Press/push flash drive
US7524198B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 2007 |
| Grant date | Apr 28, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07C9/257
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Briefly, an embodiment of the present invention includes a portable flash memory drive with a simplified mechanism, based upon the resilient properties of the material used to create the parts, for reliable extension and retraction of the device's interface plug. The portable flash memory drive is comprised of a metal housing (or case), a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, PCB support, PCB assembly end cap, an upper, and lower housing, and in some embodiments a fingerprint sensor and/or key ring assembly. The press/push switch mechanism is located on either the side of the portable flash memory device, or the top; and relies upon the resilient properties of the material used to create the metal housing or end cap, to create a smooth, locking mechanism for the extension or retraction of the interface (i.e., USB or firewire) plug. The switching/locking mechanism relies upon grooves or notches within the material of the upper and/or lower housing for tracking and locking, coupled with protrusion tabs on the sliding components of the end cap or metal housing. Alternatively, in some embodiments of the present invention, a fingerprint sensor is also extended or retracted contemporaneo…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.