the receptacle 1312. Accordingly, the receptacle 1312 can include one or more internal contacts (not shown, see internal contacts 613 of
The plug 1304 can be releasably retained within the receptacle 1312, such that the plug connector 1302 is retained within the housing 1316 and the boot 1306 is retained within the trim ring 1310. For example, the plug 1304 can form one or more recesses (e.g., recesses 262A, 262B shown in
In some examples, one or more of the engagement features 1320A, 1320B can be biased (e.g., by one or more springs 1324) to maintain contact with the plug 1304. Each of the protrusions 1322A, 1322B can include a respective angled section 1326A, 1326B which contacts the plug 1304 as the plug 1304 is inserted into the receptacle 1312. The contact between the plug 1304 and the respective angled sections 1326A, 1326B can force each respective engagement feature 1320A, 1320B translate away from the plug 1304. Once the respective angled sections 1326A, 1326B of each protrusion 1322A, 1322B reach the respective recesses, the respective angled section 1326A, 1326B can be biased to translate into the recesses (i.e., toward the plug 1304).
In examples, the one or more engagement features 1320A, 1320B can be driven apart or moved out of contact with the plug 1304 to release the plug 1304 from the receptacle 1312. For example, a dividing member 1328 can be at least partially disposed between the engagement features 1320A, 1320B. The dividing member 1328 can have angled surfaces 1330A, 1330B which are symmetrical about a longitudinal axis L of the dividing member 1328. When forced between the engagement features 1320A, 1320B, the dividing member 1328 can cause the engagement features 1320A, 1320B to move out of contact with the plug 1304 and thereby release the plug 1304 from the receptacle 1312. A direction the dividing member 1328 moves can be perpendicular to one or more directions the engagement features 1320A, 1320B moves.
In some examples, the dividing member 1328 moves when an actuating member 1330 moves in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the dividing member 1328. For example, a user can slide an interface portion 1334 of the actuating member 1330 relative to the housing 1316 and thereby cause a sloped surface 1336 of the actuating member 1330 to drive the dividing member 1328 between the engagement features 1320A, 1320B. In some examples, the dividing member 1328 can be biased (e.g., by the springs 1324 and each engagement feature 1320A, 1320B applying a force on the angled surfaces 1330A, 1330B of the dividing member 1328) to move back toward the housing 1316. The actuating member 1330 can move in one or more directions that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the dividing member 1328.
To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID's, home addresses, data or records relating to a user's health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.
The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users to calculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user's general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals.
The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country.
Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example, users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targeted content delivery services. In yet another example, users can select to limit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirely prohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app.
Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user's privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods.
Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be selected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery services, or publicly available information.
The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not target to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.
This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/US2022/076471, filed 15 Sep. 2022, and entitled “ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/261,253, filed 15 Sep. 2021, and entitled “ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63261253 | Sep 2021 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | PCT/US22/76471 | Sep 2022 | WO |
| Child | 18598590 | US |
