Retractable connector for use with electronic devices
US6524122B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 25, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 25, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 5, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH05K2201/0311
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A communication card includes a retractable connector that is smoothly extendable and retractable. A torsion spring is positioned within a slot that receives the retractable connector and the torsion spring assists the extension of the retractable platform and counter forces that may otherwise cause the platform to bind as it extends and retracts. A flexible circuit is attached to the torsion spring and it allows electrical communication between the retractable connectors and the communication card. The flexible circuit is preferably attached to the retractable connector and the communication card by zero insertion force connectors. Because the flexible circuit is bonded to the torsion spring, the movement of the circuit is constrained and that helps protect the circuit from damage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.