Folding so-dimm socket
AssigneeApple Inc.
InventorsPaul J. Hack, Joshua Funamura, George V. Anastas, Zheng Gao, Gregory Springer, Erik James Shahoian
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Sockets that provide easy access for users to change cards while allowing the use of thinner device enclosures. One example provides a socket having two positions. When the socket is in an open state, the card may be oriented in a direction substantially away from the main logic board. When the socket is in a closed state, the card moves such that it is oriented at least closer to being in parallel to the main logic board.
Claims20
A socket for providing electrical connections for a plurality of cards to a board, the socket capable of being in:
- an open state where one or more of a plurality of cards may be inserted into or removed from a plurality of receptacles in the socket, wherein when a card is inserted in the socket, it is substantially orthogonal to the board;
- and
- a closed state, wherein as the socket is closed, the card moves towards a position where the card is parallel to the board.
A socket comprising:
- a plurality of receptacles, each receptacle comprising:
- a plurality of contacts, each contact comprising:
- a serpentine portion to flex as the socket is opened and closed, the serpentine portion having a contact portion to make an electrical connection to a contact on a card;
- and
- a base portion to be substantially encased in a housing of the receptacle, wherein a portion of the base portion is removed to form a depression.
A socket that may be opened and closed, the socket comprising:
- a plurality of receptacles, each to accept a card;
- a plurality of guides to assist in the insertion of cards into the plurality of receptacles, each guide comprising:
- a funnel-like top to ease the insertion of a card into the guide;
- a dimple to fit into a cutout on a card and to provide a tactile response to a user while inserting the card when the socket is open;
- and
- a locking mechanism to hold the dimple in place when the socket is closed.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.