To Urge Connector To Supporting Surface Patents (Class 439/40)
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Patent number: 11070035Abstract: Functional modules of a modular system include two or more ferrous conductors, each conductor having a separate magnet associated therewith that is electrically isolated from other conductors and magnets. Circuitry within functional modules is electrically connected to the ferrous conductors. The ferrous conductors of the functional modules are configured to be magnetically attracted to, contact, and receive power from ferrous conductors of a power delivery module.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2019Date of Patent: July 20, 2021Assignee: ECCO Design, Inc.Inventors: Eric Ping Pang Chan, Michael Morath
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Patent number: 10527241Abstract: A magnetic row mounting system includes a magnet holding bracket that is configured to be removably coupled to an end plate of a luminaire. The magnet holding bracket includes a body that has a first surface and an opposite second surface. Further the body includes a plurality of magnet housing cavities that are configured to house magnets therein. Furthermore, the body of the magnet holding bracket includes an alignment cavity that is configured to receive an orientation tab of the end plate therein to removably couple the magnet holding bracket to the end plate in only one direction. Alternatively, the magnetic row mounting system includes both the end plate of the luminaire and the magnet holding bracket that is configured to be removably coupled to the end plate.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2019Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power LimitedInventor: Andrew L. Robota
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Patent number: 10215349Abstract: A magnetic row mounting system includes a magnet holding bracket that is configured to be removably coupled to an end plate of a luminaire. The magnet holding bracket includes a body that has a first surface and an opposite second surface. Further the body includes a plurality of magnet housing cavities that are configured to house magnets therein. Furthermore, the body of the magnet holding bracket includes an alignment cavity that is configured to receive an orientation tab of the end plate therein to removably couple the magnet holding bracket to the end plate in only one direction. Alternatively, the magnetic row mounting system includes both the end plate of the luminaire and the magnet holding bracket that is configured to be removably coupled to the end plate.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2018Date of Patent: February 26, 2019Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power LimitedInventor: Andrew L. Robota
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Patent number: 10107646Abstract: An orientation sensor includes a sensor housing, a sensor actuator, and a motion sensor. The sensor housing has a cavity disposed therein. The sensor actuator is disposed within the housing and is configured for movement within the cavity in a direction that is influenced by a magnetic field between the sensor actuator and an electronic device external to the orientation sensor. The motion sensor is disposed within the housing and configured to detect the direction of movement of the sensor actuator within the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2016Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Assignee: NANOPORT TECHNOLOGY INC.Inventor: Timothy Jing Yin Szeto
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Patent number: 10004516Abstract: A bone cut positioning system and associated method are disclosed. The bone cut positioning system can include a positioning assembly. The positioning assembly can include a femoral attachment member configured to be fixed to a distal end of a femur, a light emitter mounting member configured to receive a light emitter, and a channel configured to receive a depth selector slide. Further, the positioning assembly can include a varus-valgus adjustment member configured to adjust a position of the positioning assembly relative to the femur to achieve a desired varus-valgus angle and a guide member removably coupled to the depth selector slide and configured to extend from the depth selector slide.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2013Date of Patent: June 26, 2018Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth D Johannaber
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Patent number: 9846461Abstract: A heat dissipating apparatus includes a frame, an elastic body, a magnetic member and a coil. The frame has an opening. The elastic body is disposed on the frame, and the frame and the elastic body define a space. The magnetic member is located corresponding to the space and disposed at one side of the elastic body. The coil is located corresponding to the periphery of the space and disposed on the frame. An electronic device with the heat dissipating apparatus is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2014Date of Patent: December 19, 2017Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Chung-Hung Tang, Shih-Chou Chen, Chun-Lung Chiu, Chao-Wen Lu, Chun-Nan Lin, Fu-Mei Hsu
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Patent number: 9548559Abstract: A connector assembly has an insulative housing including a top wall, a bottom wall, a side wall, and a receiving cavity enclosed by these walls. A slot and some passageways are formed on the top wall and communicating to the receiving cavity along a vertical direction. A printed circuit board is received within the receiving cavity. A plurality of contacts connected to the printed circuit board have moveable contacting portions extending through the corresponding passageways and upwardly beyond a top face of the top wall. A magnet includes a top section received within the slot and a bottom section bonded to the bottom wall through melting a part of the bottom wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2016Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: FOXCONN INTERCONNECT TECHNOLOGY LIMITEDInventors: Zhi-Yong Zhou, Xiao Fan, Jun Chen, Jerry Wu
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Patent number: 9300081Abstract: Disclosed are interposer electrical connector embodiments including magnetic components used to facilitate interconnection of peripheral devices to standard input/output, or “I/O”, connectors (such as USB connectors) of devices such as mobile communications products (e.g. smart phones, tablets, and personal computers). The interposer connector embodiments disclosed include those in which a plurality of discrete permanent magnets are arranged with magnetic poles aligned in the same orientation perpendicular to and on one side of the electrical interface. Other embodiments include a plurality of bar permanent magnets located on opposite sides of the interface with all poles of the same type directed at the interface, but each one opposing a ferromagnetic element. These arrangements provide self-aligning capabilities useful for electrical connections that have restrictions on visibility or connection approach geometries.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2013Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 9220178Abstract: A support structure includes a groove and a channel. The grove can be defined by a wall and a lip. An energy consumption device includes a housing that supports a magnet and a first and second terminal and the magnet helps couple the energy consumption device to the support structure. The housing is positioned in the groove and the groove helps retain the housing in the support structure while the channel allows the energy consumption device to be visible. To help secure the energy consuming device, a header can be provided on both ends of the support structure so that the housing can be translated along the groove but cannot be removed from the support structure.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2011Date of Patent: December 22, 2015Assignee: Molex, LLCInventors: Kevin O'Connor, Megan E. Serwacki, Victor V. Zaderej, Stephen L. Sheldon
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Patent number: 8991040Abstract: A reusable electronic circuit assembling system facilitates assembly and testing of electronic circuits. The system has at least one baseboard and one or more assembling blocks magnetically or mechanically attached to the baseboard. Each assembling block has at least two electrically connected conductive clips located separately in the opening holes of the assembly block. Discrete electronic components are connected by selectively inserting the electrodes of the to-be-connected electronic components into the clips of the assembling blocks. A complete circuit is constructed by attaching the above block-component assemblies on the baseboard and connecting them in accordance with the desired circuit diagram.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: 5eTek, LLCInventor: Erli Chen
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Publication number: 20150079812Abstract: A USB socket having a receptacle that comprises first electrical connectors for receiving a USB plug having second electrical connectors that are configured for mating with the first electrical connectors further comprises at least an ejector. The ejector is electrically connected to a control unit for receiving a control signal. The ejector further having a pusher for pushing an inserted USB plug in the direction out of the receptacle to a position where the first electrical connectors are disconnected from the second electrical connectors. The pusher may be configured for activation of a push action as a consequence of receiving the control signal from the control unit. Various possible embodiments thereof are shown.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2013Publication date: March 19, 2015Inventor: Anil Goel
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Patent number: 8926337Abstract: An improved method is employed to attach an enclosure to a connector body having relatively small geometry. One or more bonding channels are disposed in the outside surface of the connector body. During assembly of an enclosure over the connector body, a bonding material is distributed within the bonding channels and subsequently cured. The bonding channels and the bonding material are designed to employ capillary wicking to aid in the distribution of the bonding material within the bonding channels.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Edward Siahaan, Michael Webb
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Publication number: 20140357096Abstract: Disclosed is a plug retention device consisting of a frame applied between the socket of an electronic device and it's plug. The frame decreases the annular gap present between the plug and socket, thereby improving retention of the plug within the socket and preventing accidental disconnection.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2014Publication date: December 4, 2014Applicant: ONED CO., LTD.Inventors: CHIH-JU KUO, EDWARD DEAN GOGEL
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Publication number: 20140322930Abstract: A communication connector system for connecting with a peripheral communication connector having a peripheral housing with at least one of a peripheral contact, a peripheral magnet and a peripheral detent and methods for manufacturing and using same. The communication connector system includes a housing assembly with a mating surface. A system contact is disposed on the mating surface and can cooperate with the peripheral contact; whereas, a system magnet is provided in the housing assembly and can cooperate with the peripheral magnet. A magnetically coupling between the system magnet and the peripheral magnet can retain the housing assembly in connection with the peripheral housing during use. The housing assembly likewise can include a housing assembly detent for cooperating with the peripheral detent. An electrical connection between the communication connector and the peripheral communication connector thereby can advantageously be formed via the system contact or the housing assembly detent.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2014Publication date: October 30, 2014Inventors: Steven Lee Sizelove, Cedric Rhoads, Brian Kirby
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Patent number: 8838868Abstract: A communication port and connector are described. A mobile computing device may include a hardware element, with the hardware element being communicatively coupled to a connection. The connection is communicatively coupled to a communication port, and the communication port includes a first pin and a second pin. Additionally, at least one of the first pin and the second pin is comprised of a ferromagnetic material. Other embodiments are described and claimed.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2010Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: QUALCOMM IncorporatedInventor: Matthew Tippett
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Patent number: 8819745Abstract: An information system suitable for use in cooperation with portable media devices, such as an Apple iPod® digital electronic media device, and methods for manufacturing and using same. The information system supports a simple manner for seamlessly integrating the personal media device with the information system, immersing a user in a rich and intuitive media environment. When the personal media device and the information system are coupled, viewing content from the personal media device can be integrated “on the fly” into the information system via an interactive user interface system. The personal media device likewise can receive control commands and/or operating power from the information system. Thereby, the user can advantageously enjoy his own personal viewing content from the personal media device via the larger video presentation system and/or the enhanced audio presentation system of the information system, while recharging an internal battery system of the personal media device.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2008Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Panasonic Avionics CorporationInventors: Steven Sizelove, Cedric Rhoads, Brian Kirby
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Patent number: 8770857Abstract: Circuits, apparatus, and methods that provide a connector system that can supply both power and data to a mobile computing or other type of device using a single connection. Further examples also provide a power and data adapter that can provide power and data to a mobile computing device using a single cable. Further examples provide an easy disengagement when a cable connected to the connector is pulled. One such example provides a magnetic connector that uncouples without binding when its cord is pulled. Another example prevents power from being provided at a connector insert until the connector insert is placed in a connector receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2012Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: John C. DiFonzo, Chris Ligtenberg, Michael Culbert
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Publication number: 20140179126Abstract: Power cables that include plug housings having an improved appearance as well as employ a halogen-free cable while providing adequate fire resistance. One example provides a power cable having cable plug with a substantially unitary body. Another example provides a power cable that is formed using halogen-free materials. To provide adequate fire protection, a strain relief formed using multiple materials is used.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2013Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: Apple Inc.Inventors: Zheng Gao, John C. DiFonzo, Joshua Banko, Min Chul Kim
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Patent number: 8702316Abstract: Circuits, apparatus, and methods that provide a connector system that can supply both power and data to a mobile computing or other type of device using a single connection. Further examples also provide a power and data adapter that can provide power and data to a mobile computing device using a single cable. Further examples provide an easy disengagement when a cable connected to the connector is pulled. One such example provides a magnetic connector that uncouples without binding when its cord is pulled. Another example prevents power from being provided at a connector insert until the connector insert is placed in a connector receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2010Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: John C. DiFonzo, Chris Ligtenberg, Michael Culbert
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Patent number: 8702594Abstract: An imaging system can include a base unit and one or more imaging units. The base unit can include a main interface that has a plurality of main electrical connectors and one or more main mechanical connectors. A mechanical system is located in the base unit. Each imaging unit can include an elongate support member having a proximal end, a proximal section, a bendable section, and a distal end. Also, an imaging interface that couples with the main interface can be included on the proximal end of the elongate support member. The imaging interface includes a plurality of imaging electrical connectors that correspond and connect with the main electrical connectors of the main interface and includes one or more imaging mechanical connectors that correspond and connect with main mechanical connectors of the main interface. Mechanical actuators can bend the bendable section under control from the base unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2011Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Inventors: Avram Allan Edidin, Xiaolong Ouyang
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Patent number: 8587939Abstract: A portable computing device is disclosed. The portable computing device can take many forms such as a laptop computer, a tablet computer, and so on. The portable computing device can include at least a single piece housing. The single piece housing can be machined from a single billet of material, such as a billet of aluminum. The single piece housing can include ledges with a surface receiving a trim bead and a cover. Corner brackets can be attached to the single piece housing to improve the damage resistance of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Stephen R. McClure, Sean S. Corbin, John P. Ternus, Kevin Gibbs, Jeremy C. Franklin, Elvis M. Kibiti, John Raff, Jules B. Henry, Benjamin Rappoport, Derek W. Wright, Erik A. Uttermann, Ming Yu, Carl Peterson
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Publication number: 20130295782Abstract: A USB socket having a receptacle that comprises first electrical connectors for receiving a USB plug having second electrical connectors that are configured for mating with the first electrical connectors further comprises at least an ejector. The ejector is electrically connected to a control unit for receiving a control signal. The ejector further having a pusher for pushing an inserted USB plug in the direction out of the receptacle to a position where the first electrical connectors are disconnected from the second electrical connectors. The pusher may be configured for activation of a push action as a consequence of receiving the control signal from the control unit. Various possible embodiments thereof are shown.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2013Publication date: November 7, 2013Inventor: Anil Goel
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Patent number: 8510170Abstract: A point of sale (POS) system includes primary and auxiliary printers powered by a shared power supply. A POS terminal includes the shared power supply, a user interface, and a host including a printer driver for dynamically generating primary print commands. A printer connection card connected to the POS terminal includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) hub in communication with the host and having at least one USB connector powered by the shared power supply. The primary printer is connected to the USB hub for receiving power and the primary print commands through the USB hub from the POS terminal. An auxiliary printer has a power-only connection to the printer connection card, receiving independently generated auxiliary print commands from a separate host computer. A controller includes control logic for selectively blocking the primary print commands to the primary printer in response to the signal drawn by the auxiliary printer exceeding a threshold.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2010Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions Holdings CorporationInventors: John D. Landers, Jr., David J. Steiner, Paul M. Wilson, Kimberly A. Wood
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Publication number: 20130171840Abstract: Connector systems (10, 100) for electrically connecting two or more electrical components include a connector (14, 114) having one or more magnets (36a, 136a). Each magnet (36a, 136a) is attracted to another magnet (36b, 136b), or to a magentically-attractable element on the other connector (14, 114) of the system (10, 100) when the connectors (14, 12, 112, 114) are mated. The magnetic attraction helps to maintain the connectors (14, 12, 112, 114) in a mated condition. The magnets (36a, 36b, 136a, 136b) can be oriented so that surface normals of pole faces (37a, 37b, 137a, 137b) of the magnets (36a, 36b, 136a, 136b) are angled in relation to a mating direction of the connectors (14, 12, 112, 114).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2012Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: HARRIS CORPORATIONInventors: Wojciech Mysliwiec, Mark Benoit, Richard Furness
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Publication number: 20120329293Abstract: A magnetic connection cable is composed of a main body and two magnets mounted to the main body. The main body includes a first end portion and a second end portion opposite to the first end. The two magnets are mounted to the first and second end potions separately. The first and second end portions of the magnetic connection cable can magnetically attract each other for convenient storage and effective reduction of the size of the connection cable in storage to overcome the drawback of the prior art. Besides, the connection cable of the present invention with the magnetic attraction can function as a general magnetic fastener for fastening an object, like paper, to the surface of a magnetically attractable object.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2012Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: K. S. TERMINALS INC.Inventor: Hsiao-Han WANG
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Patent number: 8314669Abstract: An electromechanical connection system having a current supply device connectable to a current source through current supply contacts. The current supply device has with switching magnets on a magnet carriage. A current collection device has a release magnet and can be electrically connected to a load is connectable to the current supply device. A safety magnet is restored to a rest position by a retaining magnet or a ferromagnetic retaining part if the magnet carriage remains in a live state even if the current collection device is removed to effect short circuit. A non-conducting short-circuit part movably arranged in the current supply device between two short-circuit line parts, holds the safety magnet a distance from the short-circuit line under normal conditions. The non-conducting short-circuit part connects the short-circuit line parts if the magnet carriage does not return responsive to removal of the current collection device.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2009Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Axel Botsch
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Patent number: 8138717Abstract: Concepts for forming an electrical connection between devices are disclosed. A cord for transferring electrical power and signals can be provided to connect a first device to a second device. One or more magnetic couplings can be provided to exert magnetic forces between the cord and the first device and/or between the cord and the second device. The one or more magnetic couplings can allow transfer of electrical power and signals therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2010Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Monique Chatterjee, Daniel L. Odell, Chris A. Murzanski, Carlos Manzanedo, Victor E. Shiff, William J. Selph, David L. French
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Patent number: 8057239Abstract: A power module assembly of the type suitable for deployment in a vehicular power inverter, wherein the power inverter has a grounded chassis, is provided. The power module assembly comprises a conductive base layer electrically coupled to the chassis, an insulating layer disposed on the conductive base layer, a first conductive node disposed on the insulating layer, a second conductive node disposed on the insulating layer, wherein the first and second conductive nodes are electrically isolated from each other. The power module assembly also comprises a first capacitor having a first electrode electrically connected to the conductive base layer, and a second electrode electrically connected to the first conductive node, and further comprises a second capacitor having a first electrode electrically connected to the conductive base layer, and a second electrode electrically connected to the second conductive node.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Jeremy B. Campbell, Steve Newson
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Patent number: 8022664Abstract: A battery charger includes a housing, an electrical connector, magnets, and sensors. The electrical connector with a magnet attached thereon is received in the housing. The electrical connector is connected to the rear wall of the housing via an elastic member. The electrical connector is capable of extending out of the housing and through an opening in the housing. Another magnet is secured at a front end of the housing. When an attractive force is induced between the magnets, the electrical connector is extended towards and through the opening in the housing. The sensors are configured for detecting that a robot is in position to be charged and for turning on the attractive force between the magnets.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Wen Shu
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Patent number: 7952886Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus is provided with a case, a module contained in the case, a ground provided in the case, a plurality of protrusions which protrude from an inner surface of the case, and a cable connected electrically to the module. At least one of the protrusions includes, on a side face thereof, a conductor connected electrically to the ground. The cable includes an electrically conductive film and is supported by the respective side faces of the protrusions.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Masashi Mikami
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Publication number: 20110092081Abstract: Power cables that include plug housings having an improved appearance as well as employ a halogen-free cable while providing adequate fire resistance. One example provides a power cable having cable plug with a substantially unitary body. Another example provides a power cable that is formed using halogen-free materials. To provide adequate fire protection, a strain relief formed using multiple materials is used.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2009Publication date: April 21, 2011Applicant: Apple Inc.Inventors: Zheng Gao, John C. DiFonzo, Joshua Banko, Min Chul Kim
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Patent number: 7845974Abstract: A power strip is provided. The power strip includes a first power cord to receive an input of electricity. The power strip also includes a housing including a plurality of socket modules for receiving electrical plugs. At least one socket module is removably attached to the housing and includes a second power cord connect to the first power cord.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2009Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chuang Yue, Ji-Ying Jin, En-Long Hao, Qiang Zhang, Lie Zhang, Hong-Yi Tao
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Patent number: 7841776Abstract: Circuits, apparatus, and methods that provide a connector system that can supply both power and data to a mobile computing or other type of device using a single connection. Further examples also provide a power and data adapter that can provide power and data to a mobile computing device using a single cable. Further examples provide an easy disengagement when a cable connected to the connector is pulled. One such example provides a magnetic connector that uncouples without binding when its cord is pulled. Another example prevents power from being provided at a connector insert until the connector insert is placed in a connector receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: John C. DiFonzo, Chris Ligtenberg, Michael Culbert
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Publication number: 20100279518Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments on an electronic hub configured to connect electronic devices. In certain embodiments, an electronic hub has a first configuration in which various inputs and outputs are covered and are not available for connecting to other devices. In a second configuration the various inputs and outputs are exposed and are available to connect to electronic devices. In certain embodiments, a cable may wrap around a hub body in the first configuration, thus covering the ports when not in use. In other embodiments, the ports may be disposed within a moveable member. In a first configuration, one or more ports in the moveable member may be covered, while in the second configuration, the moveable member may be moved to expose the one or more ports. Certain embodiments include a reset button that is operable to reset an electronic device connected to the hub.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2009Publication date: November 4, 2010Applicant: TARGUS GROUP INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: Henry Watanabe, David Jeromy Penrice
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Publication number: 20100197148Abstract: A flexible magnetic interconnect is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a module having a recess therein. A magnetic structure is moveable within the recess and a flexible circuit cooperates with the module to retain the magnetic structure within the recess. Movement of the magnetic structure is caused by magnetic attraction between the magnetic structure and an external magnetic structure. The flexible circuit includes a compliant contact, which changes shape by movement of the magnetic structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2010Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: APEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Charles Albert Rudisill, Daniel John Whittle
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Patent number: 7741806Abstract: A charging device for transferring electrical charge between a variety of sources and clients comprising charging circuitry and electrical leads with magnetically attaching connectors is disclosed. The magnetically attachable leads are used to connect to external batteries or other sources or clients. The charging circuitry may be a buck, boost, or boost/buck switching ASIC or may be a micro-controller.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2006Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Meridian Design, Inc.Inventors: Kurt Kuhlmann, Dan R. Matthews
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Patent number: 7736151Abstract: An electrical connector for a kitchen appliance includes a socket having at least one electrical contact and at least one metallic member. A plug having at least one electrical contact and a magnet which is movably positioned within the plug. A power cord is movably positioned within the plug and is operatively connected to the at least one electrical contact of the plug. An attractive force exists between the at least one metallic member and the magnet when the plug is engaged with the socket and the magnet is within a predetermined distance of the at least one metallic member. Movement of a leading end of the power cord toward a distal end of the plug moves the magnet toward the distal end of the plug to reduce a magnitude of the attractive force and permit the plug to be more easily removed from the socket.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2009Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.Inventor: Weiqun Yang
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Patent number: 7726974Abstract: Technologies are described herein for a conductive magnetic coupling system. The system includes a signal supply component that provides electrical and/or data signals to a signal consumption component that utilizes the signal to provide an output. The two components are magnetically coupled together such that the magnetic coupling mechanisms not only provide the bonding mechanism for securing the components to one another, but also provide the electrical and communicative continuity that allows for the transfer of electrical and/or data signals between the two components. Aspects provide for the repositioning of the signal consumption component along any section of a signal supply component configured as a magnetic track system. Aspects further provide for a flexible, fluid impermeable signal supply component in which a signal consumption component is repositionable along its length.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2009Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Illumitron InternationalInventors: Ashok Deepak Shah, David Diehl Roberts, III
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Patent number: 7726973Abstract: The power cord assembly preferably includes an electrical outlet socket adapted to electrically coupled to the existing power source. The electrical outlet socket may have a first group of electro-conductive plates statically affixed to an outer surface thereof. A power cord is also provided, which remains physically spaced from the electrical outlet socket. An adaptor may be removably coupled directly to the power cord. Such an adaptor preferably has a second group of electro-conductive plates statically affixed to an outer surface thereof. The present invention further includes a mechanism for continuously transmitting an electric current from the electrical outlet socket through the adaptor and to the power cord while the first and second groups of electro-conductive plates are abutted against each other. The adaptor remains intermediately positioned between the electrical outlet socket and the power cord during continuous transmission of the electric current to the power cord.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2009Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Inventor: Jocelyn Perry
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Patent number: 7690139Abstract: Pressing iron having a body (1) connected to a cord (3), such as a power supply cord, and having a cord guide device (5) giving a preferential orientation to the cord (3) at the exit from the body, the cord guide device (5) being articulated on the body of the iron and being able to rock between a storage position in which the cord guide device (5) is disposed against the body of the iron and an ironing position in which the cord guide device (5) is spaced from the iron, wherein the iron has a magnetic assembly (7) generating a force tending to maintain the cord guide device (5) in storage position.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2008Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: SEB S.A.Inventors: Jean-Claude Germain, Laurent D'Oliviera, Xavier Vacheron
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Publication number: 20100035442Abstract: A keyboard connecting mechanism includes a frame, a cable, and a socket. The frame is connected to a keyboard. At least one first positioning structure is disposed on the frame. The cable is disposed on a side of the frame. The cable includes a plurality of pins, and at least one hole is formed on the cable. The socket includes a base. At least one second positioning structure is formed on a first side of the base for connecting with the first positioning structure so as to fix the frame and the cable. The socket further includes a plurality of fragments disposed on the first side of the base for applying elastic force to the plurality of pins of the cable. The socket further includes at least one elastic structure disposed on a lateral side of the base for fixing the frame elastically.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2009Publication date: February 11, 2010Inventors: Chia-Ching Lee, Liang Yu, Cheng-Hsiang Chuang
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Publication number: 20090239393Abstract: Technologies are described herein for a conductive magnetic coupling system. The system includes a signal supply component that provides electrical and/or data signals to a signal consumption component that utilizes the signal to provide an output. The two components are magnetically coupled together such that the magnetic coupling mechanisms not only provide the bonding mechanism for securing the components to one another, but also provide the electrical and communicative continuity that allows for the transfer of electrical and/or data signals between the two components. Aspects provide for the repositioning of the signal consumption component along any section of a signal supply component configured as a magnetic track system. Aspects further provide for a flexible, fluid impermeable signal supply component in which a signal consumption component is repositionable along its length.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2009Publication date: September 24, 2009Inventors: Ashok Deepak Shah, David Diehl Roberts, III
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Publication number: 20090206800Abstract: An electronic device (30) of the this invention includes an external device connecting connector (33) to be connected to a power supplying connector (40) of an external device (41) having a power supplying function, an electronic circuit (31) which performs predetermined operation upon reception of power supplied from the external device through the external device connecting connector, and an electromagnet (32) which is provided to the external device connecting connector and electrically connected between the external device connecting connector and the electronic circuit. The electromagnet generates a magnetic force when a power supply current supplied from the external device flows through it, and attracts a predetermined portion formed of a magnetic body of the power supplying connector, to maintain a fitting state between the external device connecting connector and the power supplying connector. Thus, the fitting state becomes reliable.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2007Publication date: August 20, 2009Inventor: Hiroshi Kudou
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Publication number: 20090181556Abstract: An electrical plug and receptacle relying on magnetic force to maintain contact are disclosed. The plug and receptacle can be used as part of a power adapter for connecting an electronic device, such as a laptop computer, to a power supply. The plug includes electrical contacts, which are preferably biased toward corresponding contacts on the receptacle. The plug and receptacle each have a magnetic element. The magnetic element on one or both of the plug and receptacle can be a magnet, which is preferably a permanent rare earth magnet although electromagnets may also be used. The magnetic element on the plug or receptacle that does not include a magnet is composed of ferromagnetic material. When the plug and receptacle are brought into proximity, the magnetic attraction between the magnet and its complement, whether another magnet or a ferromagnetic material, maintains the contacts in an electrically conductive relationship.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2009Publication date: July 16, 2009Applicant: Apple Inc.Inventors: Matthew Dean Rohrbach, Mark Edward Doutt, Bartley K. Andre, Kanye Lim, John C. DiFonzo, Jean-Marc Gery
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Patent number: 7442086Abstract: A chip card retaining mechanism for a portable electronic device (100) is provided. The chip card retaining mechanism is used for retaining a card (10). The portable electronic device includes a main body (40) and a cover body (80). The cover body is attached with the main body so as to define a receiving space therewithin. The chip card retaining mechanism includes a mounting base (50), a sliding tray (60) for carrying the card, a latching assembly (70). The sliding tray has a first magnetic member (66) and a second magnetic member (68) mounted in a same side of the sliding tray. The latching assembly includes a latching block (74) having a third magnetic member (79) disposed thereon. The latching block is configured for sliding relative to the sliding tray. The third magnetic member selectively acts on the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2007Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Chi Mei Communication Systems, Inc.Inventor: Ming-Shiung Chang
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Patent number: 7266879Abstract: A method for establishing electrical contact includes nonrigidly applying force to a semiconductor substrate in directions substantially normal to a plane of the semiconductor substrate includes a first member with an electrically conductive element and a first attractive element and a second member that includes a support element and a second attractive element. The first and second attractive elements may be attracted to one another to secure the first and second members of the electrical connector to the semiconductor substrate in a manner that facilitates communication between the electrically conductive element of the first member and one or more semiconductor devices carried upon the semiconductor substrate. The electrical connector may be used in stress testing of semiconductor devices or to otherwise establish an electrical connection between one or more semiconductor devices, a ground, and a power source.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: John W. Ladd
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Patent number: 7032288Abstract: An electrical connector configured to nonrigidly apply force to a semiconductor substrate in directions substantially normal to a plane of the semiconductor substrate includes a first member with an electrically conductive element and a first attractive element and a second member that includes a support element and a second attractive element. Attractive forces, such as magnetic attraction, between the first and second attractive elements secure the first and second members of the electrical connector to the semiconductor substrate in a manner that facilitates communication between the electrically conductive element of the first member and one or more semiconductor devices carried upon the semiconductor substrate. The electrical connector may be used in stress testing of semiconductor devices or to otherwise establish an electrical connection between one or more semiconductor devices, a ground, and a power source.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2001Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: John W. Ladd
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Patent number: 6957962Abstract: A network concentrator is mounted on a mounting surface using a mounting piece. The network concentrator includes a mounting hole in a mounting part. If the mounting surface is not magnetic, a protrusion such as a screw is inserted into the mounting hole. If the mounting surface is magnetic, a mounting piece is used. The mounting piece has such a form as to be inserted into the mounting hole, and is provided with a magnet. The magnet is attached to the mounting surface, and a part of the mounting piece is inserted into the mounting hole to mount the network concentrator on the mounting surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2003Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Assignee: Allied Telesis K.K.Inventors: Hiroyuki Tomino, Hiroyuki Inoue
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Patent number: 6854979Abstract: A laminated socket contact is described for reducing inductance in power connections to an integrated circuit package. The contact consists of a conductive power panel, a conductive ground panel, a thin non-conductive layer interposed between the power panel and ground panel layer, and at least one conductive finger extending from each of the power panel and ground panel. Various embodiments of this socket contact may be used with power bar connectors, side terminal connectors or pin connectors.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2002Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Hong Xie, Ram Viswanath, PR Patel
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Patent number: 6478614Abstract: The facilitated-detachment electrical connection device for kitchen appliances comprises an electrical cable exhibiting a connection plug to the electric network at one end, and a magnetised member electrically associable—through a magnetic force—to an outlet connected to the kitchen appliance at the opposed end, characterised in that it comprises insulation means present on said kitchen appliance and/or on said magnetised member for preventing the contact of condensate or the like with the electrical contacts of such magnetised member and of said outlet.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2001Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Assignee: De'Longhi S.p.A.Inventor: Giuseppe De'Longhi