Compact mechanism for removable insertion of multiple integrated circuit cards into portable and other electronic devices
US5933328A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 28, 1998 |
| Grant date | Aug 3, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 28, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04M1/0274
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Two integrated circuit cards, such as those having semiconductor memory for storing user identification codes and/or data, are removably inserted into an opening of a host electronic device by means of a carrier that causes electrical contacts of the cards to be properly aligned with mating device contacts within the opening. The carrier described is hinged in the opening so that at least one of the cards is removably inserted into the carrier by hand when the carrier is swung out of the opening. In one embodiment, both cards are inserted into the carrier. When the carrier is swung into the opening, the cards are electrically connected with the device. Multiple cards held in this manner take up little more space in the electronic device than a single card currently used. This compact, easy to use connector mechanism is particularly advantageous for cellular telephones, palm organizers and computers, and other small hand held, battery powered, portable electronic devices but also finds application in other electronic equipment as well.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.