Attachment system for an electronic device

Attaching system for an electronic device

ATTACHMENT SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE

<b>Cross reference of related applications</b>

This application is a non-provisional patent application of the following U.S. provisional patent applications and claims the rights of the following U.S. provisional patent applications: filed on August 11, 2014 and titled "Attachment System for an Electronic Device ( Attachment System for an Electronic Device)" U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/036,080, filed on September 8, 2014, and titled "Wearable Electronic Devices and Methods for Coupling Objects to Wearable Electronic Devices Attachment System (Wearable Electronic Device and an Attachment System for Coupling Objects to the Wearable Electronic Device)" U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/047,625, and filed on March 8, 2015 with the title "For an Electronic Device Attachment System for an Electronic Device" U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/129,891. The disclosure of each of these U.S. Provisional Patent Applications is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety In this article.

This creation is generally about an attachment system for coupling two objects together and, more specifically, about an attachment system for consumer products.

Consumer products such as watches, cameras, phones, wallets, and glasses may include one or more accessories attached to them. The way of attaching accessories can vary widely. However, it usually suffers from similar shortcomings (if not the same shortcomings). For example, many consumer products often do not include an easy-to-use attachment system for users. Some attachment systems may require special tools and Other attachment systems may even require the consumer product to be sent to the store in order to remove, secure, or replace accessories. In addition, even when the product has user-oriented attachment mechanisms, the attachment mechanisms may not provide sufficient retention. Even if the retention force is sufficient, the mechanism used may be very stable and large, thereby adversely affecting the aesthetics of consumer products.

In one example, a wrist watch usually includes a case and a strap. The casing carries the components or mechanisms of the watch, including the surface. The strap extends away from the housing so that it can be wrapped around the user's wrist. The strap can be integrated with the housing. However, in most cases, the strap is a separate part attached to the housing. For example, the housing may include a pin that captures the strap thereby attaching the strap to the housing. In order to detach the strip from the housing, the pin needs to be removed. In some cases, special tools can be used to complete strip removal. However, in many situations, the user may need to visit a specialty store or with the assistance of a technician in order to remove the strip.

In another example, a pair of glasses (such as spectacle lenses, electronic glasses, sunglasses, and the like) may have a temple mechanism or a mirror rod extending from the frame. The temple mechanism or the mirror rod can be coupled to the frame by screws, pins or other such mechanisms. However, similar to a wrist watch, special tools may be required to remove the temple mechanism or mirror rod from the frame and/or to fasten the temple mechanism or mirror rod to the frame.

In yet another example, other electronic devices can be coupled to straps or other types of straps or accessories. For example, cameras, remote controls, game controllers, and the like may have straps attached to the housing. However, it may be difficult to attach the strap to the housing because it is usually necessary to insert a part of the strap into a small opening in the housing of the electronic device. In this example, as in the other examples discussed above, the strap or other such accessory may be attached to the electronic device or consumer product in a manner that is neither aesthetically strong nor undesirable.

The embodiments of this creation have been made with regard to these and other general considerations. Although relatively specific problems have been discussed, it should be understood that the embodiments described herein should not be limited to solving specific problems identified in this context.

This overview is provided to introduce in a simplified form the conceptual choices that will be further described in the embodiments below. This summary does not intend to identify the key or basic features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

This article provides an attachment system for a consumer product. As will be explained in detail below, the attachment system can be used to couple an article, an object, an accessory, and the like to the consumer product. For example, the object, article, or accessory can be a cover, a strap, a belt, a strap, a chain link, a coupling piece, and the like. Similarly, the consumer product can be an electronic device, a mechanical device, an electromechanical device, and so on. Therefore, the attachment system can be coupled to the article and further used to fasten the article to the consumer product. The attachment system can also be removed from the consumer product, thereby removing the item from the consumer product.

The article, the attachment system, and the consumer product may include an ecosystem, whereby each of the article, the attachment system, and the consumer product can be interchanged with each other. Therefore, a single attachment system can be used for various items and for various consumer products. Likewise, various items are available for various attachment systems and various consumer products. When the article is coupled to the attachment system, the combination of the article and the attachment system can be interchanged with another attachment system and article combination. In this way, items with different characteristics (such as straps) can be matched to or used for a single consumer product, thereby allowing the strap to be easily and effectively changed or exchanged. One belt can be changed to another belt to consider environmental differences, operable features, functional characteristics, appearance, etc.

In addition, the consumer product can be changed so that multiple consumer products can be coupled to a given strip, but not necessarily at the same time. As an example, a strip can be connected to the media player via an attachment system associated with one or both of the strip and a media player. The media player can be removed from the strip, and then a portable health monitor or timing device can be attached to the same attachment system, a component of the attachment system, or a compatible attachment system Bands.

A common attachment system can be used to facilitate the interoperability of strips and consumer products and other such devices. More specifically, the interoperability can be promoted by a removable module of the attachment system. For example, the removable module of the attachment system can be stored in a storage module of a consumer product, and can also be coupled to the article using a matching structure. By maintaining the commonality of storage modules across consumer products and the commonality of matching structures across items, interchangeability, functionality, and choice can be enhanced. This situation allows for many unique usage conditions, including the use of a strap to physically connect two consumer products to each other, assuming that the strap has a mating structure at both ends. Similarly, by providing a group of objects (strips, accessories, straps, links, charging mechanisms, data transfer mechanisms, cables, brackets, supports, each having a common cooperating structure that can be used by the attachment system , Structure, etc.) and a group of consumer products each having a common storage module for storing the removable module of the attachment system, which can form an ecosystem of objects and devices, which can be used for one Provides increased choice, flexibility, operation and interoperability.

Therefore, and as will be described herein, an attachment system with a removable module is disclosed. The removable module is adapted to be received in a hole, a groove or a channel of a housing of a consumer product. When the removable module slides relative to the aperture, the groove or the channel, the removable module can be locked by a spring bias located in a body of the removable module The mechanism is locked in the appropriate position in the aperture, the groove or the channel. More specifically, a part of the spring bias locking mechanism can be received into the aperture, the groove or an opening in the channel, and the spring bias locking mechanism locks the removable module to the consumer type Inside the shell of the product.

A locking mechanism for an attachment system of an electronic device is also disclosed. The locking mechanism may be included in or otherwise retained in a body of a removable module of the attachment system. The locking mechanism includes a first part and a second part coupled to the first part. The first part is biased by a spring so as to be away from the second part, and is also biased by the spring so as to be substantially flush with the body of the removable module. The second part is also spring The position is biased away from the first part, and is biased by the spring to protrude relative to the body of the removable module.

A locking mechanism for an attachment system of a consumer product is disclosed. The locking mechanism includes a first part having a substantially flat top surface and a second part coupled to the first part. The second part has a substantially non-planar bottom surface. The first part of the locking mechanism is biased by a spring to be away from the second part. In addition, the substantially planar top surface of the first part is spring-biased so as to be substantially flush with a body of a removable module of the attachment system, and the substantially non-planar surface of the second part The bottom surface is biased by a spring so as to protrude relative to the body of the removable module of the attachment system.

A removable module for an attachment system of a consumer product is also disclosed. The removable module includes a body with a proximal end and a distal end. At least one of the proximal end and the distal end is configured to be inserted into a channel of a housing of the consumer product. The body of the removable module includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a latch having a substantially planar top surface and a slope having a substantially non-planar bottom surface. The slope and the latch are coupled together using a flange disposed on the slope or otherwise associated with the slope. The locking mechanism also includes a first spring mechanism coupled between the latch and the ramp, and a second spring mechanism coupled between the ramp and an inner surface of the body. The second spring mechanism and the coupling of the latch and the slope cause the substantially planar top surface of the latch to be offset so as to be substantially flush with the body of the removable module. The second spring mechanism also biases the substantially non-planar bottom surface of the slope so as to protrude relative to the body of the removable module.

A method for inserting a removable module of an attachment system into a channel of a housing of a consumer product is also disclosed. The method includes inserting a first part of the removable module into the channel of a housing of a consumer product. The removable module includes a locking mechanism having a first part that is biased by a spring so as to be substantially flush with the removable module and biased by the spring so as to be relative to the removable module. Mode The module protrudes from a second part. The removable module is configured to slide into and within the channel. The sliding action of the removable module causes the first part of the locking mechanism to enter the channel and remain substantially flush with the attachment system. The sliding action also causes the second part of the locking mechanism to be compressed by the channel, so that the second part of the locking mechanism is received in the removable module and is relative to the removable module. On the flush. As the sliding action continues, when the first part of the locking mechanism approaches a recess of the channel, the first part of the locking mechanism is received in the recess.

This paper discloses a spring-biased locking mechanism for fastening a removable module of an attachment system in a housing of a consumer product. The locking mechanism includes a locking member and a slope coupled to the locking member. The locking member includes a substantially planar surface, and the slope has a substantially non-planar surface. A first spring mechanism and a second spring mechanism can be fastened between the locking member and the slope. In this case, the locking member is biased away from the slope, so that the locking mechanism is in an expanded state. The second spring mechanism biases the locking member so as to be flush with the removable module, and further biases the slope to protrude relative to the removable module.

A removable module for an attachment system is also disclosed. The removable module has an elongated body with a rounded dome surface and a rounded bottom surface. An aperture is arranged through the elongated body. The aperture defines an opening for receiving a locking mechanism. In addition, the aperture includes a first lug portion and a second lug portion. The first lug portion is adapted to hold a first portion of the locking mechanism at a first position in the aperture, and the second lug portion is configured to hold a second portion of the locking mechanism At a second position in the pore. The first position in the aperture is opposite to the second position in the aperture. The second part of the locking mechanism can be actuated in a first direction towards the first part of the locking mechanism and the second lug part of the aperture. The actuation of the second part of the locking mechanism in this way causes the first part of the locking mechanism to expand away from the first lug part and the second part of the locking mechanism.

A removable module for an attachment system is also disclosed. The removable module is composed of a slender body with a proximal end and a distal end. The removable module also includes a spring-biased locking mechanism. The spring-biased locking mechanism has a locking member and a slope arranged through an axis of the elongated body. The locking member of the locking mechanism is biased by a spring to abut against a first side of the elongated body substantially flush, and the slope of the locking mechanism is biased by the spring to be relative to a second side of the elongated body Bulge.

This article also discloses a release mechanism for a housing of a consumer product. The release mechanism for the housing of the consumer product includes an actuating member having a substantially flat top surface. The release mechanism also includes a plunger member configured to cooperate with the actuating member. The release mechanism may include one or more spring mechanisms disposed between the actuation member and the plunger member. The one or more spring mechanisms can bias the substantially planar top surface of the actuating member so as to be substantially flush with the housing and away from the plunger member. In some embodiments, the release mechanism is configured to interact with a locking mechanism of an attachment system disposed in the housing. Specifically, when the actuation component of the release mechanism is actuated, the release mechanism is configured to compress at least a part of the locking mechanism to enable the attachment system to slide within the housing.

A casing for a consumer product is disclosed. The housing includes a channel disposed at least partially along a length of the housing. In some embodiments, the channel has an opening in one or more of a proximal end and a distal end. Each opening of the channel is configured to receive a proximal end or a distal end of an attachment system. One or more embodiments also provide: a through hole is disposed on a first part of the channel. The through hole is configured to receive a release mechanism and includes at least one lug. The at least one lug is configured to retain at least a portion of the release mechanism in a first position. The through hole also includes a recess configured to receive a part of the release mechanism and a part of a spring bias locking mechanism of the attachment system.

One or more additional embodiments of this invention relate to a housing for a consumer product. The housing includes a channel disposed along a side wall of the housing. The channel can include An opening on a proximal end and an opening on a distal end. The opening on each of the proximal end and the distal end is configured to receive at least a portion of an attachment system. The channel also includes a recess configured to receive a spring bias locking mechanism of an attachment system. The recess may include at least a portion of a release mechanism configured to drive the spring bias locking mechanism away from the recess in response to actuation of the release mechanism.

This creation also describes an attachment system placed in a channel of a housing of a consumer product. The housing includes a release mechanism. At least a part of the release mechanism is positioned in a recess of the channel. The attachment system includes a compressible locking mechanism, wherein at least a portion of the compressible locking mechanism is configured to be received in the recess of the channel. The portion of the release mechanism contained in the recess is configured to drive the spring bias locking mechanism away from the recess in response to actuation of the release mechanism. Once the spring bias locking mechanism is released from the recess, the attachment system can be removed from the channel of the housing.

A method for coupling an attachment system to a housing of a device is also described. Regarding this method, a first part of an attachment system is inserted into a channel of a housing. The attachment system may include a spring bias locking mechanism having a first part and a second part. The first part of the locking mechanism is spring-biased so as to be substantially flush with respect to a first side of the attachment system, and the second part of the locking mechanism is spring-biased so as to be relative to one of the attachment systems The second side protrudes. The method also includes sliding the attachment system within the housing. The sliding action causes the second part of the locking mechanism to shrink so that at least a part of the second part of the locking mechanism is substantially flush with the second side surface of the attachment system. In addition, the channel of the housing further allows the first portion of the locking mechanism to remain substantially flush with the first side of the attachment system. When the first side of the locking mechanism is under or substantially below a recess in the channel of the housing, the first part of the locking mechanism expands and is received in the recess in the channel.

The embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for assembling a locking mechanism for an attachment system. In these embodiments, an attachment system is provided. The attachment system can include It includes a through hole with at least one first lug and a second lug. A latch part and a slope of the locking mechanism are also provided. The latch portion may include a substantially planar top surface and a chamfered edge, and the slope has a rounded or non-planar bottom surface. In an embodiment, the ramp is configured to cooperate with the latch portion and fasten a first spring mechanism and a second spring mechanism between the latch portion and the ramp. The first spring mechanism biases the latch part away from the slope so that the locking mechanism is in an expanded state. Likewise, the second spring mechanism biases the ramp away from the latch portion so that the substantially planar top surface of the latch portion is substantially flush with a first surface of the attachment system. In addition, the second spring mechanism causes the rounded or non-planar bottom surface of the ramp to protrude from a second surface of the attachment system.

The embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for assembling a release mechanism for a housing of a device. The housing may include a channel disposed at least partially along a length of the housing. The housing may also include an opening that includes a recessed portion disposed in the channel. The opening is configured to receive the actuating part of the release mechanism, and the recess is configured to receive a plunger of the release mechanism. One or more embodiments further provide that the actuating portion of the release mechanism is coupled with the plunger of the release mechanism. When the actuation part is actuated, the plunger is configured to slide in the recess of the housing and compress at least a part of a locking mechanism contained in the recess.

One or more embodiments of the present invention also provide a method of releasing an attachment system from a housing of a consumer product. Specifically, one or more embodiments provide for actuating a button component disposed in a housing of the consumer product. In these embodiments, the actuation of the button member causes a first portion of a spring bias locking mechanism associated with the attachment system to be driven away from a recess in the housing, so that the portion contained in the recess The first part of the locking mechanism is substantially flush with a top surface of the attachment system. In addition, in response to activating the button member, the attachment system is moved from a first position in the housing to a second position at least substantially outside the housing. When the attachment system is at least substantially When outside the housing, the second part of the locking mechanism is released from the attachment system, which causes the second part of the locking mechanism to be offset so as to protrude with respect to a bottom surface of the attachment system while maintaining The first part of the locking mechanism is flush with the top side of the attachment system.

<p>100Attachment system</p><p>102Replaceable module</p><p>104Consumer products</p><p>106Shell</p><p>108Ontology</p><p>110Matching features or channels</p><p>112Proximal</p><p>114Remote</p><p>116Opening or recess</p><p>118Lock parts</p><p>120Release mechanism</p><p>122Protrusion</p><p>124Arrow</p><p>126Arrow</p><p>128Maximum width</p><p>129Opening width</p><p>130Removable module</p><p>132Lock parts</p><p>134Slope parts</p><p>136Spring element</p><p>138Matching components</p><p>140Release mechanism</p><p>142Concave</p><p>144Channel</p><p>146Attach system</p><p>150Consumer products</p><p>152Removable module</p><p>154Shell</p><p>156Channel</p><p>158Accessories</p><p>160Display</p><p>162Button</p><p>164Crown</p><p>166The first strap</p><p>168Second strap</p><p>170buckle</p><p>172The bottom side of the shell</p><p>174Release mechanism</p><p>180Consumer products</p><p>200Attach system</p><p>205Removable module</p><p>210Ontology</p><p>213arm</p><p>214Top part</p><p>215Open</p><p>216External lug</p><p>217Inner lug</p><p>218through hole</p><p>219Bottom part</p><p>220Lock parts</p><p>223The length of the lock part</p><p>225Sidewall</p><p>230Porosity</p><p>235Slope</p><p>240Protrusion</p><p>245Flange</p><p>250The first group of spring mechanism</p><p>255Second group of spring mechanism</p><p>260Friction pad</p><p>265occlusal characteristics</p><p>270Arrow</p><p>300Shell</p><p>310Outer surface</p><p>315channel</p><p>320Open</p><p>321External lug</p><p>325Concave</p><p>330Spring bias button part</p><p>335Receiving slot</p><p>340Spring mechanism</p><p>345 Plunger</p><p>350Flange</p><p>400Arrow</p><p>410Arrow</p><p>500Replaceable module</p><p>510Ontology</p><p>513arm</p><p>515Open</p><p>520Lock parts</p><p>525Chamfered edge</p><p>530Spring mechanism</p><p>540Friction pad</p><p>550occlusal characteristics</p><p>600Shell</p><p>615channel</p><p>625Concave</p><p>700Removable module</p><p>710Ontology</p><p>715arm</p><p>720Friction pad</p><p>730Occlusal characteristics</p><p>800Shell</p><p>815channel</p><p>820Concave</p><p>900Insert and fasten the removable module of the attachment system into the channel of the housing or component of the consumer product</p><p>910Operation</p><p>920Operation</p><p>930Operation</p><p>940Operation</p><p>1000Removing the removable module from the shell or component of a consumer product</p><p>1010Operation</p><p>1020Operation</p><p>1030Operation</p><p>1040Operation</p><p>1100Consumer products</p><p>1105Processor</p><p>1110Memory</p><p>1115Operating System</p><p>1120Program Module</p><p>1125Removable storage device</p><p>1130Non-removable storage device</p><p>1135Input device</p><p>1140Output device</p><p>1145Communication connector</p><p>1150Additional computing device</p><p>1155Software applications</p><p>1160Touch actuator</p><p>1165Sensor</p><p>1200Replaceable module</p><p>1210Strip</p><p>1220Strip</p><p>123 0Pole</p><p>1240Strip</p><p>1250Strip</p><p>1260Strip</p><p>1270Bracket</p><p>1300Removable module</p><p>1310Ontology</p><p>1320Section 1</p><p>1330Second section</p><p>1340Porosity</p><p>1350Screw</p><p>1400Replaceable module</p><p>1405round body</p><p>1410arm</p><p>1415Slope</p><p>1420Friction pad</p><p>1425pin</p><p>1430Lock parts</p>

This creation will be easily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where similar reference numbers indicate similar structural elements, and where: FIG. 1A illustrates a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the creation The example attachment system; Figure 1B illustrates the removable module of the attachment system inserted into the channel of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of this creation; Figure 1C illustrates one or more implementations of this creation Example of a removable module that is completely inserted into the channel of the attachment system; Figure 2A illustrates a side view of the first locking configuration of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Figure 2B illustrates the basis of the present invention A side view of the second locking configuration of the attachment system of one or more embodiments of the creation; Figure 2C illustrates a side view of the third locking configuration of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the creation; Figure 2D illustrates A side view of the fourth locking configuration of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention; Figure 2E illustrates a side view of the fifth locking configuration of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention; 2F illustrates a side view of the sixth locking configuration of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention; FIG. 3A illustrates the replaceable type of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention Block diagram of the module; Figure 3B illustrates a block diagram of the enclosure of a consumer product that can be part of the attachment system or integrated with the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of this creation; Figure 3C illustrates one of the creations based on this creation A block diagram of a removable module inserted into the housing of a consumer product according to one or more embodiments; FIG. 3D illustrates one or more embodiments of the present invention locked in an appropriate position in the housing of the consumer product Removable module; Figure 3E illustrates a removable module that can be removed from the casing of a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the invention; Figure 4A illustrates the removable module according to one or more embodiments of the invention An example consumer product using an attachment system; FIG. 4B illustrates an example consumer product that can use an attachment system to attach an accessory to a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present creation; FIG. 4C illustrates an example consumer product according to one of the present creations A side view of the consumer product of FIG. 4A according to one or more embodiments; FIG. 4D illustrates a bottom view of the consumer product of FIG. 4A according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 5A illustrates one or more embodiments according to the present invention Example attachment system and removable module that can be integrated with consumer products; Figure 5B illustrates the removable attachment system inserted into the channel of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present creation Module; Figure 5C illustrates a removable module that is completely inserted into the channel of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Figure 6A illustrates a removable and consumer-type module according to one or more embodiments of the present invention A top view of an example attachment system for product integration; FIG. 6B illustrates the connection to the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present creation The top view of the removable module of the attachment system in the road; Figure 6C illustrates the top view of the removable module that is fully inserted into the channel of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention; Figure 7A illustrates A perspective exploded view of the locking mechanism of the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of the assembled locking mechanism of FIG. 7A according to one or more embodiments of the present invention Fig. 8A illustrates an exploded side sectional view of the locking mechanism of Fig. 7A according to one or more embodiments of the invention; Fig. 8B illustrates an assembled side sectional view of the locking mechanism of Fig. 7B according to one or more embodiments of the invention 9A illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the opening in the removable module according to one or more embodiments of the invention; FIG. 9B illustrates the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention A front cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of the group; Figure 9C illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention, and the locking mechanism is between it and the attachment system Cooperate with the movement of the feature during occlusion; Figure 10A illustrates an exploded view of the release mechanism of the attachment system integrated in the housing of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Figure 10B illustrates one or more implementations of the present invention Example of the assembly release mechanism of the attachment system integrated in the housing of the consumer product; FIG. 11A illustrates the disassembly side of the release mechanism of the attachment system integrated in the housing of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention Sectional view; Figure 11B illustrates an assembly side sectional view of the release mechanism of the attachment system integrated in the housing of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present creation; Figure 12A illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the opening of the housing of a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the invention; Figure 12B illustrates an assembly release mechanism in the opening of the housing of a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the invention Fig. 13A illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the removable module of the attachment system partially inserted into the channel of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present creation, the attachment system and the consumer 13B illustrates the removable mold of the attachment system inserted into the channel of the attachment system to make the locking mechanism of the attachment system in a compressed state according to one or more embodiments of the present creation The front cross-sectional view of the group, the attachment system is integrated with the housing of the consumer product; Figure 13C illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism fully inserted into the channel of the housing according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, wherein the locking mechanism is The locking member engages with the recess formed in the channel of the housing of the consumer product; FIG. 14A illustrates the attachment system received in the recess formed in the channel of the housing of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention Fig. 14B illustrates the actuation of the release mechanism of the attachment system integrated with the housing of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 15 illustrates one or more embodiments of the present invention The front cross-sectional view of the actuation of the release mechanism of the attachment system integrated with the housing of the consumer product of the embodiment; FIG. 16A illustrates the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more alternative embodiments of the present invention An exploded perspective view of the locking mechanism; Figure 16B illustrates a perspective view of the assembled locking mechanism of Figure 16A according to one or more embodiments of the invention; Figure 17 illustrates the integration of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the invention Attachment system, the consumer product is configured to accommodate the removable module of Figure 16B; Figure 18A illustrates the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more alternative embodiments of the present creation Replacement module; Figure 18B illustrates an attachment system integrated with a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of this creation, the consumer product is configured to accommodate the attachment system of Figure 18A; Figure 19 illustrates the creation based on this creation An example processing procedure for inserting and fastening a removable module to a consumer product according to one or more embodiments; FIG. 20 illustrates the self-consumption of the removable module according to one or more embodiments of the present invention Example processing procedure for product removal; Figure 21 is a block diagram illustrating the instance entity components of a consumer product that can be used in one or more embodiments of this creation; Figure 22A illustrates the swappable according to the first embodiment of this creation 22B illustrates the removable module and attached accessories according to the second embodiment of the creation; Figure 22C illustrates the removable module according to the third embodiment of the creation Set and attached accessories; Figure 22D illustrates the removable module and attached accessories according to the fourth embodiment of the creation; Figure 22E illustrates the removable module and the fifth embodiment of the creation according to the Attached accessories; Figure 22F illustrates the removable module and attached accessories according to the sixth embodiment of the present creation; Figure 23 illustrates the replaceable attachment system of the example attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present creation Figure 24 illustrates a first perspective view of the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention; Figure 25 illustrates the attachment of one or more embodiments of the invention Removable connection system The second perspective view of the module; Figure 26 illustrates a top-down view of the bottom surface of the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present creation; Figure 27 illustrates one or more of the bottom surfaces of the present creation A top-down view of the top surface of the removable module of the attachment system of multiple embodiments; FIG. 28 illustrates the first of the removable module of the attachment system of one or more embodiments of the present invention Side view; Figure 29 illustrates a second side view of the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention; Figure 30 illustrates the possibility of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the invention The front view of the removable module; and FIG. 31 illustrates the rear view of the removable module of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

Reference will now be made in detail to the representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiment to a preferred embodiment. On the contrary, the following description is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included in the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the scope of the appended application.

This article provides an attachment system for a consumer product. The attachment system may include a removable module that interfaces with a certain part of the consumer product. For example, the removable module may be engaged with a related or corresponding module, recess, aperture, or component of a consumer product, or a related or corresponding module, recess, aperture, or component associated with a consumer product. When engaged, the removable module can be carried by a consumer product. For example, when a removable module is engaged with a consumer product, the module and the consumer product can become an integrated unit. In some cases, removable modules can expand the functionality of consumer products. That is, the attachment system and/or the removable module can provide additional operability for consumer products.

Additionally or alternatively, removable modules can be used as equipment for consumer products. For example, removable modules can add aesthetics or structural enhancements to consumer products. Additionally or alternatively, the removable module can be configured to couple another object or item to a consumer product. For example, the object may be an accessory such as a cover plate, an outer plate, a plate, a strap, a strap, a strap, a docking piece, and/or the like. In all these examples, the interface between the removable module and the consumer product can be a standard interface so that different functions, equipment, and objects can be coupled to the consumer product.

The consumer products that can be used in conjunction with the attachment system can vary widely. To illustrate and not as a limitation, consumer products can be electronic devices, mechanical devices, electromechanical devices, and the like. In one example, the consumer product is a portable consumer product. In another example, the consumer product is a wearable product. Additional and more specific examples of consumer products include mobile phones, personal digital assistants, music players, timing devices, health monitoring devices, tablets, laptops, glasses (electronic or other types), portable storage devices, and their Similar. Although the above examples include electronic devices, the attachment system of this creation can be used for non-electronic devices including purely mechanical watches, luggage, wallets, jewelry, and the like.

The attachment system can also vary widely. In one embodiment, the attachment system may have a tool-free design so that no special tools are required to connect and/or disconnect the removable module of the attachment system or the attachment system itself and the consumer product. Because tools may not be needed, the attachment system can be easy to use and intuitive. Additionally or alternatively, tools or other components (such as components of a consumer product to which the attachment system is coupled or integrated with the attachment system) may be configured to actuate buttons or other components of the attachment system to secure the attachment Connect the system and/or the removable module and/or release the attached system and/or the removable module from the consumer product.

Although tools may not be needed to fasten the removable module and/or release the removable module from the consumer product, the attachment system of this creation is stable and provides The group is firmly coupled to the retention force of the consumer product. Although the attachment system is stable Solid, but as will be discussed below and shown in the figures, the attachment system can have a low profile, thereby enabling the consumer product to maintain a desired or specific shape and/or aesthetics.

As will also be described below, the attachment system of the present creation usually includes a product-side attachment assembly and a non-product-side attachment assembly that can be engaged with and disengaged from each other. Each of these assemblies may, for example, include lug portions that physically interface with each other to fasten the two assemblies together. The assemblies can also be releasably interfaced with each other in order to make the assemblies free from each other.

In one embodiment, the attachment system includes a removable module that mechanically engages/disengages the components of the consumer product. The removable module can be coupled to and removed from the component of the consumer product. In one example, the component may be the housing of a consumer product. For example, the removable module may include a second lug portion (for example, a lug portion integrated with the housing) configured for attachment to the housing (or housing) of a consumer product A lug part. In another example, the component may be a module that is fixed, extends from the housing of the consumer product, or is otherwise attached to the housing of the consumer product. For example, a removable module may have a first lug portion configured for attachment to a second lug portion that is fixed to the housing (or housing) of a consumer product ) And/or extend from the shell (or shell) of the consumer product.

The attachment system may also include a tethered locking mechanism that can be combined with the non-product side attachment assembly. The tethered locking mechanism can be configured to engage the corresponding features of the product-side attachment assembly of the consumer product. For example, if the consumer product is a wearable electronic device, such as a timing device or other wrist wearable device, the attachment system can be configured to attach the strap assembly to the body of the wearable electronic device. The strap assembly may include one or more straps and a buckle that can be used to fasten the wearable electronic device to the user's wrist. In this case, the attachment system may include a tethered locking mechanism that is combined with the strap assembly and is configured to snap into the body of the wearable electronic device or be combined with the wearable electronic device. Corresponding characteristics of the device's body merger. In some cases, the locking mechanism tightens the strap assembly Or locked to the body of a wearable electronic device.

The attachment system may also include a release mechanism that can be combined with the product-side attachment assembly of a consumer product. For example, if the consumer product is a wearable electronic device, the release mechanism can be integrated with the body of the wearable electronic device or incorporated into the body of the wearable electronic device. The release mechanism can be configured to disengage or unlock the tethered locking mechanism and facilitate removal of the strap assembly or other components.

In still other embodiments, the attachment system may include a non-product assembly removable module that mechanically or slidably engages/disengages the components of the consumer product. In one example, the component may be a housing or casing of a consumer product, and the removable module may include removable lugs that form part of the strap assembly. In some cases, the strap assembly includes at least one strap and one buckle configured to attach the consumer product to the wrist of an individual or user.

The removable module attached to the system can be configured to be inserted into the opening on the consumer product. Once the removable module is inserted into the opening, the removable module can slide in the opening of the consumer product. For example, a consumer product may have channels disposed on one or more surfaces or sides of the housing of the consumer product. The channel can be configured to receive a portion of the removable module attached to the system, such as the end portion. Once the end portion of the removable module is inserted into the channel, the removable module can be slid to the deeper part of the channel. The sliding movement of the removable module can continue until the removable module is fastened in the channel or otherwise coupled to the channel or coupled to the channel. Just as the removable module is configured to slide into the channel of consumer products, the removable module can also slide out of the channel of consumer products. Therefore, the removable module can be easily inserted into and removed from the consumer product.

In some embodiments, the opening or channel of the attachment system can be shaped to retain the removable module. For example, the opening or channel may include an undercut or narrowed portion that mechanically engages the removable module to retain the removable module in the opening or channel. Therefore, when When the removable module is placed in the storage module of a consumer product, the removable module can be integrated with the consumer product (partially or fully).

In addition to the above, the attachment system of the present creation may have various other components and modules that enable the removable module to be engaged with and disengaged from the consumer product. For example, the removable module of the attachment system may have various pads arranged on the surface to assist or otherwise enable the removable module to slide within the storage module of the consumer product. The pads can also be used to prevent undesirable movement of the removable module once the removable module is locked in the storage module.

The attachment system can also be used to fasten various accessories to consumer products. For example, the accessory, article, or object can be coupled to or otherwise attached to the removable module of the attachment system. In addition, accessories, items or objects can be used to fasten the consumer product to the user. In some cases, consumer products can be configured to accommodate multiple different straps, accessories, and the like.

The consumer product and the associated strip may each include a common node (e.g., a removable module) coupled to a corresponding node (e.g., opening or channel) associated with the consumer product. Therefore, a consumer product can have a plurality of accessories or straps that can be interchangeable to provide users with many different aesthetic appearances for the consumer product. More specifically, consumer products can be configured to accommodate a first strip and a second strip that is different from the first strip. In addition, each of the first band and the second frequency band may include a common node coupled to or received by a corresponding node in the consumer product. Therefore, each strap is interchangeable with respect to each other and with other straps and/or accessories.

Continuing further from the above example, the strap assembly or strap can be removably coupled to the removable module of the attachment system, and can be further used to fasten the consumer product to the user. Because the removable module is removably coupled to both the casing and the strap or strap of the consumer product, the removable module itself or the strap or strap can be made of different materials. Many other strips of material, design and configuration are interchanged.

In another example, various consumer products may have bodies of different shapes, sizes, etc. However, each body can be configured to connect to a variety of different strips using a standard interface. In addition, each of the consumer products can be configured to connect to another type of non-strip component via a standard interface, such as a removable module, an attachment system, a non-strip component, or connect to another One device.

For example, a consumer product can have a body that is adapted to attach to one or more straps, straps, or other similar components that can be used to attach the consumer product to the user's body. Consumer products can be interchangeable or interchangeable to provide a set of different functions or features. The straps or attachment components can be interchangeable or interchanged to provide desired functionality or features.

Continuing this example further, each consumer product may include at least one storage feature configured to interconnect with a corresponding feature attached to the end or the end of each of the strips or other mating parts. The ends of each of the straps or other mating parts are integrally formed. The containment feature may include channels or grooves formed in the body or housing of the consumer product. The mating features of the individual straps or components can be configured to slidably engage with the receiving features formed in the body or housing of the consumer product to attach the straps or components.

In some embodiments, the storage feature and the mating feature are standardized. Therefore, any of the strips can be used interchangeably with any of the bodies of various consumer products.

In a specific embodiment, the consumer product is a portable electronic device, but the disclosed attachment system can be used by non-electronic consumer products. More specifically, consumer products are wearable consumer products. Wearable consumer products are wearable consumer products that can be worn by an individual or user or fastened to an individual or user in other ways. For example, wearable electronic (or non-electronic) devices may include (but are not limited to) wearable computers, wearable watches, wearable communication devices, wearable media players, and wearable health monitoring devices And/or the like. When used for these electronic devices, attach the system It can be used to couple straps, straps, sleeves or various types of clothes to electronic devices.

For example, in the case of a wrist wearable product, the removable module of the attachment system can couple the device to a strap that can be wrapped around the user's wrist and fastened to the user's wrist. However, it should be understood that this embodiment is not limiting.

The strips, attachment systems, and/or parts of each can be composed of a variety of different materials and/or configurations. For example, the strap and/or attachment system can be made of rubber, metal, woven fiber, leather, rubber covered with woven mesh, silicon, Milanese mesh, stainless steel, etc.

In some embodiments, the first strip or the first part of the first strip can be made of a first material, and the second strip or the second part of the first strip can be made of a different material. The strip can also be composed of a plurality of links, where the attachment system forms one or more of these links. Therefore, the size of the strip can be reset by adding or removing links, for example.

A mechanical joint can be used to couple the strap to a part of the attachment system. For example, one or more pins, holes, adhesives, screws, and the like can be used to attach the strap to a removable module such as a lug. In some implementations, the strap may be co-molded or over-molded with at least a portion of the removable module or lug. The straps can also be integrally formed with features that act as removable modules or lugs. In still other implementations, the strip can be configured to be magnetically coupled to a second part of the part or to a part of a consumer product.

These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to Figures 1 to 31. However, those familiar with the art will easily understand that the detailed description given in this article about these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be regarded as restrictive. It should be understood that similarly numbered and/or named components shown in each figure and described throughout the text can function in a substantially similar manner and can be formed of similar parts and/or similar materials.

Figures 1A to 1C illustrate an example attachment system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The attachment system 100 may include a removable module 102 that interfaces with a certain part of the consumer product 104. The removable module 102 can, for example, be engaged with the housing 106 of the consumer product 104 combine. The housing 106 may include, for example, a part of the housing of a consumer product, an extension of another part of the consumer product 104, a separate part fixed to a part of the housing 106 of the consumer product 104, and the like. In some embodiments, the housing 106 can be used as a housing for various consumer products, electronic devices, mechanical devices, and the like. Therefore, the housing 106 may be referred to as the housing 106 throughout this creation.

As discussed above, non-limiting examples of consumer products include electronic devices, mechanical devices, and the like. More specific examples include (but are not limited to) tablets, timing devices, mobile phones, portable music players, personal digital assistants, glasses, and the like. Thus, the component or housing 106 may have various sizes and shapes based on the intended or actual use of the housing 106. In addition, the housing 106 may include various openings and/or recesses (not shown) that can be used for buttons, display screens, and the like. Depending on the intended use, actual use, and required durability of the housing 106, the housing 106 can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, gold, glass, platinum, or other such materials and combinations thereof.

The removable module 102 can be widely varied. The removable module 102 can, for example, extend the functionality of the consumer product 104 (for example, add operable modules, electrical systems, and the like). The removable module 102 can be used as an equipment for the consumer product 104, thereby enhancing the aesthetics of the consumer product 104. The removable module can also be configured to couple objects or other items to the consumer product 104. For example, the object may be a cover plate, an outer plate, a plate, a strap, a strap, a strap, and/or the like. The interface can be a standard interface so that different objects can be attached to the consumer product 104 via the attachment system 100.

The removable module 102 may include a body 108 configured for insertion into the mating feature or channel 110 of the housing 106 of the consumer product 104. For example, FIG. 1A shows the removable module 102 outside the channel 110, and FIG. 1C shows the removable module 102 inserted in the channel 110. When the removable module 102 is inserted into the channel 110, the removable module 102 is engaged with the consumer product 104 or otherwise fastened to the consumer product 104, so that the consumer product 104 carries the removable Changeable module 102 (for example, two parts become whole Well-formed unit).

The shape of the body 108 of the removable module 102 can correspond to the shape of the channel 110. For example, if the channel 110 is rounded or has another shape, the removable module 102 may have a similar shape. Therefore, the removable module 102 can be matched with the channel 110, assembled in the channel 110, or received and included in the channel 110 in other ways.

In addition, the length of the main body 108 or the total length of the removable module 102 may generally correspond to the length of the channel 110. In some situations, when fully engaged, such as shown in FIG. 1C, the end of the removable module 102 may be flush or substantially flush with the outer surface or sidewall of the housing 106. In other implementations, the length of the removable module 102 can be less than or greater than the length of the channel 110. Therefore, the removable module 102 can protrude from one or more sides of the channel 110.

The body 108 of the removable module 102 can be configured to snap into the housing 106 by sliding in the channel 110, such as shown in FIG. 1B. Although not shown, key features may be provided to ensure proper alignment between the removable module 102 and the housing 106. In addition, retention features such as undercuts or flanges may be provided to prevent disengagement in a direction perpendicular to the length of the channel 110.

In some implementations, the channel 110 of the consumer product 104 may be sized and shaped to provide sliding movement, but not to provide movement perpendicular to the sliding direction. The channel 110 may include a single open end for receiving the body 108. Alternatively, the channel 110 may include opposed open ends for receiving the body (as shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C).

The removable module 102 can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, gold, platinum, or other such materials and combinations thereof. Although specific materials are mentioned, the components of the removable module 102 and/or the attachment system 100 may be manufactured from various other materials. Similarly, the housing 106 of the consumer product 104 can be made of similar or different materials or combinations of materials.

The body 108 of the removable module 102 includes a proximal end 112 and a distal end 114. The proximal end 112 and the distal end 114 of the removable module 102 may each have arms extending beyond the width of the body 108 (Not shown).

The removable module 102 may have openings or recesses 116 for storing accessories, objects, articles, and the like. For example, the recess 116 may be configured to receive a pin (not shown) or to enable a strap or strap (such as a strap or other accessory 158 (FIG. 4A) or another device or component) to be removable In addition to other connecting mechanisms attached to the removable module 102 in a manner.

The removable module 102 may be a single single piece having a shape conforming to the shape of the housing 106. That is, when the removable module is inserted into the housing 106, the shape of the removable module 102 serves as a blank for filling the channel 110 of the housing 106. In such implementations, arms, slots, or other apertures may not be present in the removable module 102.

When arms or other such attachment mechanisms are included on the removable module 102, the inner side of each arm may include a recess. The recess can be used to couple or fasten various accessories to the removable module 102. In other implementations, the arm of the removable module 102 may include one or more protrusions. The attachment may have one or more stoppers that cooperate with the protrusions. In another embodiment, the arms, recesses, and/or protrusions may be magnetized to enable a magnetic connection between the removable module 102 and the accessory. Although not specifically mentioned, other connection mechanisms may be used between the removable module 102 and the accessory. Examples include buckles, hooks, etc.

The body 108 of the removable module 102 may also include openings or holes (not shown) extending from the top surface of the body 108 to the bottom side of the body 108. The opening accommodates and fastens the locking mechanism in the removable module 102. As will be explained in more detail below, the locking mechanism may include a spring-loaded locking mechanism, which includes a latch member 118 and a ramp member (not shown). The spring of the locking mechanism positions the locking member 118 to be flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the body 108. The spring can also be configured so that when the removable module 102 is fully inserted into the channel 110, the locking member 118 is received in the opening or recess in the channel 110.

The locking mechanism can be centrally located on the body 108 of the removable module 102, but this is not required. In other embodiments, the locking mechanism may be located at other areas on the body 108. In addition, although a single locking mechanism is shown on the main body 108, the removable module 102 There may be multiple locking mechanisms at various positions on the body 108. Alternatively or in addition, the locking mechanism may be located in or on the housing 106.

In other embodiments, the opening may partially extend through the body 108 of the removable module 102. Hereinafter, an example locking mechanism according to this embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 16A and 16B.

The locking member 118 of the locking mechanism may have a top surface which is concave, flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the body 108 when the locking mechanism is in its nominal state. In some cases, the slope member (not shown) or the bottom portion of the locking mechanism may be biased by a spring to protrude relative to the bottom surface of the body 108. Therefore, the bottom surface of the slope member extends or protrudes beyond the bottom surface of the body 108. When the ramp member is forced into the opening of the removable module 102 (for example, when the removable module 102 is inserted into the channel 110), the internal spring of the locking mechanism can apply outward to the locking member 118 The outward force can cause the locking member 118 to extend or protrude beyond the top surface of the body 108 and into the corresponding recess or aperture formed in the side wall of the channel 110.

Because the locking mechanism is spring-biased in a specific manner, when the ramp member is retracted or pushed into the opening, the spring mechanism in the locking mechanism causes the locking member 118 to move from the first position (for example, recessed, flush, or substantially The upper flush position) moves to the second position (if the available space in the passage permits expansion).

The second position is a position when at least a part of the locking member 118 extends beyond the top surface of the body 108. However, when the removable module 102 and, more specifically, the locking member 118 slides in the channel 110 or is contained in the channel 110, the locking member 118 will not move from the first position to the second position until The locking member 118 approaches the recess formed in the channel 110 (when the recess permits expansion).

Once the locking member 118 approaches the recess in the channel 110, the locking mechanism expands so that at least a portion of the locking member 118 extends from the body 108 and is received in the recess. Once the locking member 118 is received in the recess, the removable module 102 is locked in the proper place in the channel 110 When in position.

The recess of the channel 110 is shaped and positioned in the following manner so that when the removable module 102 reaches the determined point in the channel, the locking member 118 can be directly received in the recess. The determined point in the channel 110 may be the time point when the main body 108 of the removable module 102 is centrally positioned in the channel 110. In some cases, the determined point may be that the proximal end 112 and the distal end 114 of the removable module 102 are flush or substantially flush with one or more side walls of the housing 106 and/or one or more openings of the channel 110 On the flush position.

In order to unlock and subsequently remove the removable module 102 from the housing 106, the housing 106 includes a release mechanism 120. The actuation of the release mechanism displaces the locking member 118 from the recess in the channel. Once the locking member 118 is removed from the recess, the removable module 102 can be slid in the channel 110 or completely removed from the channel 110.

When the removable module 102 is removed from the channel 110, the spring mechanism in the locking mechanism causes the ramp member to expand or protrude outward from the body 108 of the removable module 102. Therefore, the ramp member is again biased by the spring to protrude relative to the bottom surface of the body 108. The spring mechanism that biases the ramp member so as to protrude relative to the main body 108 also biases the lock member 118 to be flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the main body 108.

The body 108 of the removable module 102 may also include one or more protrusions 122. The protrusion 122 may be positioned on one or both of the top surface of the body 108 and the bottom surface of the body 108. In addition, the protrusion 122 can be positioned on one side of the locking mechanism or on both sides of the locking mechanism. In other embodiments, the protrusion 122 may not be present on the body 108.

The protrusion 122 can be used to increase the friction between the removable module 102 and the channel 110. For example, the protrusion 122 can add a feeling of damping when the removable module 102 is inserted into the channel 110, and reduce or eliminate any rattling sound that may occur. In another embodiment, the channel 110 may include protrusions configured to mate with corresponding recesses on the removable module. The protrusion 122 may be made of nylon, silicon or other such materials.

Although it is shown that the removable module 102 and its associated components have a specific shape, The removable module 102 and its associated components can have any shape. For example, the body 108 of the removable module 102 may be round, square, triangular, or the like. Non-limiting examples of various shapes are shown in Figures 2A to 2F.

If present on the main body 108, the arms of the removable module 102 can also have any desired shape, orientation or size. In addition, the locking member 118, the slope and/or the protrusion 122 may also have various sizes and shapes.

The housing 106 of the consumer product 104 may include a channel 110 arranged along at least one side or side wall. Although a single channel 110 is shown in FIG. 1A, the housing 106 may have any number of channels 110 disposed on each side. The channel 110 may include an opening at the distal end and an opening at the proximal end.

Although FIG. 1A depicts the channel 110 having openings at both the distal and proximal ends, the channel 110 may have an opening at one end (e.g., the distal end) and closed at the other end (e.g., the proximal end 112) or be solid. In these embodiments, the removable module 102 can travel in the channel 110 until one end (for example, the proximal end 112) of the removable module 102 contacts the closed end of the channel 110.

Once the end of the channel 110 is reached, the spring bias locking mechanism can be used to fasten the proximal end 112 of the removable module 102 to the closed end of the channel 110. Alternatively or in addition, a spring bias locking mechanism can be used to fasten the proximal end 112 of the removable module within the recess of the channel 110, such as described above.

Alternatively, one or more magnets or other fastening mechanisms may be positioned at or near the closed end of the channel 110. Therefore, when the proximal end 112 or the distal end 114 of the removable module 102 is close to or in contact with the magnet, the removable module 102 can be magnetically fastened in the channel 110.

Although the button portion of the display channel 110 and the release mechanism 120 have a specific shape and orientation, each of the aforementioned elements can have any shape and orientation. For example, the channel 110 may be rounded or polygonal. In addition, the channel 110 can be located at any desired position and angle Directional. For example, the channel 110 can be positioned below the centerline of the housing. The channel 110 can be positioned below the display or other components of the consumer product 104. The button part of the release mechanism 120 can have any desired shape and size and can be positioned at any desired position on the housing 106.

FIG. 1B illustrates the removable module 102 shown in FIG. 1A partially inserted into the channel 110 of the housing 106 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1B, the proximal end 112 of the removable module 102 can be inserted into the opening of the channel 110 of the housing 106 in the direction indicated by the arrow 124.

Although FIG. 1B shows that the proximal end 112 of the removable module 102 is inserted into the opening of the channel 110 and slides in the direction of the arrow 124, the distal end 114 of the removable module 102 can be inserted into the channel 110 and It can slide in the channel 110 in the direction indicated by the arrow 126. Regardless of the direction in which the removable module 102 is inserted into the channel 110, the removable module 102 can be slid or moved in the channel 110 in any direction until the locking mechanism and, more specifically, the lock of the locking mechanism The component 118 is received in the recess of the channel 110.

When the removable module 102 is inserted into the channel 110, a part of the channel 110 contacts the ramp part of the locking mechanism. The continued movement in the direction indicated by the arrow 124 compresses the ramp member or otherwise forces the ramp member into the body 108 of the removable module 102. Further movement in the indicated direction brings the locking mechanism into a fully compressed state (for example, both the ramp member and the locking member 118 are included in the body 108 of the removable module 102 and both the ramp member and the locking member 118 The state in which expansion is prohibited).

FIG. 1C illustrates an attachment system 100 having a removable module 102 that completely engages with the housing 106 of the consumer product 104 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As previously discussed, when the removable module 102 is positioned centrally in the channel 110, the removable module 102 is completely engaged with the housing 106. However, in other embodiments, when the removable module is offset or otherwise not positioned centrally in the channel 110, the removable module 102 can be completely engaged with the housing 106.

When the removable module 102 is completely inserted into the channel 110, a part of the removable module 102 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the length of the channel 110. In other embodiments, the extension of the removable module 102 may not be present. In still other embodiments, the removable module 102 may be flush with or substantially flush with the channel 110 or may be recessed in the channel 110. Similarly, each of the proximal end 112 and the distal end 114 of the removable module 102 may extend from, be flush with or substantially flush with each of the following, or be recessed from: One or more edges or side walls of the housing 106, and/or one or more edges or sides of the channel 110.

For example, the side wall of the proximal end 112 of the removable module 102 and the side wall of the distal end 114 of the removable module 102 may have a shape complementary to the shape of the side wall of the housing 106. Therefore, when the removable module 102 is locked in a proper position in the channel 110 of the housing 106, the side walls of the removable module 102 and the housing 106 are flush and/or smooth with respect to each other. That is, the shape of the side wall of the removable module 102 can match the shape of the side wall of the housing 106 or coordinate with the side wall of the housing 106 in other ways.

In an alternative embodiment, when the removable module 102 is locked in the channel 110 or otherwise engaged with the channel 110, the proximal end 112 and the distal end 114 of the removable module 102 can protrude from the housing 106 or extend. Alternatively, the length of the channel 110 and/or the housing 106 may be longer than the length of the removable module 102. In these cases, the proximal end 112 and the distal end 114 of the removable module 102 may be recessed in the channel 110 or the housing 106. In addition, one or more of the proximal end 112 and the distal end 114 may have a surface extending around the diameter of the distal end. The surface may engage with the housing 106 and/or the channel 110 to prevent or prohibit the removable module 102 from moving further in the channel.

When fully engaged with the removable module 102, the locking mechanism engages with the housing 106. For example, when the locking member 118 of the locking mechanism (FIG. 1A) approaches or is below the recess in the channel 110, one or more spring mechanisms in the locking mechanism causes the locking member 118 of the locking mechanism to expand to the recess middle.

More specifically, one or more springs in the locking mechanism can make the locking member 118 move from the first position to the second position. In the first position, the locking member 118 is relative to the removable module 102. The top surface of the main body 108 is flush or substantially flush. In the second position, at least a portion of the locking member 118 extends from the top surface of the main body 108 and is received in the recess. Once stored in the recess, the locking member prevents the removable module 102 from moving in the housing 106.

When the removable module 102 is completely engaged with the housing 106, the removable module 102 is retained until the removable module is released. In some cases, when the button portion of the release mechanism 120 is actuated, the locking mechanism of the removable module 102 can be released from the recess. For example, the release mechanism 120 or a part of the release mechanism 120 may be located in the recess of the housing 106 above the locking member 118. When the button part of the release mechanism 120 is actuated, the plunger of the release mechanism 120 pushes or drives the locking member 118 of the locking mechanism away from the recess. Once the locking member 118 no longer engages with the recess, the removable module 102 can slide in the channel 110 again.

In some embodiments, the housing 106 may not include the release mechanism 120. For example, the locking mechanism or the recess may be shaped so that when a force is applied to one end of the removable module 102, the removable module 102 moves in the direction in which the force is applied. When the removable module 102 moves, one or more side walls of the recess cause the locking mechanism to contract and disengage from the recess. As the removable module 102 moves in the direction in which the force is applied, the contraction of the locking mechanism continues. Therefore, the locking mechanism enters a compressed state (for example, the locking mechanism is included in the body 108 of the removable module 102). When the locking mechanism is in a compressed state, the removable module 102 can slide in the channel 110, such as described previously.

The removable module 102 may have straps, straps, or other such accessories, objects, or objects that can be removably coupled to it. Although straps and straps are specifically mentioned, the removable module 102 can be coupled to various accessories or devices. For example, the removable module 102 can be used to fasten clips, straps, docking pieces, housings, or protective covers to the consumer product 104. exist The removable module 102 is used to couple straps, straps or other such accessories, articles or objects to the embodiment of the consumer product 104. Pins (not shown) and buckles (not shown) can be used. (Shown), a buckle mechanism (not shown) or other types of attachment mechanisms attach the strap or strap to the removable module 102. The strap or strap can be used to fasten the consumer product 104 to a user of the consumer product 104 or to a piece of clothing, a stand, a display system, or any suitable item.

Although square side walls and channels are shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the side walls and components of the body 108 of the removable module 102 or the side walls of the housing 106 (in detail, the proximal and distal ends of the channel 110) may have Any desired shape, as long as the shapes are complementary to each other. For example, the body 108 of the removable module 102 may be rounded, square, triangular, and the like, such as shown in FIGS. 2A to 2F.

More specifically, and as shown in FIGS. 2A to 2F, the side walls of the proximal and distal ends of the removable module 102 and the side walls of the housing 106 and/or the channel 110 may have one or more flanges (FIG. 2A). In other implementations, the channels and removable modules can be trapezoidal (Figure 2B), curved (Figure 2C), oval (Figure 2D), polygonal (Figure 2E), or have another such type. Shape (such as that shown in Figure 2F). Likewise, the attachment system can be configured in the housing 106 in any desired orientation.

The channel 110 may have an undercut that retains the removable module 102 in the channel 110. The channel 110 of the housing 106 has an opening width 129 at the opening of the channel 110 and a maximum width 128 in the channel. The maximum width 128 may be greater than the opening width 129 to form an undercut. Similarly, the removable module 102 may have a first portion having a first thickness smaller than the opening width 129 of the channel 110 and a second thickness smaller than the maximum width 128 of the channel 110 but also greater than the opening width 129. Therefore, due to the undercut formed by the channel 110, the opening width 129 of the channel can be configured to limit the movement of the removable module 102 in a direction perpendicular to the opening.

Figures 3A to 3E are removable molds that are engaged with the mating features of the mating component 138 A simplified example of the attachment system of group 130. The mating component 138 can be the housing or body of a device or other types of consumer products. The attachment system of FIGS. 3A to 3E may be similar to the attachment system 100 discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1A to 1C, as well as other attachment systems, removable modules, and the like disclosed herein.

FIG. 3A illustrates a block diagram of an example removable module 130 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3A, the removable module 130 may include a locking mechanism having a locking member 132 and a ramp member 134. In some embodiments, the locking member 132 is coupled to the ramp member 134 by a spring element 136. In some embodiments, when the locking mechanism is in an expanded state (as shown in FIG. 3A), the locking member 132 can be biased by a spring to be flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the removable module 130 Flush. In addition, the ramp component 134 of the locking mechanism can be biased by a spring to protrude relative to the bottom side of the removable module 130.

FIG. 3B illustrates a block diagram of a housing or component 138 of a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The component 138 may be a housing for an electronic device, such as described herein. The assembly 138 may include mating features, such as a channel 144 having two ends and an opening extending between the ends. The channel 144 may have a single opening at one end of the channel 144. The channel 144 can be configured to receive the removable module 130 of FIG. 3A.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the assembly 138 may also include a release mechanism 140 positioned relative to the channel 144. The release mechanism 140 may be positioned in the recess 142 formed in the side wall of the channel 144 or relative to the recess 142. The actuation of the release mechanism 140 drives the locking member 132 (FIG. 3A) away from the recess 142 and disengages the removable module 130 from the assembly 138.

3C illustrates a block diagram of an attachment system 146 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the attachment system having a removable module 130 inserted into the housing or assembly 138 of a consumer product. The first end of the removable module 130 can be inserted into the opening of the channel 144 of the component 138. As the removable module 130 is inserted deeper into the channel 144 of the assembly 138, the slope member 134 contacts the bottom portion of the channel 144, so that the slope member 134 of the removable module 130 is compressed.

As shown in FIG. 3C, the upward or inward movement of the ramp member 134 can cause compression of the spring element 136, which generates an upward or outward force on the lock member 132. If the movement of the locking member 132 is not hindered, the upward or outward force caused by the spring element 136 will cause the locking member 132 to extend or protrude from the upper surface of the removable module 130. However, as shown in FIG. 3C, because the locking member 132 is at least partially inserted into the channel 144, the locking member 132 is prevented from protruding, and the locking member 132 remains substantially with the upper surface of the removable module 130 On the flush.

Therefore, referring to FIG. 3C, as the removable module 130 continues to slide or move in the channel 144 of the assembly 138, the locking mechanism remains in a compressed state (that is, both the locking member 132 and the ramp member 134 are included in the The body of the removable module 130). The locking mechanism remains in this state until the locking member 132 approaches the recess 142 or other openings in the channel 144.

FIG. 3D illustrates the mating feature of the fully engaged component 138 (in this case, the channel 144) or the removable module 130 inserted into the mating feature. As shown in FIG. 3D, the removable module 130 is positioned so that the locking member 132 is aligned with or close to the recess 142. As also shown in FIG. 3D, the removable module 130 is positioned centrally with respect to the channel 144, and the side of the removable module 130 is flush or substantially flush with one or more side walls of the component 138.

As also shown in FIG. 3D, permitting the locking member 132 to expand, be received, or otherwise engage with the recess 142, this situation locks the removable module 130 in a proper position within the assembly 138. In detail, the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism can be moved from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the locking member 132 is flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the removable module 130 Flush, in the second position, the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism protrudes from the top surface of the removable module 130 and is received in the recess 142. The upward or downward movement of the locking member 132 is facilitated by the spring element 136, which maintains the locking member 132 in the second position, as shown in FIG. 3D. In this creative example, the lock part The engagement between the member 132 and the recess 142 prevents the removable module 130 from moving relative to the channel 144.

In an alternative embodiment, the locking mechanism may include the locking member 132 instead of the ramp member 134. In these embodiments, the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism can be biased by a spring or the like, so that the locking member 132 protrudes from the top surface of the body of the removable module 130. When the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism comes into contact with the channel 144 of the assembly 138, the contact causes the locking member 132 to be retracted or recessed into the removable module 130, so that one or more springs of the locking mechanism or Compression component compression. However, when the locking member 132 approaches the recess 142 of the channel 144, such as described above with respect to FIG. 3D, the locking member 132 is allowed to expand or otherwise move into the recess 142, thereby removing the removable module 130 Locked in channel 144.

The release mechanism 140 can be used to disengage the removable module 130 from the channel 144 or release the removable module 130 from the channel 144. In some cases, in order to unlock the removable module 130, the release mechanism 140 may be placed on the component 138 (eg, housing) of the consumer product and configured to drive the locking member 132 away from the recess 142. When the release mechanism 140 is actuated, the plunger of the release mechanism 140 moves the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism from the second position to the first position, or substantially returns to the first position. Once the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism is removed from the recess 142, the removable module 130 can be moved in the channel 144 of the assembly 138, or completely removed from the channel 144 of the assembly 138.

3E illustrates the removable module 130 removed from the housing or component 138 of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As described above, once the locking member 132 is driven away or otherwise removed from the recess 142, the removable module 130 can slide or move in the channel 144 of the assembly 138. For example, as shown in FIG. 3E, the removable module 130 can move in a direction away from an opening in the channel 144 and move out from a second opening in the channel 144. In this situation, the removable module 130 can slide out from the channel 144, so that the removable module 130 and the component 138 are completely disengaged.

Although the actuation of the release mechanism 140 is specifically mentioned, other methods may be used to compress the locking member 132. However, this alternative design and any other alternative designs disclosed herein do not affect the utility of the embodiments disclosed herein.

For example, when the locking member 132 is in the recess of the channel 144, a force can be applied to one side of the removable module 130. When a force is applied to the removable module 130, the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism can contact the side surface of the recess 142. As the removable module 130 continues to move in the direction in which the force is applied, the side surface of the recess 142 can further shrink the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism until the locking member 132 moves from the second position to the first position or Essentially return to the first position. Once the locking member 132 of the locking mechanism is removed from the recess 142, the removable module 130 can move or slide in the channel 144, and can be disengaged or separated from the assembly 138.

Figure 4A illustrates an example consumer product 150 that can be used with the attachment system of the present creation. The consumer product 150 may, for example, correspond to the consumer product shown in the previous figures.

The attachment system of the consumer product 150 and more specifically the consumer product 150 may include a base unit (shown as a housing 154 in FIG. 4A) and one or more attachments that can be removably coupled to the housing 154 Connection unit (shown as a removable module 152 in FIG. 4A). The housing 154 may, for example, include a coupling node (shown as a channel 156 in FIG. 4A) that mechanically engages a corresponding coupling node on the removable module 152. The channel 156 can vary widely. The channel 156 on the housing 154 includes an opening, and the coupling node on the removable module 152 includes a lug fitted in the opening. The opening can be configured in many different shapes and orientations. In addition, the opening is configured to receive the lug in a removable manner.

More specifically and as shown in FIG. 4A, the removable module 152 of the attachment system is configured to slide relative to the housing 154 of the consumer product 150. Once inserted, the removable module 152 can continue to slide or move within the housing 154 of the consumer product 150. When the removable module 152 reaches a certain point in the housing 154, the removable module 152 can also be locked in an appropriate position in the housing 154 of the consumer product 150. Although the removable module 152 can be Locked in the proper position in the housing 154, but the release mechanism on the housing 154 (for example, the release mechanism 174 of FIG. 4D) or the actuation of the actuator releases the removable module 152. This situation makes it possible to remove the removable module 152. The changeable module 152 is removed from the housing 154. The release mechanism 174 (FIG. 4D) can be arranged on the bottom side of the housing 154 (172 in FIG. 4D ). In other embodiments, the release mechanism 174 (FIG. 4D) may be placed or positioned on the top side of the housing 154. In addition, the release mechanism 174 can be placed at various positions on the bottom side and/or the top side of the housing 154.

Although a single removable module 152 is discussed, a plurality of removable modules 152 may be coupled to the consumer product 150. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the removable module 152 can be coupled to the first side of the consumer product 150, and the second removable module 152 can be coupled to the consumer product 150 The second side.

When multiple removable modules 152 are used, the consumer product 150 may have corresponding channels 156 or other such coupling nodes on both sides of the housing 154. Therefore, the channel 156 on the first side of the housing 154 can receive a removable module 152, and the channel 156 on the second side of the housing 154 can receive another removable module 152.

Each removable module 152 may have a specific shape, size, or orientation based on the channel 156 into which the removable module 152 will be inserted. For example, the first removable module 152 may have a circular shape and/or a first size corresponding to the shape and/or size of the channel 156 on the first side surface of the housing 154. Likewise, the second removable module 152 may have a second size and/or shape corresponding to the shape and/or size of the channel 156 on the second side surface of the housing 154. In other embodiments, each removable module 152 may have the same shape and/or size, and thus may be interchangeable with each other.

In addition to the foregoing, the first removable module 152 can be coupled to the consumer product 150, and the second removable module 152 can be detached or removed from the consumer product 150. Similarly, the second removable module 152 can be coupled to the consumer product 150, and the first removable module 152 can be removed from the consumer product 150. The first removable module 152 can be configured to store a first accessory, object, or object or a first type of accessory, object, or object. Similarly, the second can The removable module 152 may be configured to receive accessories, objects, or objects similar to or different from the accessories, objects, or objects coupled to the first removable module 152.

As discussed briefly above, one or more accessories 158, objects, or articles may be coupled to each removable module 152. More specifically, one or more of the removable modules 152 can be used to removably couple each accessory 158 to the consumer product 150.

In another example, each accessory 158 coupled to the respective removable module 152 may be a different structure or a different part of the same structure. Therefore, one end of the accessory 158 can be removably coupled to the removable module 152, and the second end of the accessory 158 can be coupled to another accessory 158 or to a user. The accessory 158 can be integrated with the removable module 152. Therefore, the accessory 158 may not be removed from the removable module 152.

The consumer product 150 can vary widely. For example, the consumer product 150 may be a wearable consumer product 150. Additionally or alternatively, the consumer product 150 may be an electronic device. The consumer product 150 may be a portable computing device. Examples include cellular phones, smart phones, tablets, laptops, timing devices, computerized glasses and other wearable devices, navigation devices, sports devices, accessory devices, health monitoring devices, medical devices, wristbands, bracelets , Jewelry and/or the like.

In an example, the consumer product 150 may be a wearable multifunctional electronic device. The electronic device may have various functions and/or capabilities described above (for example, calculation, communication, timing or time display, health monitoring, health tracking, and/or health output functionality/capabilities, etc.). In one example, the consumer product 150 is a multifunctional device worn on the wrist and may include various components and/or modules, such as the components and modules shown and described below with respect to FIG. 21. In another example, the consumer product 150 can serve as an extension of another electronic device (or vice versa). For example, if the consumer product 150 is configured as a device to be worn on the wrist, it can act as a watch-like device, which can be carried by the user (for example, placed in a pocket) or otherwise combined with The user's associated phone interaction.

The consumer product 150 may include a housing 154. Shell 154 is used to surround consumer products The peripheral area of 150 and the internal components of the consumer product 150 are supported in its assembly position. That is, the housing 154 can enclose and support various internal components (including, for example, integrated circuit chips, processors, memory devices, and other circuit systems) to provide computing and functional operations for the consumer product 150. The housing 154 can also help define the shape or form of the consumer product 150. That is, the outline of the housing 154 can reflect the outward physical appearance of the consumer product 150. Therefore, it can include various decorative and mechanical features that improve the aesthetic appearance and tactile feel of the device. The shell 154 can be formed as a single piece, which can enhance the structural rigidity, water impermeability and manufacturability of the shell 154.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the housing 154 may have a linear shape. However, the housing 154 can be configured in various shapes. The housing 154 may also have a substantially flat or flat top surface and a substantially flat or flat bottom surface on which the display 160 can be positioned. Although the top surface of the housing 154 and the bottom surface of the housing 154 may be substantially planar, the transition between the top surface of the housing 154 and one or more side walls of the housing may be curved. In other words, the transition from the top surface of the housing to one or more side walls (for example, including the side surface for the positioning channel 156) may be rounded so that a smooth transition exists between the top surface and the side surface of the housing 154. Similarly, the transition from the bottom surface of the housing 154 to one or more sidewalls of the housing 154 may have a similar rounded shape and transition.

The housing 154 (sometimes referred to as a housing or a casing) may be formed of plastic, glass, ceramic, fiber composite material, metal (for example, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, magnesium), other suitable materials, or a combination of these materials. In addition, the surface of the housing 154 can be formed of any suitable material, including aluminum, steel, gold, silver and other metals, metal alloys, ceramics, wood, plastics, various types of glass, combinations thereof, and the like.

The consumer product 150 may include various components that can be placed outside the housing 154, placed inside the housing 154, placed through the housing 154, placed inside the housing 154, and so on. For example, the housing 154 may include cavities for retaining components inside and holes or windows for providing access to various internal components. The housing 154 can also be configured to form water-resistant or Waterproof device. For example, the housing 154 may be formed of a single body, and the opening in the body may be configured to cooperate with other components to form a water-resistant or waterproof barrier.

In some embodiments, the consumer product 150 may include one or more I/O systems. For example, the consumer product 150 may include a display 160 configured to output various information about the consumer product 150. The display 160 can also output data from applications and other programs executed by the consumer product 150. For example, the consumer product 150 may provide information about the following: time, user's health, status notification, notification received from externally connected devices or communication devices and/or software running on these devices or message. The consumer product 150 may also provide information about the application or display messages, videos, operation commands, etc. executed on the consumer product in other ways.

The display 160 can also be configured to receive input. The display 160 may be integrated or combined with a touch panel or a touch sensor including a capacitive touch electrode array. In embodiments where the display 160 is configured to receive input, the display 160 may have an input area. The input area may cover the entire display 160 or substantially the entire display 160. In another embodiment, the input area may only cover a part of the display 160. In addition, the display 160 may be a multi-touch display configured to receive and process various contact points received on the display.

The display 160 may include image pixels formed by: light emitting diodes (LED), organic LEDs (OLED), plasma batteries, electronic ink components, liquid crystal display (LCD) components, or other suitable image pixel structures. The shape, size, and size of the display 160 can also vary. For example, the display 160 may be flat or substantially flat. In other embodiments, the display 160 may be concave or convex. The display 160 may be shaped to cover or substantially cover the top portion of the housing 154. Therefore, the display 160 may have a shape similar to the shape of the housing 154. In other embodiments, the shape of the display 160 may be different from the shape and/or size of the housing 154.

The consumer product 150 may also include other input and output mechanisms. For example, the consumer product 150 may include or interface with the following: one or more buttons 162, crowns Section 164, buttons, dials, track pads, microphones, and the like. Each of these input mechanisms may be disposed on the top surface of the housing 154 and/or on one or more side walls of the housing 154. The consumer product 150 may also include one or more speakers, headphone jacks, and the like.

The consumer product 150 can also be configured to provide tactile output, audio output, visual output, or a combination thereof. Regarding haptic output, the consumer product 150 may have one or more haptic actuators configured to provide haptic output. The tactile output provided above and other forms of output can vary based on a variety of factors. Some of these factors include (but are not limited to) how the consumer product 150 is used, which applications are executed, the information output on the display 160, and the like.

For example, if the consumer product 150 is monitoring the health of the user, the first type of tactile output can be provided. Alternatively or in addition, if the consumer product 150 is running a timing application, the second type of tactile output can be provided. In yet another example, if a warning or message is output on the display 160, the warning or message may include tactile output, visual output, and auditory output.

The type, feel, and duration of tactile output, audio output, and/or visual output can also vary. For example, the type, sensation and duration of the tactile output of the consumer product 150 are based on the orientation of the consumer product 150 and/or the location (location or position) of the consumer product 150 (for example, regarding the user, environmental conditions) , Consumer products are external or internal, and the like).

In addition to the foregoing, the strap or other accessory attached to the device (using, for example, an attachment system) can be configured to provide and/or enhance tactile output. For example, a strap or other accessory may have a tactile actuator placed in the inner part of the removable part. In yet another embodiment, the tactile actuator placed in the consumer product 150 can cause the strap or accessory 158 to resonate or amplify the tactile output provided by the tactile actuator.

The consumer product 150 may include connections that enable the consumer product to interface with other devices. Connection system (wired or wireless). These other devices may include laptop computers, mobile phones, tablets, exercise equipment, electronic glasses, and the like.

The consumer product 150 may also include operating components (possibly contained by the housing 154). Such components may include processors, memory, communication systems, antennas, and the like. For example, the consumer product 150 may include a processor coupled to or in communication with the memory. The consumer product 150 may also include one or more communication interfaces, which can provide electronic communication between the communication device and any external communication network, device or platform, such as (but not limited to) wireless interface, Bluetooth interface, proximity Field communication interface, infrared interface, USB interface, Wi-Fi interface, TCP/IP interface, network communication interface, or any conventional communication interface.

The consumer product 150 may also include various sensors. These sensors may include, but are not limited to, the following: biometric sensors, gyroscopes, accelerometers, light sensors, optical sensors, global positioning sensors, etc. These sensors can assist or otherwise provide functionality to the consumer product 150. In addition, the readings from these sensors can be analyzed by the consumer product 150 and/or can be transmitted to accompanying devices or other products.

As also shown in FIG. 4A, the consumer product 150 may include channels 156, grooves, or other such openings, which are configured to receive a removable module 152 for a wristband or attachment accessory 158, such as Interchangeable lugs. Although the wristband is depicted as an example attachment accessory 158, other types of attachment accessories, accessories, components, and the like can be removably attached to the housing 154 of the consumer product 150 using an attachment system. In some implementations, the first accessory includes a long strap or strap that is configured to attach the device to the user by looping the strap strap through the second accessory, which includes a loop or buckle .

The accessory 158 may be interchangeable with respect to the removable module 152. Therefore, the accessory 158, the removable module 152, and the housing 154 of the consumer product 150 (or the consumer product 150 itself) and various combinations thereof can include an ecosystem, whereby each component of the ecosystem can be interchanged with each other. For example, a removable module 152 can be used for various accessories. In another embodiment, various removable modules can be used for a single consumer product 150.

In another embodiment, a single accessory 158 and/or a single removable module 152 can be used in various consumer products 150. In still other embodiments, the accessory 158 may not be removed from the removable module 152. In these cases, the removable module 152 and the accessory combination can be interchanged with different removable modules 152. In the case of the watch band accessory 158, the removable module 152 may include a lug having an end configured to be attached to the housing 154 of the consumer product 150 and configured to be attached To the other end of the strap of the attachment 158.

The components of the accessory 158 (eg, strap or strap) may be coupled to the removable module 152 using snaps or other attachment members such as magnets, buckles, and the like. Various attachment members may also be used to fasten, couple, or otherwise attach the components of the accessory 158 to the removable module 152. Examples of such attachment members include, but are not limited to, snaps, pins, magnets, buckles, and other such attachment members. In other embodiments, one or more components of the accessory 158 can be fastened to the removable module 152 by the following operations: overmolding the material, weaving the material into the removable module 152, Or integrate the material of the component and the material of the removable module 152 in other ways.

The strap (or accessory 158) may include a first strap strap 166 attached to the first removable module 152 of the consumer product 150, and a second removable module attached to the consumer product 150 The second strap 168 of the module 152. In some embodiments, the free ends of the first strap strap 166 and the second strap strap 168 can be configured to be releasably fastened to each other using a buckle 170 or other attachment mechanism to form a loop . This loop can then be used to attach the consumer product 150 to the user's wrist.

The first strap 166 and the second strap 168 may be formed of various materials suitable for various applications. For example, the first strap strap 166 and the second strap strap 168 may be formed of leather, plastic, woven fabric, metal chain links, metal mesh materials, and the like. The materials and construction of the first strap 166 and the second strap 168 may depend on the application.

For example, the first strap strap 166 and the second strap strap 168 may be configured to be exposed to the impact force and moisture normally associated with outdoor activities in the shape of a woven fabric material. become. In another example, the first strap strap 166 and the second strap strap 168 may be formed of a metal mesh material that can be configured to have a finely decorated surface and structure that may be more suitable for professional or social activities.

The buckle 170 may also be configured for specific applications and/or selected based on the specific style of the strip. For example, if the first strap strap 166 and the second strap strap 168 are formed of a metal mesh material, the buckle 170 may include a magnetic buckle mechanism.

The attachment 158 may be a single attachment. Thus, the distal end of the accessory 158 can be configured to be coupled to the first removable module 152, and the proximal end of the accessory can be configured to be coupled to the second removable module 152. In yet another example, the accessory 158 may be directly coupled to each of the following or may be manufactured to include the following: the removable module 152, or various components of the removable module. That is, the accessory 158 may be designed to include features configured to slide within the housing 154 of the consumer product 150 in a similar manner to the removable module described above.

For example, the proximal end and/or the distal end of the accessory 158 may have a locking mechanism that functions to secure the end of the accessory 158 in the channel 156 of the housing 154. In addition, the end of the attachment 158 may include one or more protrusions or friction pads, such as those described herein. In addition, the proximal end and/or the distal end of the accessory can be made of various materials, including leather, silicon, metal links, or nets.

FIG. 4C illustrates a side view of the consumer product 150 of FIG. 4A according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The housing 154 may have a three-dimensional shape that is substantially straight. Although a linear shape is shown and described, the housing 154 may be rounded, square, oval, triangular, and have other such shapes.

In the example depicted in FIG. 4A, the housing 154 may be described as having two ends (a first end and a second end opposite to the first end), and a first side and a first side opposite to the first side. The second side surface is continuous with the ends. In this example, the first end and the second end and the first side and the second side have a three-dimensional shape that is curved outward.

The top and bottom sides of the housing 154 may be substantially flat or flat. In other implementations Among them, one or both of the top side and the bottom side may be rounded. The display 160 can be positioned on the top side of the housing 154. When the display 160 terminates, the housing 154 may transition from a flat or flat surface to one or more rounded edges. The rounded edges provide a smooth transition from the top side of the housing 154 to the side wall of the housing 154 and from the side wall of the housing 154 to the bottom side of the housing 154. The rounded edges of the housing 154 can make the side profile of the housing have a substantially rhombus shape, but other shapes are expected.

In the example shown in Figure 4C, the channel 156 is formed in the first end. Similarly, a second channel 156 is formed in the second end. In this creative example, the channel 156 has openings at the interface between the first and second sides and the first and second ends. As also shown in FIG. 4C, the channel 156 of the housing 154 may be disposed on one or more side walls of the housing 154. Therefore, when the rounded edge transitions from the top surface to the bottom surface of the housing 154, the rounded edge can transition into the channel 156 itself. That is, the channel 156 can be directly engraved into the solid part of the housing 154. Therefore, the channel 156 can be positioned below the display 160 of the consumer product 150.

The length and shape of the channel 156 can follow the shape and length of the housing 154. Therefore, if the housing 154 is rounded or curved, the channel and the one or more removable modules 152 can also be rounded or curved.

As shown below with respect to FIG. 10A, the channel may also have an inwardly curved three-dimensional shape with an undercut. For example, the channel 156 may have a greater width than the opening on the proximal and/or distal end of the channel 156. The upper part of the housing 154 can hang over the lower part of the housing 154 at the opening of the passage 156. In the example depicted in Figure 4C, the channel 156 is cut into the solid portion of the housing 154 so that the channel 156 forms a continuous internal shape.

The channel 156 may be formed at an angle relative to the center line of the housing 154. The channel 156 can also be located below the centerline of the housing 154. In some embodiments, the channel 156 is angled upward and inward within the outline of the housing 154 so that the channel 156 intersects the vertical centerline of the housing 154. The channel 156 may be at an angle of about 5 degrees or greater with respect to the center line of the housing 154.

The channel 156 can be configured in a variety of shapes. For example, the channel 156 may be rounded, such as shown in Figure 4C. In other embodiments, the channel 156 may be linear or have other shapes, such as described above with respect to FIGS. 2A to 2F.

The channel 156 may also have one opening at the proximal end and another opening at the distal end. As discussed above, the channels 156 may extend along the sides of the housing 154 to connect the openings at each end. In addition, the channel 156 can be shaped so that the lateral opening of the channel 156 and the proximal and distal ends of the channel 156 follow the contour of the housing. Thus, the opening may be inclined or otherwise curved based on the shape and size of the housing 154. The opening may be located on a curved surface and/or located inward of the outer dimension of the consumer product 150.

The channel 156 can be shaped so that the openings at the proximal and distal ends are slightly tapered. As the channel 156 progresses toward the center of the channel 156, the depth of the channel increases. In other words, near the open end of the channel 156, the channel 156 may have a shallow depth, and as the channel 156 progresses within the housing 154, the depth of the channel increases. Because each opening can be configured to receive an accessory such as the one described above (for example, accessory 158) and/or a removable module 152, the configuration of the channel 156 in this way can assist in making The removable module 152 or accessory 158 can enter the channel 156.

In addition to the openings at the proximal and distal ends of the channel 156, a slot may also extend between the proximal and distal ends of the channel 156. The slot may provide space for the article to pass through the housing 154, which situation enables the article to be attached to the removable module 152 contained in the channel 156 or otherwise secured to the housing 154.

The slot may gradually become smaller or have a size narrower than the size of the opening at each of the ends. That is, the proximal and distal ends of the channel 156 may have a first size, and the slots of the channel 156 have a second size. In some embodiments, the second size is smaller than the first size. This configuration can help prevent the accessory 158 and/or the removable module 152 contained in the channel 156 from moving vertically.

For example, due to the narrow size of the slot, the accessory 158 or the removable type can be prohibited The module 152 is pulled out from the front of the slot (due to the pulling motion or force that may be applied to the removable module 152 or the accessory 158). The slots of the housing 154 may also be made of hard materials, which prevents or helps prevent the housing 154 from bending, expanding, and so on.

FIG. 4D illustrates a bottom view of the consumer product 150 of FIG. 4A according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The bottom side 172 of the housing 154 may be flat or substantially flat, such as described above. In other embodiments, the bottom side 172 of the housing 154 or a portion of the bottom side 172 of the housing 154 may be rounded. In addition, the bottom side 172 of the housing 154 may include a release mechanism 174. The release mechanism 174 is aligned with the recess in the channel 156. As discussed above, the release mechanism 174 can be used to release the locking mechanism of the removable module 152 from the channel 156.

Although FIG. 4D shows that the release mechanism 174 is centrally located near the side of the housing 154, the release mechanism 174 can be located anywhere on the bottom side 172 of the housing 154. In addition, each side of the housing 154 may include a single release mechanism 174 or multiple release mechanisms 174. In addition, although the release mechanism 174 is shown on the bottom side 172 of the consumer product 150, the release mechanism 174 may be positioned on the sidewall of the housing 154 and/or the top side of the consumer product 150.

As also shown in FIG. 4D, when the removable module 152 is inserted into the channel 156, the removable module 152 is included in the channel 156. When the removable module 152 is contained in the channel 156, the removable module 152 can completely or otherwise fill the groove in the periphery of the housing 154 created by the channel 156. As shown in FIG. 4D, one or more arms may extend from channel 156. The arms can be used to fasten accessory 158 (Figure 4A) to housing 154, such as described above.

5A to 6C illustrate an example attachment system 200 including a combination of a removable module 205 and a housing 300 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The removable module 205 may, for example, correspond to the removable module shown and described in relation to any of the foregoing figures. For example, the removable module 205 and housing 300 may be similar to the removable module and housing shown and described in relation to FIGS. 4A to 4D.

As shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, the removable module 205 of the attachment system 200 can be It can be removably coupled to a component or housing 300 of a consumer product. More specifically, FIGS. 5A to 6C illustrate the removable module 205 during various stages of insertion into the housing 300 of the consumer product.

Figure 5A illustrates an example attachment system 200 that includes a removable module 205 and an example housing 300 of a consumer product or other such components. The removable module 205 is configured as a completely separate unit, which can be integrally removed from the housing 300 of the consumer product or integrated with the housing 300 of the consumer product. The removable module 205 may have a rounded and/or gradually smaller body 210 in which one or more arms 213 extend from the body.

The outer wall of the arm 213 may be smooth and chamfered, such as shown. More specifically, the arm 213 may start as a part of the body 210 and extend beyond the body 210. The shape of the arm 213 can be changed based on the shape of the channel 315 and the shape of the housing 300. In addition, when the removable module 205 is entirely placed in the housing 300, such as shown in FIG. 5C, the arm 213 is configured to be flush or substantially flush with at least a portion of the outer surface 310 of the housing 300 .

As also shown in FIG. 5A, the housing 300 may include a release mechanism including a spring biased button portion 330 that interacts with one or more components of the removable module 205. For example, the button portion 330 is configured to be actuated to release the removable module 205 from the channel 315 of the housing 300 when the removable module 205 is locked in place in the housing 300. A more detailed description of an example release mechanism is provided below with respect to FIGS. 10A-12B.

FIG. 5B illustrates the removable module 205 partially inserted into the channel 315 of the housing 300. As shown in FIG. 5B, the removable module 205 is assembled in the channel 315 and slides relative to the channel 315. Although not shown in FIG. 5B, once the body 210 of the removable module 205 is inserted into the channel 315, the locking mechanism of the removable module 205 is compressed, such as shown and described with reference to FIG. 13B.

Once the body 210 of the removable module 205 is fully inserted into the channel 315, such as shown in FIG. 5C, the locking mechanism or part of the locking mechanism bites into the recess in the channel. In this case, the removable module 205 is locked in the proper position in the channel 315 in this case. The interaction between the locking mechanism and the recess is shown and described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 13C to 15. When the removable module 205 is locked in the channel 315, the activation of the button portion 330 of the release mechanism on the outer surface 310 of the housing 300 releases the removable module 205, thereby permitting the removable module 205 moves in the channel 315.

As also shown in FIG. 5C, when the removable module 205 of the attachment system 200 is locked in the channel 315, the shape of the outer surface of the arm 213 conforms to the outer shape of the housing 300. Therefore, if the side surface of the housing is rounded, the outer surface of the arm 213 can also be rounded, so that the removable module 205 and the housing 300 look like a single single piece.

6A-6C illustrate various views of an attachment system 200 including a removable module 205 and an example housing 300 of a consumer product. The removable module 205 may be similar to the removable module shown and described above. Therefore, the removable module 205 can be inserted into the housing 300 of the electronic device or otherwise coupled to the consumer product. In addition, the removable module 205 can be removably connected to straps, straps, docking members, brackets, display systems, and the like.

Various components and features of the removable module 205 will be discussed in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 7A to 9C. Thus, similar reference numbers may be used across the figures to show similar components. In addition, various cross-sectional views represented by cross-section AA and cross-section BB are discussed in more detail below. In addition, various cross-sectional views represented by the cross-section CC and the cross-section DD shown in FIG. 6A are discussed in more detail below.

6A illustrates a top view of the removable module 205 that does not snap into the housing 300 or is attached to the housing 300, and FIG. 6B illustrates a top view of the removable module 205 partially inserted into the channel 315 of the housing 300, and FIG. 6C illustrates a top view of the removable module 205 fully inserted into the channel 315 of the housing 300. FIG. As shown in the assembly sequence of FIGS. 6A to 6C, the removable module 205 is configured to slidably engage with the channel 315 of the housing 300 to connect the two components. Other components such as straps or straps can also be attached to the removable module 205. These components are omitted from these figures for clarity.

The locking member 220 of the locking mechanism arranged on the main body 210 can interact with the channel 315. As will be shown and described below with respect to FIGS. 13A and 13B, the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism can be biased by a spring to be flush with the body 210 of the removable module 205. Therefore, the locking member 220 can be received in the channel 315 with little or no resistance. However, when the body 210 of the removable module 205 is completely received in the channel 315, the locking member 220 can be expanded into the recess in the channel 315, such as shown and described below with respect to FIGS. 13C and 14A.

The removable module 205 may also include one or more friction pads 260. The friction pads can be positioned at various positions on the body 210 of the removable module 205 and used to increase friction, restrict movement, and maintain the distance between the removable module 205 in the channel 315.

The removable module 205 may have an outline shape corresponding to at least a part of the outline shape of the housing 300. In detail, as shown in FIG. 6C, the width of the channel 315 may be substantially equivalent to the width of the body 210 of the removable module 205. When the removable module 205 is fully inserted, as shown in FIG. 6C, at least a portion of the outer surface of the body 210 is flush or substantially flush with the outer surface 310 of the housing 300.

In this creative embodiment, the contour of the outer surface of the body 210 corresponds to the contour of the outer surface 310 of the housing, but this is not required. For example, in some implementations, the body of the removable module may have a shape corresponding to the channel 315 of the housing 300, and the other part of the removable module 205 (for example, one or more arms 213) Has a non-conforming shape. Also, as shown, the arm 213 of the removable module 205 can extend from the housing 300 in a direction perpendicular to the length of the channel 315.

The removable module 205 may include an arm 213 for coupling the removable module 205 with another component or accessory. The occlusal feature 265 is formed in the surface of the respective arm 213. The occlusal feature 265 can be a recess that receives a pin, a post, or similar protruding feature of the mating part. Mating parts may include straps or other sets attached to the removable module 205 using the occlusal feature 265 Pieces.

In an alternative embodiment, the arm 213 of the removable module 205 may be partially or fully received in the channel 315 of the housing 300. In another embodiment, the body 210 and the arm 213 may extend from the channel 315 or protrude from the channel 315 in other ways. As shown in the figures, when the removable modules 205 are all placed in the housing 300, such as shown in FIG. 6C, the arm 213 is configured to be flush with respect to one or more of the outer walls of the housing 300 Or substantially flush. The actuation of the button portion 330 on the housing 300 enables the removable module 205 to be released from the channel 315, such as described below.

7A to 9C illustrate various views and components of the removable module 205 of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The removable module 205 shown and described with respect to FIGS. 7A to 9C may be similar to the removable module of the attachment system shown and described above. In addition, specific sizes, shapes, and orientations of the removable module 205 and various components of the removable module 205 are described below. However, the disclosed size, shape, and orientation of the removable module 205 and its associated components are not limiting and are used as examples. Alternative shapes, sizes, and orientations do not affect the utility of the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, similar sizes, shapes, and orientations of the removable module 205 and its associated components described below with respect to FIGS. 7A to 9C can be used in various embodiments of the removable module described herein.

FIG. 7A illustrates an exploded perspective view of the removable module 205 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The removable module 205 may include a body 210. The body 210 may be elongated and rounded, such as shown in FIG. 7A. More specifically, the top surface of the body 210 may be rounded and also have rounded sidewalls that transition to a rounded bottom surface. The main body 210 may also have a flat surface disposed between two arms 213 extending from the main body 210. The flat surface may be opposed to the rounded sidewall between the rounded or curved top surface and the rounded or curved bottom surface.

When moving from the front side of the main body 210 (for example, the side where the arm 213 starts) to the back side, the width of the arm 213 and/or the main body 210 can be increased. In other embodiments, when moving from the first part of the body to the second part of the body 210 (for example, from the flat sidewall of the body or the first transition When the wall reaches the rounded side wall or the second transition wall), the height of the body 210 can also be increased.

The arm 213 may have a substantially planar outer surface flared from the first end to the second rounded outer end. The body 210 can be placed between the arms 213 to complete the removable module 205. In another embodiment, the top surface and/or the bottom surface of the body 210 may be flat or substantially flat, and have at least one rounded sidewall that transitions from the flat top surface to the flat bottom surface.

In some embodiments, the length of the body 210 of the removable module 205 is 32.2 mm, the height is 3.2 mm, and the width is 7.2 mm. Although a specific size and shape have been given, the body 210 may have any desired shape and/or size based on, for example, the type or size of the housing of the electronic device that the removable module 205 will be used for.

For example, if the removable module 205 is to be used in the housing of a wearable electronic device, the main body 210 and/or the entire removable module 205 may have a first set of dimensions. Similarly, if the removable module 205 is to be used in the housing of a mobile phone, the main body 210 and/or the entire removable module 205 may have a second set of dimensions. The removable module 205 can have the same size across multiple different products. Thus, the removable module 205 for one product can be interchanged with the attachment system of another product.

In yet another embodiment, the removable module 205 may have different sizes for similar devices of different sizes. For example, the wearable device can be used in a first size and can also be used in a second size. Although the wearable device can have similar functionality, the attachment system and the removable module can be shaped and sized in different ways based on the respective size of the housing of each wearable device.

In addition, the shape and size of the removable module 205 and/or the main body 210 can be changed based on the demographic data of the target audience of the specific electronic device. For example, if the target user of the specific electronic device is a child, the removable module 205 may have a first shape, orientation, and a first set of sizes. Similarly, if the target user of the electronic device is an adult, the removable module 205 can have a second shape, orientation, and a second set of dimensions.

The body 210 of the removable module 205 can be made of a variety of materials, including metal, fabric Materials, ceramics, plastics, rubber or other such polymers. In some embodiments, the removable module 205 may be integrated with accessories or objects such as straps. That is, the removable module 205 and the strip can be formed as a single integrated unit. In other embodiments, the strip can be molded on the removable module 205. In the embodiment where the removable module 205 is integrated with an object or accessory, various components described below can also be integrated with the object or accessory.

Continuing with the strap example, the strap may have one or more friction pads 260 integrated with the strap. Likewise, the strap may have a locking mechanism such as described below. In other embodiments, the strip may have a thickness slightly larger than the size of the channel. Thus, the strap may have to be compressed to enter the channel, but decompressed within the channel to secure the strap within the channel.

Depending on the type of material used to form the body 210 of the removable module 205, the body 210 may include a supporting member or structure disposed in the body 210. For example, if the main body 210 is made of fabric, rubber or plastic, the supporting structure can be placed in the main body 210 to increase the rigidity of the main body 210. The added rigidity of the support structure can help prevent the removable module 205 from being compressed or pulled vertically (eg, pulled out from the front opening of the channel) or otherwise removed from the channel of the housing.

Referring back to FIG. 7A, the body 210 includes a proximal end and a distal end. Although not required, each of the proximal end and the distal end may include an arm 213 that extends beyond the body 210. The arm 213 may follow the shape of the body 210 and have a diamond shape, but other shapes are contemplated. For example, as shown in FIGS. 5A, 6A, and 7A, each of the proximal and distal ends of the body 210 has rounded and/or chamfered arms 213.

The arm 213 may be rounded and/or tapered/chamfered so that the proximal and distal ends of the body 210 of the removable module 205 can be relative to the housing of the electronic device or the removable module One or more sides of the channel into which 205 is to be inserted are flush or substantially flush (such as shown in FIGS. 5C and 6C). The chamfering arm 213 can be chamfered using an angle of about 5 degrees from the back of the arm 213 to the front of the arm 213.

Although a specific angle has been described, the angle of the slope of the arm 213 can be any angle. Other In addition, the arm 213 can be configured in various sizes. However, the size of the arm 213 should not be so large that when the removable module 205 is in the channel or slides in the channel, the force is inappropriately concentrated on any part of the arm 213. Although the rounded chamfered arm 213 is specifically shown and described, the proximal and distal ends of the removable module 205 can be based on the shape of the housing, the shape of the channel in the housing, or the requirements of the removable module 205 It is aesthetically pleasing in any shape or configuration.

The removable module 205 may also include an opening 215 disposed in the main body 210. The opening 215 can be located at any point along the body 210. Therefore, although the opening 215 is shown as being on the central axis of the body 210, the opening 215 can be positioned at any point along the body 210 and in any orientation. In an embodiment, the opening 215 is configured to receive one or more parts of the locking mechanism. In addition, the opening 215 enables each part of the locking mechanism to be slidably moved within the respective part of the opening 215.

Specifically, the opening 215 includes a top part and a bottom part. The top portion and the bottom portion may be separated by outer and inner lugs, such as outer lug 216 and inner lug 217 (FIG. 9A). Both the inner lug and the outer lug can be used to hold various parts of the locking mechanism in proper positions in the opening 215. In addition, the inner lugs and the outer lugs are also used to ensure that the various parts of the locking mechanism are spring-biased in the manner described herein with respect to the removable module 205 and with respect to each other.

Referring back to FIG. 7A, the locking mechanism of the removable module 205 includes a locking member 220 and a slope 235. From top to bottom, the locking member 220 includes: an upper surface; a side wall 225 forming a body extending from the upper surface of the locking member 220 to the bottom portion of the locking member 220; a hole 230 in the body; and an opening in the bottom . In some embodiments, the side wall 225 of the locking member 220 may be formed at an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the upper surface of the locking member 220, but other angles may be used. For example, the locking member 220 may have a slope disposed between the top surface of the locking member 220 and the side wall of the locking member, such as shown in FIG. 16A. The slope can define the transition between the upper surface of the locking member and the body of the locking member. In these embodiments, the chamfered edge may be rounded.

The locking member 220 can be made of plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, metal, ceramic, or any other material or combination of materials. The locking member 220 may be configured in a rounded rectangle or diamond shape and may include a smooth flat surface or a substantially flat top surface. In some embodiments, the lock member 220 may have a length of approximately 5.2 mm, a width of 1.9 mm, and a height of 1.8 mm, but other sizes may be used.

In the embodiment where there is a chamfered edge, the flat or substantially flat top surface of the locking member 220 may be surrounded or substantially surrounded by the chamfered edge. As will be explained below with respect to FIG. 16A, the chamfered edge can be used to facilitate the retraction and insertion of the locking member 220 in the recess of the channel. In these embodiments, the chamfered edge may be angled at approximately 18 degrees with respect to the flat or substantially flat top surface of the locking member 220 and have a length of 0.5 mm, but other angles and lengths are contemplated.

Although the locking member 220 is described as having a flat or substantially planar top surface, the top surface of the locking member 220 may have various configurations. The top surface need not be flat and need not have chamfered edges. Specifically, the top surface can take any of several different forms; it can define a central depression surrounded by flat raised edges; it can define generally flat C-, U-, T-, E- Or S-shape (or other similar shapes); it can be in the form of a group of discontinuous flat or substantially flat surfaces; etc.

In some cases, only a part of the top surface of the locking member 220 is planar or substantially planar, while other parts of the top surface are concave, non-planar, substantially non-planar, and so on. For example, the outer edge of the locking member may be flat or substantially flat, while the other part of the top surface (for example, the inner part) is concave. For example, the substantially planar edge may extend completely or partially around the top surface of the locking member 220. In another example, the top surface of the locking member 220 may have a plane or a substantially plane section extending from the proximal side to the distal side.

Regardless of the configuration of the top surface, at least a portion of the top surface usually engages with the channel until the locking member 220 is received in the channel of the housing and/or the recess in the channel. more detail In other words, as the removable module 205 slides relative to a housing such as described herein, the substantially planar top surface provides uninterrupted travel of the removable module 205. It should be understood that in some embodiments, a portion of the top surface may continuously engage the edge of the channel, or in other embodiments, a portion of the top surface may continuously engage the sidewall of the channel.

Although specific dimensions, angles, and shapes are discussed above, the locking member 220 may have various configurations, shapes, and sizes. In addition to the examples described above, in another implementation, the top surface of the locking member 220 may be rounded or non-planar. In another example, the locking member 220 may have a rectangular shape, a rounded or rectangular shape, and so on. When the chamfered edge of the lock member 220 is present, the chamfered edge of the lock member 220 can be placed at the proximal and distal ends of the lock member 220 (for example, the end of the lock member 220 that contacts or engages with the passage of the housing) superior.

The top surface of the locking member 220 may have a blocking or stepped configuration. Although not shown in FIG. 7A, the shape of the recess in the channel of the housing of the electronic device may have a shape, size, and orientation that enables the locking member 220 to be at least partially received in the recess.

One or more sidewalls of the locking member 220 may also define an aperture 230. The aperture 230 is configured to receive one or more flanges 245 of the ramp 235. For example, one or more flanges 245 of the ramp 235 may be configured to be at least partially received in the locking member 220 and movably secured within the aperture 230. Although the aperture 230 is shown as rounded in FIG. 7A, the aperture 230 may have various shapes and sizes. In addition, the aperture 230 can be positioned at various positions on the locking member 220.

Although the aperture 230 is shown as extending entirely through the side wall of the locking member 220, the aperture 230 may partially extend through the side wall, thereby forming a lug or cliff on the side wall. The lugs can also be configured to receive and fasten the flange 245 of the ramp 235.

The locking mechanism also includes a ramp 235. The slope 235 can be made of plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, or any other material or combination of materials. The slope 235 may have a rounded rectangular shape and have a rounded or substantially non-planar bottom surface. In some embodiments, the length of the slope 235 It can be 5.2mm with a width of 1.5mm and a height of 2.5mm, but other sizes can be used.

When the rounded surface of the slope 235 is in contact with the passage of the housing of the electronic device or is compressed in other ways, the rounded or non-planar bottom surface of the slope 235 enables the slope 235 to be slidably contracted within the opening 215. Similarly, when the slope 235 exits the passage of the housing of the electronic device or is otherwise permitted to expand from the opening 215, the rounded or non-planar bottom surface of the slope 235 enables the slope to expand from the opening 215 in a slidable manner.

Although the slope 235 is shown as having a rounded or non-planar bottom surface, the bottom surface of the slope 235 can be configured in any shape. For example, the bottom surface of the slope 235 may be partially flat or substantially flat with chamfered edges. When the chamfered edge of the slope is in contact with the channel of the housing, the force exerted by the channel on the chamfered edge causes the slope 235 to shrink in the opening 215.

The slope 235 also includes one or more protrusions 240 and one or more flanges 245. The protrusion 240 can extend from the slope 235 and can be used to fasten the first set of spring mechanisms 250 between the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism and the slope 235 of the locking mechanism.

The first set of spring mechanisms 250 can be used to bias the locking member 220 away from the slope 235. Therefore, when the slope 235 moves in a direction toward the locking member 220 (and does not prevent the locking member 220 from expanding), the first set of spring mechanisms 250 causes the locking member 220 to move in a direction away from the slope 235, so that The locking member 220 protrudes from the top surface of the main body 210 of the removable module 205. Therefore, the locking member 220 can be configured to receive at least a part of each spring mechanism of the first set of spring mechanisms 250 and the protrusion 240. Although two spring mechanisms 250 and two protrusions 240 are shown and described, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 may include any number of spring mechanisms. Likewise, the ramp 235 can have any number of protrusions 240.

The ramp 235 may also include one or more flanges 245. As discussed above, one or more flanges 245 may be used to fasten the ramp 235 to the catch member 220. In addition, one or more flanges 245 can be used to fasten the second set of spring mechanisms 255 between the slope 235 and the lower portion of the opening 215. Although two spring mechanisms are shown with respect to the second set of spring mechanisms 255, the slope 235 can be It is used to fasten any number of spring mechanisms in the bottom part of the opening 215 and the slope 235.

The second set of spring mechanisms 255 can be used to bias the slope 235 of the locking mechanism so as to protrude relative to the bottom surface of the removable module 205. In addition, the second set of spring mechanisms 255 also bias the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism so as to be flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the removable module 205. Specifically, the second set of spring mechanisms 255 makes the rounded or non-planar bottom surface of the slope 235 protrude from the removable module 205.

Although the slope 235 is biased by the spring to protrude relative to the removable module 205, when a force is applied to the non-planar bottom surface of the slope 235 (for example, by making the non-planar bottom surface of the slope contact the channel and continue The attachment system is slid in the channel), and the second set of spring mechanisms 255 are contracted. This situation causes the slope 235 to move in the direction toward the locking member 220, so that the non-planar bottom surface of the slope 235 is relative to the removable mold The bottom side of the body 210 of the group 205 is flush or substantially flush. When the slope 235 is removed from the channel of the housing of the electronic device, the second set of spring mechanisms 255 expand, which causes the slope 235 to protrude from the body 210 of the removable module 205 again.

The removable module 205 may also include one or more friction pads 260 extending or protruding from the body 210 of the removable module 205. The friction pad 260 may be positioned at the front edge of the body 210. The friction pad 260 may include one or more alignment pads. When the removable module 205 slides relative to the channel in the housing of the electronic device, the alignment pads serve as a guide for the removable module 205. Introduction. The friction pad 260 may have a domed surface that follows or substantially follows the contour of the body 210 while still protruding from the top surface of the body 210. The friction pad 260 may have a flat or substantially flat top surface. In another embodiment, the friction pad 260 may be part of the locking mechanism or integrated with the locking mechanism. For example, the locking member 220 and/or the slope 235 of the locking mechanism may be a friction pad 260 or have a friction pad positioned on the surface.

The friction pad 260 may have a length of 5.2 mm, a width of 1.5 mm, and a height of 3.4 mm. In some embodiments, the friction pad 260 may extend approximately 0.11 mm above the top surface and/or below the bottom surface of the body 210. In addition, from the center of the friction pad 260 to the opening 215 The distance is 7.2mm. In some embodiments, the distance from the center of the friction pad 260 to the outer edge of the body 210 is 8.9 mm, and in the larger embodiment of the removable module 205, the distance is 10.3 mm.

Although the friction pad 260 is shown in a rounded rectangular or diamond shape, the friction pad 260 may be curved, convex, flat, angled, have protruding edges and a flat interior, or any combination thereof. In addition, although a specific size is given, the friction pad 260 can be configured in various shapes and varying sizes.

The friction pad 260 may be positioned on various parts of the body 210 of the removable module 205, such as shown in FIG. 7A. For example, the top surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205 may include one or more friction pads 260, and the bottom surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205 may also include additional friction pads 260. In these embodiments, the friction pad 260 on the top surface of the body 210 may be aligned with respect to the friction pad 260 on the bottom surface of the body 210.

The friction pad 260 on the top surface of the body 210 may be asymmetrically aligned with respect to the friction pad 260 on the bottom surface of the body 210. In addition, the friction pad 260 can be aligned with the locking member 220 and the ramp 235 of the locking mechanism.

In other implementations, the friction pad may not be aligned with the locking member 220 and/or the ramp 235 of the locking mechanism. In still other implementations, the friction pad 260 may be completely removed from the body 210, or the friction pad 260 may be present on the top or bottom surface of the body 210.

The friction pad 260 may be made of plastic, nylon or other such materials. The material may be a material that acts to increase the friction between the removable module 205 and the passage of the housing of the consumer product.

The body 210 of the removable module 205 may include one or more recesses for placing the friction pad 260. In an alternative embodiment, the friction pad 260 may be directly placed on the top surface, bottom surface and/or side surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205. In addition, the friction pad 260 may be disposed in one or more openings all extending through the axis of the body 210 of the removable module 205.

The friction pad 260 or at least a part of each friction pad 260 extends or protrudes from one or more surfaces of the body 210 of the removable module 205. In these embodiments, the part of the friction pad 260 that extends beyond the surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205 is used to perform the following operations: (1) Add the removable module 205 and the removable module The friction between the channel of the housing of the electronic device to which the group 205 will be placed; and (2) Maintain or substantially maintain one or more surfaces of the removable module 205 and the removable module 205 will be placed The distance between the surface of the channel of the housing of the electronic device to be placed. In the embodiment, because the friction pad 260 helps to maintain the distance between the removable module 205 and the channel, when the removable module 205 is included in the channel, the removable module 205 Any undesirable movement, clicks and/or noise caused by any movement can be reduced.

The removable module 205 may also include one or more occlusal features 265. As shown in FIG. 7A, one or more occlusal features 265 may be placed on the inside of an arm 213 extending from each of the proximal and distal ends of the body 210 of the removable module 205. In addition, it can be assumed that the occlusal feature 265 is parallel to the flat or substantially flat side wall or transition wall of the body 210.

The occlusal feature 265 can be used to fasten straps, straps, or other accessories (not shown) to the removable module 205. For example, the strap or strap may include one or more pins that enable the strap or strap to be removably attached to the removable module 205. Thus, the proximal and distal ends of the pins associated with the straps or straps can be received into individual occlusal features in one or more occlusal features 265.

In some embodiments, the pin used to fasten the strap to the removable module 205 by coupling to the occlusal feature 265 can also be used to perform a hard reset of the electronic device. For example, a pin or other such connection mechanism can be removed from the occlusal feature 265 and inserted into an aperture or communication port that restores the electronic device to its factory default state. In another embodiment, a pin or other such connection mechanism can be used to access a compartment that is removably or slidably coupled to the housing of an electronic device (for example, a tower that holds a SIM card or a memory card or a device). plate).

Although one or more occlusal features 265 are shown and described at specific locations, the occlusal features 265 may be located at various points along the body 210 of the removable module 205. In an alternative embodiment, the rod may extend laterally between the proximal end and the distal arm 213 of the body 210 of the removable module 205. In these embodiments, one or more of the occlusal features 265 may not be needed because the strips or straps can be woven to the rod body and the removable module 205, directly molded or attached to the rod body And the removable module 205, or inserted through the rod and the removable module 205 in other ways.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of the assembled removable module 205 of FIG. 7A according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7B, the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism is placed in the body 210 of the removable module 205, so that the top surface of the locking member 220 is flush or substantially flush with the top side of the body 210 Flush. Similarly, the slope 235 of the locking mechanism is placed in the main body 210 of the removable module 205, so that the bottom surface of the slope 235 is offset and protrudes from or from the bottom surface of the main body 210 of the removable module 205 protrude.

As also shown in FIG. 7B, one or more flanges 245 are configured to be received in the aperture 230 of the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism. One or more flanges 245 can be allowed to move in the aperture 230 in response to the activation of the slope 235 and the movement of the locking member 220.

For example, when the slope 235 is compressed, the flange 245 can move toward the top surface of the locking member 220 within the aperture 230. When the locking member 220 expands outward from the body 210, the flange 245 moves from the top part of the aperture 230 and contacts the bottom part of the aperture 230. When the flange 245 contacts the bottom portion of the aperture 230, the locking member 220 is prohibited from further expanding outward. Similarly, when the slope 235 expands outward, the flange 245 is fastened against the bottom portion of the aperture 230, which makes the locking member 220 deviate relative to the top side of the body 210 of the removable module 205 Flush or substantially flush.

As also shown in FIG. 7B, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 can be coupled to one or more protrusions of the ramp 235. The first group of spring mechanisms 250 can also be fastened between the ramp 235 and the locking member 220. As discussed, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 biases the locking member 220 away from Slope 235. In addition, when the slope 235 is compressed, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 are also compressed. This situation causes the locking member 220 to move from the first position to the second position. In the first position, the plane of the locking member 220 is The substantially planar top surface is flush or substantially flush with the top side of the main body 210 of the removable module 205. In the second position, at least a part of the locking member 220 is from the removable module 205 The top side of the main body 210 protrudes.

The second set of spring mechanisms 255 are fastened between the ramp 235 and the inner lugs of the bottom portion of the opening 215 included in the body 210 of the removable module 205. When one or more of the flanges 245 of the slope is fastened to the locking member 220, when the second set of spring mechanism 255 is biased to the slope 235 to protrude, the flange 245 and the second set of spring mechanism 255 make the lock mechanism The locking member 220 is offset so as to be flush or substantially flush with the top side of the main body 210 of the removable module 205.

FIG. 8A illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of the locking mechanism of the removable module 205 of FIG. 7A according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, FIG. 8A illustrates an exploded cross-sectional view taken from the section BB shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 8A also illustrates the overall shape of the main body 210 of the removable module 205. For example, the body 210 of the removable module 205 may have a flat or substantially flat side wall opposed to a substantially flat side wall, a rounded dome surface, a rounded bottom surface, and a rounded (or substantially non-planar) ) Outer wall. Each side wall can provide a transition between the top surface and the bottom surface. In some embodiments, the rounded outer sidewall may have a larger size than the substantially planar sidewall. In another embodiment, the top surface of the body 210 and/or the bottom surface of the body 210 may be flat or flat, and have rounded outer sidewalls and flat or substantially flat sidewalls, such as those described above.

In some embodiments, as the arm 213 (FIG. 7A) moves toward the rounded sidewall of the body and/or toward the opening 215, the thickness, height, and/or width of the body 210 may increase. That is, the body 210 may be gradually smaller so that when moving from the first side surface (for example, the side from which the arm 213 extends from the body 210) to the second side surface, the thickness of the body 210 increases.

As shown in FIG. 8A, the removable module 205 may include an opening 215 having an upper portion and a bottom portion. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the opening 215 is configured to receive the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism, and the bottom portion of the opening is configured to receive the slope 235 of the locking mechanism.

As also shown in FIG. 8A, the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism may have a flat or substantially flat top surface. In certain embodiments, the locking member 220 includes an aperture 230 configured to movably secure one or more portions of the ramp 235 (eg, one or more flanges 245). More specifically, one or more flanges 245 of the slope 235 can be received in the bottom opening of the locking member 220 and received in the aperture 230 through a snap fit, a press fit, or other methods. Although one or more flanges 245 are fastened in the aperture 230, the one or more flanges 245 can also move in the aperture 230. For example, when the slope 235 is actuated in the direction toward the locking member 220 or in the direction away from the locking member 220, one or more flanges may be allowed to move in the aperture 230 in a given direction or Sliding while still being fastened in the aperture 230.

The ramp 235 of the locking mechanism may have a rounded or non-planar bottom surface. The non-planar bottom surface of the slope 235 can enable the slope 235 to be gradually actuated when the removable module 205 is slid or otherwise inserted into the channel of the housing of the electronic device.

The slope 235 may also include one or more protrusions (not shown in FIG. 8A) and one or more flanges 245. In an embodiment, the protrusion can extend from the slope 235 and can be used to fasten the first set of spring mechanisms 250 between the locking member 220 and the slope 235. Likewise, one or more flanges 245 can be used to fasten the ramp 235 to the locking member 220 and can be configured to receive and fasten the second set of spring mechanisms 255 within the locking mechanism. Specifically, one or more flanges 245 can be used to fasten the second set of spring mechanisms 255 between the ramp 235 and the bottom portion of the opening 215, such as described above.

8B illustrates an assembled side sectional view of the locking mechanism of the removable module 205 of FIG. 7B according to one or more embodiments of the present invention (for example, sectional view BB (FIG. 6A)). As shown in Fig. 8B, the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism is placed in the body of the removable module 205 210 of the opening 215. In these embodiments, the top portion of the opening has enough to enable spring biasing of the top plane or substantially plane surface of the locking member 220 so as to be flush with the top surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205 Or substantially flush depth.

Figure 8B also shows how one or more flanges 245 can be configured to be movably received in the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism. For example, when the locking mechanism is in an extended state, such as shown in FIG. 8B, the flange 245 may be in contact with the bottom side of the aperture 230. However, when the slope 235 is compressed, the flange 245 can be slidably moved in an upward direction toward the top surface of the locking member 220 within the available space provided by the aperture 230. When the locking member 220 subsequently expands outward from the body 210, the flange 245 moves from the top part of the aperture 230 back to the bottom part of the aperture 230. When the flange 245 contacts the bottom portion of the aperture 230, the locking member 220 is prohibited from further expanding outward.

FIG. 8B also illustrates that the first set of spring mechanisms 250 can be fastened between the locking member 220 and the slope 235. In addition, FIG. 8B illustrates that the second set of spring mechanisms 255 can be fastened between the slope 235 of the locking mechanism and the inner lug of the bottom portion of the opening 215. As discussed above, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 bias the locking member 220 away from the ramp 235 of the locking mechanism. In addition, the second set of spring mechanisms 255 biases the locking member 220 so as to be flush or substantially flush with the first side surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205, and further bias the slope 235 relative to The second side surface of the main body 210 of the removable module 205 protrudes.

Although the slope 235 is biased by the spring to protrude relative to the body 210 of the removable module 205, when pressure is applied to the non-planar bottom surface of the slope 235 or the slope 235 is actuated in other ways, the slope 235 is compressed and accommodated To the opening 215. The slope 235 can continue to be accommodated in the main body 210 until the non-planar bottom surface of the slope is substantially accommodated or fully accommodated in the bottom portion of the opening 215.

9A illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the opening 215 in the body 210 of the removable module 205. More specifically, FIG. 9A illustrates a cross-sectional view AA of the opening 215 (FIG. 6A). As discussed, the opening 215 is configured to receive one or more parts of the locking mechanism of the removable module 205 point. Thus, the opening 215 may include a top portion 214 and a bottom portion 219. The top portion 214 may have a first depth and be configured to receive the locking member of the locking mechanism (e.g., the locking member 220 (FIG. 7A)). The depth of the top portion 214 of the opening 215 can be defined by one or more of the outer lug 216 and the inner lug 217. In addition, the depth of the top portion 214 of the opening 215 may be similar or substantially similar to the depth of the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism.

The opening 215 may also include a bottom portion 219 of a ramp (e.g., ramp 235 (FIG. 7A)) configured to receive the locking mechanism. Like the top portion 214 of the opening 215, the bottom portion 219 of the opening 215 may have a depth defined by the outer lug 216 and the inner lug 217. The bottom portion 219 of the opening 215 has a depth sufficient to enable the slope 235 of the locking mechanism to be received in the bottom portion 219. Therefore, when the slope 235 is in a compressed state, the non-planar bottom surface of the slope of the locking mechanism can be flush or substantially flush with respect to the second side surface of the body 210. In some embodiments, the depth of the bottom portion 219 of the opening may be at least twice the depth of the slope, but other depths may be used.

The opening 215 may include one or more through holes 218. One or more through holes 218 may be used to allow one or more protrusions (e.g., protrusion 240 (FIG. 7A)) and one or more spring mechanisms coupled to the protrusions (e.g., first set of spring mechanisms 250 (FIG. 7A)) ) Can be transferred between the bottom part 219 of the opening 215 and the top part 214 of the opening 215. In addition, the opening 215 may have one or more additional through holes (not shown) to enable one or more flanges (for example, the flange 245 (FIG. 7A)) to pass from the bottom portion 219 of the opening 215 to the opening 215. The top portion 214 can be movably received in the aperture (for example, aperture 230 (FIG. 7A)) of the locking member of the locking mechanism.

9B illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the opening 215 in the main body 210 of the removable module 205 with an assembly locking mechanism according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, FIG. 9B illustrates the cross-sectional view AA of FIG. 6A in which the locking mechanism is in a fully expanded state when no external force or compression is applied to the locking mechanism. As previously discussed with respect to FIG. 9A, the opening 215 in the body 210 of the removable module 205 may include a top portion and a bottom portion (e.g. For example, the top part 214 and the bottom part 219 of FIG. 9A).

The top portion may have a first depth defined by one or more of the outer lug 216 and the inner lug 217. In addition, as shown in FIG. 9B, the outer lug 216 is configured to support at least a portion (eg, the outer edge) of the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism. In these embodiments, the outer lug 216 prevents the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism from moving from the top part of the opening 215 to the bottom part of the opening 215. In addition, the outer lugs 216 can be configured to support the locking member 220 so that the top plane or substantially planar surface of the locking member 220 is flush with the first side surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205 or Essentially flush.

The bottom portion of the opening 215 may have a depth defined by the outer lug 216 and the inner lug 217. The inner lugs 217 can be used to support one or more spring mechanisms, such as the second set of spring mechanisms 255. The second set of spring mechanisms 255 can bias the slope 235 so as to protrude relative to the second side surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205. In addition, the second set of spring mechanisms makes it possible to compress the ramp 235 in the bottom side of the opening 215.

The opening 215 also includes one or more through holes 218, which enable the protrusion 240 and the first set of spring mechanisms 250 to pass from the bottom part of the opening 215 to the top part of the opening 215. When the first set of spring mechanisms 250 expand and contract, the through holes 218 can restrict the lateral movement of the first set of spring mechanisms 250. In addition, the opening 215 may have one or more additional through holes (not shown), which enables the flange 245 to pass from the bottom side of the opening 215 to the top surface of the opening 215, and enables the flange 245 to be movably received To the hole 230 in the side wall 225 of the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism.

9C illustrates a front cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism or multiple locking mechanisms of the removable module 205 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, FIG. 9C illustrates the cross-sectional view AA of FIG. 6A in which the locking mechanism is in a fully expanded state when no external force or compression is applied to the locking mechanism. 9C also illustrates the interaction between the first set of spring mechanisms 250 of the locking mechanism with respect to the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism and the slope 235 of the locking mechanism. 9C also illustrates the second set of spring mechanisms 255 of the locking mechanism in relation to the slope 235 and the opening 215 The interaction between the lugs 217.

As previously discussed, the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism can be placed in the opening 215 of the body 210 of the removable module 205. As also discussed, the top portion of the opening 215 has a depth such that the top plane or substantially plane surface of the locking member 220 is flush or substantially flush with the first side surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205. In addition, one or more protrusions 240 can extend from the slope 235 of the locking mechanism and can be received in the locking member 220. The protrusion 240 can also be used to restrict the lateral movement of the first set of spring mechanisms 250.

The first set of spring mechanisms 250 can be configured to compress and expand in the direction of arrow 270. In addition, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 can be configured to bias the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism away from the slope 235 of the locking mechanism. In addition to the foregoing, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 can also cause at least a portion of the locking member 220 to protrude from the opening 215 when the slope 235 of the locking mechanism is compressed, as discussed in more detail below.

As also shown in FIG. 9C, the slope 235 of the locking mechanism can be placed in the bottom portion of the opening 215. The slope 235 can be biased by a spring to protrude relative to the second side surface of the main body 210 so that at least a part of the slope 235 protrudes from the second side surface of the main body 210 of the removable module 205. In these embodiments, the second set of spring mechanisms 255 (for example, pre-loaded springs) can be placed between the inner lug 217 of the opening 215 and the slope 235.

The second set of spring mechanisms 255 can also enable the ramp 235 to be compressed so that the ramp 235 can slide within the bottom portion of the opening 215 when a force is applied to the non-planar bottom side of the ramp 235 or when the ramp 235 is actuated in other ways. When this actuation occurs, and if the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism has a clear path of movement (for example, it is not included in the passage of the housing or not under the recess in the passage of the housing), the first set of spring mechanisms 250 The locking member 220 is moved from the first position to the second position, the first position such as the top plane side of the locking member 220 being flush or substantially flush with the first side surface of the body 210 of the removable module 205 In the flat position, such as shown in FIG. 9C, in the second position, at least a portion of the locking member 220 protrudes from the opening 215. In the embodiment where there is a chamfered edge, the lock The chamfered edge of the component 220 and/or a part of the body of the locking component 220 may protrude from the opening 215. As will be discussed below, the protruding portion of the locking member 220 enables the attachment system to be removably locked in the channel of the housing of the electronic device.

10A to 12B illustrate various views and components of the housing 300 of the electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The housing 300 of the electronic device shown and described with respect to FIGS. 10A-12B can be similar to the housing of the consumer product shown and described above. Additionally, one or more of the components and features shown and described with respect to FIGS. 10A-12B can be similar to the components and features associated with the various housings, components, apertures, and the like shown and described above. In addition, specific dimensions, shapes, and orientations are described below with respect to the housing and the channels in the housing. In addition, the disclosed sizes, shapes, and orientations of the housing, channels, and their associated components and features are not limiting and are used as examples. Similar sizes, shapes, and orientations of the housings, channels and their associated components and features described below can be used with the embodiments described above.

FIG. 10A illustrates a part of a housing 300 of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The housing 300 can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic or any other suitable materials. The housing 300 may include a channel 315 extending from the first side of the housing 300 to the second side of the housing 300, such as shown in FIG. 10A. The channel 315 can be carved into the solid part of the housing 300. Thus, the channel 315 can be located under various components of the electronic device. For example, the channel 315 may be located under the display of the electronic device.

For example, the channel 315 can be directly formed into the housing 300. This configuration can reduce the number of parts and also enhance the structural integrity of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the channel 315 may be standardized and configured to function with a system of interchangeable components. Forming the channel 315 directly into the housing 300 can reduce parts and also promote the structural rigidity of the device.

Although the channel 315 is shown as completely extending from the first side of the housing 300 to the second side of the housing 300, the channel 315 may partially extend from the first side of the housing 300 to the second side of the housing 300. In such embodiments, one end of the channel 315 is inside the housing 300 End at the wall (not shown).

In some embodiments, the channel 315 may have a diameter of 3.3 mm. In addition, the length of the contour curve in the mouth of the channel 315 may have a length of about 8.8 mm. When the removable module 205 (Figure 7A) is inserted into the channel 315, a gap of about 0.045mm can exist around the removable module 205, but due to manufacturing tolerances, the gap can be between 0.015mm and 0.075 Change between mm. As discussed above, one or more friction pads 260 (FIG. 7A) can be used to maintain that spacing.

The channel 315 may also have at least partially rounded side walls. In addition, the channel 315 may have flat or substantially flat side walls. In addition, the channel 315 may be disposed at an angle of about 5 degrees relative to the housing 300, such as shown in FIGS. 10B and 11A. The channel 315 may be located below the central axis of the housing, but other locations are contemplated. Although the specific shape, angle, and size of the channel 315 are specifically discussed, the channel 315 can be configured in any desired shape with various sizes and orientations.

The housing 300 may also include an opening 320 disposed on the outer surface 310. In some embodiments, the opening 320 is used to receive one or more parts of the release mechanism. Specifically, the opening 320 is configured to receive the button portion 330 of the release mechanism and one or more spring mechanisms 340 of the release mechanism. The spring mechanism 340 can be fastened between the button portion 330 and the lug of the opening 320. The spring mechanism 340 can be used to offset the flat or substantially flat top surface of the button portion 330 of the release mechanism so as to be flush or substantially flush with the outer surface 310 of the housing 300.

In some embodiments, the button portion 330 of the release mechanism is made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic or any other suitable material. As discussed, the button portion 330 of the release mechanism may have a rounded or angled top surface that is configured to be flush or substantially flush with the outer surface 310 of the housing 300 when the button portion 330 is placed in the opening 320 On the flush. In alternative embodiments, the button portion 330 may have a flat or substantially flat top surface.

The button part 330 may be configured in a substantially rounded rectangular shape. In some embodiments, the button portion 330 may have a length of 7.5mm, a width of 1.6mm, and a height of 2.2 mm. Although specific sizes are discussed, the button portion 330 may have various sizes and shapes. The button portion 330 of the release mechanism may also include one or more receiving slots 335 configured to receive one or more flanges 350 of the plunger 345 of the release mechanism.

The plunger 345 of the release mechanism can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic or any other suitable material. Additionally, the plunger 345 may have a flat or substantially flat bottom surface, such as shown in FIG. 10A. In other implementations, the bottom surface may be concave or convex. According to one or more embodiments, the plunger 345 may have a length of 4.8 mm, a width of 1.6 mm, and a height of 2.0 mm, but other sizes and shapes may be used.

The bottom surface of the plunger 345 can be used to actuate at least a part of the locking mechanism, such as the locking member such as the locking mechanism described above. The plunger 345 may also include one or more flanges 350 that are configured to be received and secured in one or more of the receiving slots 335 of the button portion 330 of the release mechanism.

The housing 300 also includes a recess 325 disposed in the channel 315 of the housing 300. The recess 325 can be positioned at any point within the channel 315. For example, the recess 325 may be located near one of the openings of the channel 315. In an embodiment, a plurality of recesses 325 may be disposed in the channel 315. In yet another embodiment, the recess 325 may not be disposed in the channel 315 because the channel 315 may have other fastening members such as those described later herein.

The recess 325 may be positioned below the opening 320 and form part of the opening 320. Therefore, one or more flanges 350 of the plunger 345 can extend from the plunger 345 through the recess 325 to the opening 320 and be fastened in the respective receiving slots 335 of the button portion 330. Because the plunger 345 is coupled to the button part 330, the actuation of the button part 330 causes the plunger 345 to move in the recess 325. When the plunger 345 moves in the recess 325 in response to the activation of the button portion 330 of the release mechanism (for example, from the first position in the recess 325 to the second position in the recess 325), the plunger 345 is configured to A portion of the locking mechanism (e.g., the catch member) is driven away from the recess 325 or otherwise removed from the recess 325.

Although not shown in Figure 10A, the channel 315 may also include Plugs or other such mechanisms are connected to the connector slots of the electronic device. The cable can be used, for example, to charge the battery pack of the device, transfer data to and from the storage device, perform maintenance procedures, restore the default and/or stored settings on the electronic device, and so on. The connector slot can be positioned close to the recess 325 or can be aligned with the recess 325. In another embodiment, the connector slot can be positioned anywhere within the channel 315 or other part of the housing 300.

FIG. 10B illustrates the assembly release mechanism included in the housing 300 of the electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As discussed above, the release mechanism may include a button portion 330 and a plunger 345. As shown in FIG. 10B, the button part 330 can be received in the opening 320 of the housing 300. Similarly, the plunger 345 can be received in the recess 325 disposed in the channel 315 of the housing 300.

One or more spring mechanisms 340 are used to spring bias the flat top surface of the button portion 330 so as to be flush or substantially flush with respect to the outer surface 310 of the housing 300. The plunger 345 may be coupled to the button portion 330 using one or more flanges 350. That is, one or more flanges are received in the respective receiving slots 335 defined by the button part 330.

The plunger 345 is held within the recess 325 at the uppermost portion of the recess 325 by virtue of its coupling to the button portion 330, such as shown in FIG. 10B. Such positioning enables the recess 325 to receive a part of the locking mechanism, such as described above. When a part of the locking mechanism is received in the recess 325, the actuation of the button portion 330 causes the plunger 345 to move in the recess 325 from the first position to the second position (for example, the flat or substantially flat bottom surface of the plunger 345) Relative to the channel 315 flush or substantially flush position). The movement of the plunger 345 from the first position to the second position drives a portion of the locking mechanism away from the recess 325 and further causes the locking mechanism to compress and/or enter a compressed state.

FIG. 11A illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of the release mechanism of the housing 300 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, FIG. 11A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the housing 300 taken from the cross-section CC of FIG. 6A.

As shown in FIG. 11A, the housing 300 may include a channel 315 extending from the first side of the housing 300 to the second side of the housing 300. In some embodiments, the channel 315 may have a rounded configuration and may be positioned at an angle relative to the housing, such as described above.

As previously discussed, the housing 300 may also include an opening 320 disposed on the outer surface 310. The opening 320 can be used to receive one or more parts of the release mechanism. More specifically, the opening 320 is configured to receive the button portion 330 of the release mechanism and one or more spring mechanisms 340 of the release mechanism. The spring mechanism 340 can be fastened between the button part 330 of the release mechanism and the lug of the opening 320. In addition, the spring mechanism 340 can bias the top surface of the button portion 330 of the release mechanism to be flush or substantially flush with the outer surface 310 of the housing 300, such as shown in FIG. 11B.

The release mechanism may also include a plunger 345. The plunger 345 may have a flat or substantially flat bottom surface, which may be configured to move from a first position in the recess 325 to a second position in the recess 325 in response to the actuation of the button portion 330. The plunger 345 may also include one or more flanges 350 that are configured to be received and secured in one or more of the receiving slots 335 of the button portion 330 of the release mechanism, such as shown in FIG. 11B.

As discussed above, the housing 300 may also include a recess 325. In certain embodiments, the recess 325 may be positioned below the opening 320 and enable one or more of the flanges 350 of the plunger 345 to extend through the recess 325 into the opening 320. One or more flanges 350 can then be fastened in the respective receiving slots 335 of the button portion 330.

FIG. 11B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the assembly release mechanism included in the housing 300 of the electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention (for example, the cross-sectional view CC of FIG. 6A ). As shown in FIG. 11B, because the plunger 345 is coupled to the button portion 330, the plunger 345 is positioned within the top portion of the recess 325 and is flush or substantially flush with the outer surface 310 of the housing 300. When the plunger 345 is positioned within the top portion of the recess 325, the recess 325 includes a space configured to receive at least a portion of the locking mechanism. Once the part of the locking mechanism is received in the recess, subsequent actuation of the button portion 330 causes the plunger 345 to move in the recess 325 and drive The part of the locking mechanism contained in the recess 325 is one by one. As also shown, when one or more flanges 350 are received in the corresponding receiving slots 335, the spring mechanism 340 is fastened between the plunger 345 and the button portion 330.

FIG. 12A illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the opening 320 of the housing 300 of the electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention (for example, the cross-sectional view DD of FIG. 6A), and FIG. 12B illustrates the method according to one or more embodiments of the present invention A front cross-sectional view of the assembly release mechanism in the opening 320 of the housing 300 of the electronic device (for example, the cross-sectional view DD of FIG. 6A). In some embodiments, the opening 320 is positioned above the recess 325 that is positioned in the channel 315 of the housing 300 or is defined by the channel 315 of the housing 300.

The opening 320 and the recess 325 can be at least partially separated by the outer lug 321. As shown in FIG. 12B, the outer lugs 321 are configured to hold the spring mechanism 340 so that the spring mechanism 340 biases the top surface of the button portion 330 of the release mechanism so as to be flush with the outer surface 310 or top surface of the housing 300 Or substantially flush. In addition, the outer lug 321 is also configured to retain the plunger 345 of the release mechanism in the recess 325.

As also shown in FIG. 12B, it is provided directly between the opening 320 and the recess 325. In some embodiments, the pass-through enables one or more components of the plunger 345 (for example, the flange 350) to extend from the recess 325 into the opening 320 and be coupled to the button portion 330.

13A illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the removable module 205 partially inserted into the channel 315 of the housing 300 of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention (taken at the section AA of FIG. 6A). As shown in FIG. 13A, the removable module 205 may include a locking mechanism having a locking member 220 and a ramp 235. In some embodiments, the locking member 220 is movably coupled to the slope 235 using one or more flanges 245 extending from the slope 235.

According to various embodiments, the locking member 220 can be spring-biased so as to be flush with the body 210 of the attachment system, and the ramp 235 can be spring-biased so as to protrude with respect to the body 210 of the removable module 205. Specifically, the locking mechanism may include coupling to one or more protrusions 240 or a first set of spring mechanisms 250 fastened by one or more protrusions 240, the first set of spring mechanisms biases the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism and the slope 235 of the locking mechanism away from each other. In addition, the second set of spring mechanisms 255 can bias the slope 235 so as to protrude relative to the body 210 of the removable module 205. The second set of spring mechanisms 255 and the flange 245 can also bias the locking member 220 so as to be flush with the body 210 of the removable module 205.

As discussed above, in certain embodiments, the flange 245 is fastened to the lock member 220 via the aperture 230. In these embodiments, the flange 245 may initially be latched to the bottom portion of the aperture 230, such as shown in FIG. 8B. However, as also discussed with respect to FIG. 8B, the flange 245 may be configured to move within the aperture 230. Specifically, when the slope 235 is compressed, the flange 245 can move from the first position in the aperture 230 (in which the overhang of the flange 245 is in contact with the bottom part of the aperture 230) to the second position in the aperture 230 Two positions. Similarly, when the slope 235 is biased by the spring to protrude, the flange 245 can apply a downward force (for example, a force toward the slope 235) to the aperture 230 of the locking member 220, and the downward force holds or causes The locking member 220 is flush or substantially flush with the main body 210 of the removable module 205.

The locking member 220 may have a length substantially equal to or slightly greater than the length of the slope 235. For example, the locking member 220 may have a length of 2.5 mm, and the slope 235 has a length of 2.0 mm. Although specific measurement results are given, the ramp 235 and the locking member 220 can have any length. Although the locking member 220 is configured to be flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the body 210, when the locking member 220 extends from the top surface of the body 210 (as a result of the activation of the slope 235), the lock The buckle member 220 can extend beyond the top surface of the body 210 by about 0.38 mm.

The length of each of the locking member 220 and the ramp 235 can affect the manner in which the removable module 205 is received into the channel 315 of the housing 300. For example, the compression of the slope 235 can cause the locking member 220 to extend or protrude from the body 210 of the removable module 205. However, if the locking member 220 extends from the body 210 of the removable module 205 before the locking member 220 is inserted into the channel 315, the side or outer side of the locking member 220 and the channel 315 will be protruding When the side surface of the shell 300 is in contact, the removable module 205 can be prevented from completely entering the channel 315 (the locking member 220 is not actuated to re-compress the locking member 220).

However, even in embodiments where the locking member 220 can protrude from the housing, by being compressed by the slope 235, or by not being flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the removable module 205, the lock The contact between the buckle member 220 and the channel 315 may cause the buckle member 220 to begin to compress. Specifically, the channel 315 can contact the side wall 225 of the locking member 220 (or contact the chamfered edge of the locking member when there is a chamfered edge), and compress the locking member 220 so that the locking member 220 can be stored in the Inside the main body 210 of the removable module 205. Once the locking member 220 is compressed, the locking member 220 can enter the channel 315.

In addition to the features of the locking member 220 discussed above, the shape and/or length of the ramp 235 may also enable at least a portion of the locking member 220 to be inserted into the channel 315 before the ramp 235 is compressed. Such a configuration can also help prevent the locking member 220 from expanding outward before a portion of the locking member 220 is inserted into the channel 315.

For example, as shown in FIG. 13A, before the slope 235 contacts the outer edge of the channel 315, the length 223 of the locking member 220 is received into the channel 315 of the housing. When the removable module 205 is inserted deeper into the channel 315, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 and the second set of spring mechanisms 255 can compress the slope 235. However, because the length 223 of the locking member 220 is contained in the channel 315 of the housing 300, the locking member 220 cannot be fully expanded. In addition, when the removable module 205 is inserted into the channel 315, the one or more friction pads 260 can maintain the distance between the removable module 205 and the channel 315.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 13B, when the removable module 205 is inserted into the channel 315 of the housing 300 deeper, the channel 315 causes the slope 235 and the second set of spring mechanisms 255 to continue to compress until the bottom of the slope 235 The rounded surface is flush or substantially flush with respect to the main body 210 of the removable module 205. When the ramp 235 is compressed, one or more flanges 245 move within the aperture 230. As also shown in FIG. 13B, the compression of the ramp 235 and the second set of spring mechanisms 255 also causes the first set of spring mechanisms 250 to compress. However, because the lock component 220 Contained in channel 315, so the locking mechanism remains in a compressed state, as shown. In some embodiments, the position of the body 210 of the removable module 205 shown in FIG. 13B may be equivalent to the body of the removable module 205 shown and described above in relation to FIGS. 5B and 6B 210's location.

13C illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of the removable module 205 (for example, taken at the cross-sections AA and DD of FIG. 6A), in which the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism is contained in the recess 325 of the channel 315 of the housing 300 . As shown in FIG. 13C, when the removable module 205 is inserted into the channel 315 of the housing 300 and the locking member 220 is in contact with the recess 325 in the channel 315, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 expand. The expansion of the first set of spring mechanisms 250 causes the locking member 220 to move in the direction of the arrow 400 and the locking member 220 is received in the recess 325, which locks the removable module 205 in position. In some embodiments, the latch member 220 extends into the recess 325 by approximately 0.38 mm, but other distances are contemplated. In some embodiments, the position of the body 210 of the removable module 205 shown in FIG. 13C may be equivalent to the body of the removable module 205 shown and described above in relation to FIGS. 5C and 6C 210's location.

The lock member 220 may include a chamfered edge. In these embodiments, the concave portion 325 may also be chamfered so as to receive the chamfered edge of the lock member 220. When the removable module 205 is locked in a proper position in the channel 315, such a configuration can help eliminate the movement of the removable module 205.

As also shown in FIG. 13C, when the locking member 220 expands into the recess 325, the locking member 220 can expand outwards until it contacts the plunger 345 of the release mechanism. More specifically, the flat or substantially flat top surface of the locking member 220 may be in contact with the flat or substantially flat bottom surface of the plunger 345. Therefore, in response to the actuation of the button portion 330 of the release mechanism, the plunger 345 does not travel before contacting the locking member 220.

14A illustrates a side view of the locking mechanism of the removable module 205 stored in the recess 325 of the channel 315 of the housing 300 of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention Cross-sectional view (for example, taken at cross-sections BB and CC in FIG. 6A). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 14A, when the removable module 205 is inserted into the channel 315 of the housing 300, the removable module 205 can travel in the channel 315 until the locking member 220 is in the channel 315 to the bottom of the recess 325. Once the locking member 220 is below the recess 325 in the channel 315, the first set of spring mechanisms 250 expand, which causes the side wall 225 of the locking member 220 to be received in the channel 315. As also shown in FIG. 14A, the locking member 220 can expand into the recess 325 until it contacts the plunger 345 of the release mechanism.

The removable modules 205 may be equally or substantially equally spaced in the channel 315. As discussed above, one or more friction pads (not shown) can be placed on the removable module 205 and used to maintain the distance between the channel 315 and the removable module 205.

FIG. 14B illustrates the actuation of the release mechanism included in the housing 300 of the consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. Specifically, compared with FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B illustrates the interaction between the release mechanism included in the housing 300 of the consumer product and the locking mechanism included in the removable module 205.

As shown in FIG. 14B, when the button portion 330 of the release mechanism is actuated in the direction of the arrow 410, the button portion 330 travels under the outer surface 310 of the housing 300. More specifically, the spring mechanism 340 in the release mechanism compresses and enables the button part 330 to move within the opening 320 of the housing 300. Because the plunger 345 of the release mechanism is coupled to the button portion 330, the actuation of the button portion 330 also causes the plunger 345 to move from the first position in the recess 325 (for example, the position shown in FIG. 14A) into the recess 325 The second position, such as shown in Figure 14B.

The second position of the plunger 345 may be a position where the flat or substantially flat bottom surface of the plunger 345 is flush or substantially flush with the channel 315. As further shown in FIG. 14B, when the plunger 345 moves from the first position to the second position, the plunger 345 causes the locking member 220 of the locking mechanism to move in the direction of the arrow 420. Specifically, the plunger 345 compresses the first set of spring mechanisms 250 in the locking mechanism. When the first set of spring mechanisms are compressed, the The locking member 220 drives away from the recess 325. Once the locking member 220 is removed from the recess 325, the removable module 205 can move in the channel 315.

FIG. 15 illustrates a front cross-sectional view of an actuated release mechanism contained in a housing 300 of a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, compared with FIG. 13C, FIG. 15 illustrates the interaction between the release mechanism included in the housing 300 of the consumer product and the locking mechanism included in the removable module 205.

For example, as shown in FIG. 15, when the button portion 330 of the release mechanism is actuated, the spring mechanism 340 in the release mechanism compresses and causes the button portion 330 to move within the opening 320 of the housing 300. The actuation of the button portion 330 also causes the plunger 345 of the release mechanism to move from the first position in the recess 325 (for example, the position shown in FIG. 13C) to the second position in the recess 325, such as shown in FIG. 15. In some embodiments, the second position may be a position where the flat or substantially flat bottom surface of the plunger 345 is flush or substantially flush with respect to the channel 315. When the plunger 345 moves from the first position to the second position, the plunger 345 causes the first set of spring mechanisms 250 to be compressed, and this situation causes the locking member 220 to be removed from the recess 325. Once the locking member 220 is removed from the recess 325, the removable module 205 can move in the channel 315.

16A illustrates an exploded perspective view of the locking mechanism of the removable module 500 of the attachment system according to one or more alternative embodiments of the present invention. The removable module 500 shown and described in relation to FIG. 16A can be used in the embodiments shown and described above. Therefore, the removable module 500 can be inserted into the housing of a consumer product, such as the consumer product 180 of FIG. 4A. In addition, the removable module 500 may be removably connected to straps, straps, docking members, brackets, display systems, and the like.

The removable module 500 includes a body 510. The body 510 may be elongated and rounded, such as shown in Figure 16A. In some embodiments, the body 510 may have dimensions similar to those described above with respect to the body 210 of FIG. 7A. In some embodiments, the body 510 includes a proximal end and a distal end. Although not required, each of the near-end and the far-end can be included It includes an arm 513 extending beyond the body 510. That is, in some implementations, the removable module 500 may include a body 510 without an arm 513. In other implementations, the body 510 may include channels, apertures, or other such openings for placing straps or other accessories.

Although the rounded chamfered arm 513 is particularly shown and described with respect to FIG. 16A, the proximal and distal ends of the removable module 500 may be based on the shape of the housing, the shape of the channel in the housing, or based on the removable module The 500 is in any shape or configuration for the desired aesthetics.

The removable module 500 may also include an opening 515 disposed in the main body 510. The opening 515 can be configured to receive the locking member 520 of the locking mechanism and to enable the locking member 520 to move within the opening 515. However, as shown in FIG. 16A, the locking mechanism of this example embodiment does not include a ramp.

The locking member 520 can be made of plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, or any other material or combination of materials. The locking member 520 can be configured in a rounded rectangular shape and includes a flat or substantially flat top surface. In some embodiments, the locking member 520 may have a size similar to that described above with respect to the locking member 220 (FIG. 7A), but other sizes may be used.

The flat or substantially flat top surface of the locking member 520 can be surrounded or substantially surrounded by the chamfered edge 525. When the removable module 500 is inserted into the channel or removed from the recess or other opening in the channel, the inverted The corner edges facilitate the actuation of the locking member 520. In other implementations, the locking member 520 may have a rounded or substantially non-planar top surface. When the locking member 520 is in contact with the channel of the housing, the rounded or substantially non-planar top surface is beneficial to enable Movable lock member 520. Thus, the chamfered edge 525 may not be needed.

In some implementations, the locking member 520 can be actuated by a force applied by a tool or a user. Once the locking member 520 is actuated by the force applied by the user, the removable module 500 can be inserted into the channel of the housing.

More specifically, the locking member 520 can protrude from the main body 510 of the removable module 500. In order to fully insert the removable module 500 into the channel, the locking member 520 may need to be flush or substantially flush with respect to the body 510. Therefore, a personal or tool hand may be required The locking member 520 is dynamically compressed or physically actuated to enable the locking member 520 to be inserted into the channel, and then the body 510 of the removable module 500 can be inserted into the channel. Although the manual actuation of the lock member 520 is specifically discussed with respect to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the manual actuation of the lock member 520 can be used in other embodiments described herein.

The removable module 500 may also include a set of spring mechanisms 530. The set of spring mechanisms 530 can enable the locking member 520 to move from the extended position to the retracted position. In the extended position, the locking member 520 is offset so as to be convex relative to the top surface of the body 510 of the removable module 500 As shown in FIG. 16B, in the retracted position, the top surface of the locking member 520 is flush or substantially flush with the top surface of the body 510 of the removable module 500. Although two spring mechanisms 530 are shown and described, the set of spring mechanisms 530 may include any number of spring mechanisms.

Although not required, the removable module 500 may also include one or more friction pads 540. The friction pad 540 may have dimensions similar to those described above with respect to the friction pad 260 (FIG. 7A). In addition, although the friction pad 540 is shown in a rounded rectangular configuration, the friction pad 540 can be configured in various shapes with varying sizes.

For example, the top surface of the body 510 may include a plurality of friction pads 540, and the bottom surface of the body 510 may include a single friction pad 540 that partially or fully extends along the bottom surface of the body 510. In another embodiment, the three friction pads 540 may be positioned on the bottom surface of the body 510 and located opposite to the two friction pads 540 and the locking member 520 on the top surface of the body 510. In some embodiments, the friction pad 540 may be made of plastic, nylon, or other such materials that help reduce friction between the two surfaces.

The body 510 of the removable module 500 may include one or more recesses for placing the friction pad 540. In an alternative embodiment, the friction pad 540 may be directly placed on the top surface, bottom surface and/or side surface of the body 510 of the removable module 500. The friction pad 540 may be disposed in one or more openings all extending through the axis of the body 510 of the removable module 500.

The friction pad 540 or at least a part of each friction pad 540 may extend or protrude from one or more surfaces of the body 510 of the removable module 500. The part of the friction pad 540 that extends beyond the surface of the body 510 of the removable module 500 can be used to perform the following operations: (1) Increase the consumption of the removable module 500 and the removable module 500 to be inserted into Friction between the channels of the housing of the type product in order to reduce undesirable movement, rattling and/or noise due to any movement of the removable module 500; and (2) maintain or substantially maintain The distance between the surface of the removable module 500 and the surface of the channel of the housing of the consumer product into which the removable module 500 will be inserted.

The removable module 500 may also include one or more occlusal features 550 according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 16A, one or more occlusal features 550 may be placed on the inside of an arm 513 extending from each of the proximal end and the distal end of the body 510 of the removable module 500. One or more occlusal features 550 may be used to fasten a strap or strap (not shown) to the removable module 500, such as described above with respect to FIG. 5B.

Fig. 16B illustrates a perspective view of the assembly locking mechanism of Fig. 16A according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 16B, the locking member 520 of the locking mechanism is placed in the body 510 of the removable module 500, so that the top surface of the locking member 520 is spring-biased relative to the removable module The top side of the body 510 of the group 500 protrudes. Although the locking member 520 is biased by a spring to protrude relative to the top side of the body 510, the set of spring mechanisms 530 enables the locking member 520 to be compressed. This situation makes the locking member 520 from the first position (such as in FIG. 16B) (Shown) move to a second position in which the top surface of the locking member 520 is flush or substantially flush with the top side of the body 510 of the removable module 500.

FIG. 17 illustrates a portion of a housing 600 of a consumer product configured to house the removable module 500 of FIGS. 16A and 16B according to one or more embodiments of the present creation. Although the housing 600 is shown and described as accommodating the removable module 500, other embodiments of the housing shown and described herein can also be used in conjunction with the removable module 500. For example, you can The removable module 500 can be housed in the housing 300 shown and described above in a removable manner.

The housing 600 can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic or any other suitable materials. The housing 600 may include a channel 615 extending from the first side of the housing 600 to the second side of the housing 600. Although the channel 615 is shown as completely extending from the first side of the housing 600 to the second side of the housing 600 in FIG. 9, the channel 615 may partially extend from the first side of the housing 600 to the second side of the housing 600 such that One of the ends of the channel 615 terminates at the inner wall (not shown) of the housing 600.

The channel 615 may have a rounded configuration and be positioned at an angle relative to the housing 600, such as described above with respect to FIG. 4C. The housing 600 also includes a recess 625 disposed in the channel 615 of the housing 600. The recess 625 is configured to receive the locking member of the locking mechanism, such as the locking member 520 (FIG. 13A).

In an embodiment, the recess 625 may be shaped to release and/or compress the locking member of the locking mechanism when a force is applied to the proximal or distal end of the removable module housed in the channel 615. For example, when a force is applied to one end of the removable module, the edge of the recess 625 may cause the locking member of the removable module to begin to compress. As the removable module continues to move in the direction in which the force is applied, the locking member continues to compress until it reaches a fully compressed state (for example, the top surface of the locking member is substantially contained in the base of the removable module The state in the body). Once the locking member is in a fully compressed state, the removable module can move freely in the channel 615 of the housing 600.

FIG. 18A illustrates a removable module 700 of the attachment system according to one or more alternative embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the removable module 700 includes a body 710. The body 710 may be elongated and rounded, such as shown in FIG. 17. In some embodiments, the body 710 may have dimensions similar to those described above with respect to the body 210 of FIG. 7A.

As shown in Figure 18A, the body 710 includes a proximal end and a distal end, but this is not required Each of the shape, the proximal end and the distal end may include an arm 715 that extends beyond the body 710. Although the rounded chamfered arm 715 is specifically shown and described, the proximal and distal ends of the arm 715 and the removable module 700 may be based on the shape of the housing, the shape of the channel in the housing, or the removable module The 700 has any shape or configuration as desired.

The removable module 700 may also include one or more friction pads 720 arranged on one or more surfaces of the removable module 700. For example, the top surface of the removable module 700 may include one or more friction pads 720, and the bottom surface of the removable module 700 may also include one or more friction pads 720. In some embodiments, the friction pad 720 may be made of plastic, nylon, or other such materials that help reduce friction between the two surfaces. In an embodiment, the friction pad 720 may have a size similar to that described above with respect to the friction pad 260 (FIG. 7A). In addition, although the friction pad 720 is shown in a rounded rectangular configuration, the friction pad 720 can be configured in various shapes with varying sizes.

The body 710 of the removable module 700 may include one or more recesses for placing the friction pad 720. In an alternative embodiment, the friction pad 720 may be directly placed on the top surface, bottom surface and/or side surface of the body 710 of the removable module 700. In addition, the friction pad 720 may be disposed in one or more openings all extending through the axis of the body 710 of the removable module 700. In some embodiments, the friction pad 720 may be integrated with the slope 235 (FIG. 7A) and/or the locking member 220 (FIG. 7A) or in addition to the slope 235 (FIG. 7A) and/or the locking member 220 (FIG. 7A) Part.

The friction pad 720 or at least a part of each friction pad 720 can extend or protrude from one or more surfaces of the body 710 of the removable module 700 by 0.11 mm or more than 0.11 mm. In these embodiments, the portion of the friction pad 720 that extends beyond the surface of the body 710 of the removable module 700 can be removably received into a corresponding recess in the channel of the housing, such as the recess 820 in FIG. 18B . In addition, the friction pad 720 can be used to perform the following operations: (1) Increase the friction between the removable module 700 and the channel of the consumer product shell into which the removable module 700 will be inserted in order to reduce the removable Undesirable clicks or clicks of the modular module 700 Move; and (2) maintain or substantially maintain the distance between the surface of the removable module 700 and the surface of the channel of the housing of the consumer product into which the removable module 700 will be inserted.

The removable module 700 may also include one or more occlusal features 730 according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 18A, one or more occlusal features 730 may be placed on the inside of an arm 715 extending from each of the proximal and distal ends of the body 710 of the removable module 700. One or more occlusal features 730 may be used to fasten a strap or strap (not shown) to the removable module 700, such as described above with respect to FIG. 7A.

FIG. 18B illustrates a housing 800 of a consumer product configured to house the removable module 700 of FIG. 18A according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the housing 800 may be part of the attachment system and made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, or any other suitable material. The housing 800 may include a channel 815 extending from the first side of the housing 800 to the second side of the housing 800, such as shown in FIG. 18B. Although the channel 815 is shown as completely extending from the first side of the housing 800 to the second side of the housing 800, the channel 815 may partially extend from the first side of the housing 800 to the second side of the housing 800 so that the end of the channel 815 One of them terminates at the inner wall (not shown) of the housing 800.

In some embodiments, the channel 815 may have a rounded configuration and be positioned at an angle relative to the housing 800. The housing 800 may also include a plurality of recesses 820.

In some embodiments, a plurality of recesses 820 can be used to receive at least a portion of the friction pad, such as the friction pad 720 (FIG. 18A). For example and as discussed above, a portion of the friction pad may protrude from the surface of the removable module. Therefore, one or more of the recesses 820 disposed in the channel 815 can be shaped to receive the protruding portion of the friction pad when the removable module is placed in the channel 815. When the removable module slides in the channel 815, the protruding part of the friction pad can be received in the recess 820. Therefore, the removable module can be locked in position. Similarly, when a force is applied to the proximal or distal end of the removable module, the force causes the friction pad to compress or otherwise remove the friction pad from the recess 820, which makes the removable module 700 Slide in the channel 815.

FIG. 19 illustrates a method 900 for inserting and securing a removable module of an attachment system into a channel of a housing or component of a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The method 900 can be used to insert various attachment systems into various channels, components, apertures, and the like, such as those described herein. For example, the method 900 can be used to insert the removable module 205 shown and described in relation to FIGS. 7A to 9C into the channel 315 of the housing 300 shown and described in relation to FIGS. 10A to 12B. Although the description includes a specific attachment system including removable modules and channels, the method 900 or part thereof can be used to insert any of the removable modules described herein into the various devices described herein In any of the channels.

The method 900 starts when the removable module or snap-in node is inserted (910) into the channel of the housing of the consumer product. More specifically, the top portion of the removable module can be configured to slide relative to consumer products. The removable module may include a locking mechanism with one or more sets of spring mechanisms, a first part and a second part.

The first part of the locking mechanism can be inserted into the channel of the housing or component. In some embodiments, the removable module has a body with a contour shape that is extruded or extended along the length of the body. Similarly, the housing or component may have corresponding openings or features with similar contoured shapes extending along a length or direction. Regarding operation, the removable module can be inserted by sliding the body of the removable module into the opening in the housing along a direction substantially aligned with the length of the body and the length of the opening.

As previously described, the removable module may include a spring-loaded locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the first part of the locking mechanism can be biased by a spring so as to be flush with the removable module. The first part of the locking mechanism can correspond to the locking member described above with respect to the previous figures. The second part of the locking mechanism can be biased by a spring to protrude relative to the removable module. The second part of the locking mechanism may correspond to the ramp part described above with respect to the previous figures. The locking mechanism may also include a first set of spring elements or mechanisms that bias the first part of the locking mechanism and the second part of the locking mechanism away from each other. In addition, the second set of bombs The spring element or mechanism can bias the second part so as to protrude relative to the surface of the removable module. The second set of spring elements or mechanisms can also bias the first part of the locking mechanism so as to be flush with the removable module.

In operation 920, a force is applied to at least one side surface of the removable module. When a force is applied to the replaceable module, the replaceable module slides in the channel in the direction in which the force is applied. The first part of the locking mechanism may have a length substantially equal to or slightly greater than the length of the second part of the locking mechanism. Therefore, when the removable module is slid deeper into the housing, the first part of the locking mechanism enters the channel before the second part of the locking mechanism comes into contact with the outer edge of the channel. Alternatively, the channel may have a first edge that protrudes beyond the second edge, causing the first part of the locking mechanism to engage the first edge before the second part of the locking mechanism engages the second edge. In either case, the channel can keep the first part of the locking mechanism in a compressed state, even when the second part of the locking mechanism begins to enter the compressed state due to contact with the channel such as described above.

In operation 930, the second part of the locking mechanism of the removable module contacts the channel. When the second part of the locking mechanism contacts the channel and continuously applies force to the removable module, the channel causes the second part of the locking mechanism to compress or retract into the removable module.

When the removable module is inserted deep into the channel, the first set of spring elements or mechanisms and the second set of spring elements or mechanisms enable the second part of the locking mechanism to be compressed until the second part of the locking mechanism is contained in Until the removable module or at least until the second part of the locking mechanism is contained in the channel. Although the first and second sets of spring elements or mechanisms are compressed, and although the first set of spring elements or mechanisms bias the first part of the locking mechanism away from the second part of the locking mechanism, the first part of the locking mechanism is contained in the channel Inside, this situation prohibits the expansion of the first part of the locking mechanism. Therefore, the locking mechanism can be maintained in a compressed state.

When the removable module continues to slide in the channel, the locking mechanism remains in a compressed state. However, when the locking mechanism is close to or below the recess contained in the channel, The process proceeds to operation 940 and the locking mechanism can be expanded or extended into the recess of the housing.

More specifically, in operation 940, the first part of the locking mechanism is aligned with and engaged with the recess in the channel. In some embodiments, the first set of spring element mechanisms of the locking mechanism expand. The expansion of the first set of spring elements or mechanisms causes the first part to move in the direction towards the recess. When the first part of the locking mechanism is in the recess, the removable module can be locked in a proper position in the channel. Although the first part of the locking mechanism is in an expanded state (for example, a part of the first part of the locking mechanism extends beyond the state where the removable module is in), the second part of the locking mechanism is due to continued contact with the channel of the housing. Stay in a contracted or retracted state.

In some embodiments, the removable module can be retained or locked with respect to the housing until the first part is disengaged or released relative to the recess in the channel of the housing. The resulting occlusion of the removable module with respect to the housing results in a firm connection between the housing of the device and accessories such as straps, straps or other attached accessories.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example processing procedure 1000 for removing the removable module from the housing or component of a consumer product according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The processing program 1000 can be used to remove various removable modules from various channels such as those described herein. For example, the processing program 1000 can be used to disengage the locking mechanism of the removable module 205 shown and described in relation to FIGS. 7A to 9C and the channel 315 of the housing 300 shown and described in relation to FIGS. 10A to 12B . Although specific removable modules and channels are described, the processing program 1000 or part thereof can be used to remove any of the removable modules described herein from the channels, components, apertures, housings, and housings described herein. Remove any of its similar ones.

In operation 1010, the release mechanism on the housing of the consumer product is activated. The release mechanism can be actuated, for example, by using an object such as a finger or a tool to apply a force to the actuation part or the first part of the release mechanism. In some embodiments, when the first part of the release mechanism is actuated, the spring mechanism in the release mechanism compresses and enables the first part of the release mechanism to move within the opening in the housing. In some embodiments, the first part of the release mechanism corresponds to The actuation part or the button part described in the previous figures. The actuation of the first part can also cause the second part of the release mechanism to move from the first position in the recess of the channel in the housing to the second position in the recess of the channel. In some embodiments, the second part of the release mechanism corresponds to the plunger part described above with respect to the previous figures.

In operation 1020, the movement of the release mechanism can cause the second part of the release mechanism to drive the first part of the locking mechanism of the removable module away from the recess. As previously discussed, the second part of the release mechanism can depress the first part of the locking mechanism to be flush or nearly flush with the surface of the removable module, thereby disengaging the locking mechanism from the housing.

Once the first part of the locking mechanism is driven away from the recess, in operation 1030, force can be applied to the removable module to move the removable module in the channel. For example, when the first part of the release mechanism is actuated, the spring element or mechanism in the release mechanism can compress and enable the first part to move within the housing. The actuation of the first part of the release mechanism can also cause the second part of the release mechanism to move from the first position in the recess to the second position in the recess. When the second part of the release mechanism moves from the first position to the second position, the second part of the release mechanism can compress the spring element or mechanism in the locking mechanism. This compression can cause the first part of the locking mechanism to be removed from the recess. Once the first part of the locking mechanism is removed from the recess, the removable module can move in the channel in the direction of applying force.

In operation 1040, the removable module can be removed from the channel and the second part of the locking mechanism of the removable module can be expanded. In some implementations, when the second part of the locking mechanism is removed from the channel of the housing of the consumer product, the second spring element or mechanism can bias the second part of the locking mechanism relative to the removable module It protrudes and at the same time makes the first part of the locking mechanism offset so as to be flush or substantially flush with respect to the removable module.

The result of the processing program 1000 is: detach the strap, strap or other attached accessories from the housing of the device. In some embodiments, the processing program 1000 can be used to detach the first type of straps, straps, or other attachments, and the method 900 can be used to attach a different second type of straps, straps, or other attachments. Attach accessories. In some embodiments, the The attachment system and method can be used to form an interchangeable system of components and accessories that can be attached to consumer products. Interchangeable components or accessories can change the functionality and/or appearance of consumer products, and thereby expand the applicability or use of specific consumer products.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram illustrating example components (such as hardware components) of a consumer product 1100 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The consumer product 1100 may be similar to the consumer product 104 described above. Although various components of the consumer product 1100 are shown, the connections and communication channels between each of the components are omitted for simplicity.

In a basic configuration, the consumer product 1100 may include at least one processor 1105 or processing unit and a memory 1110. The memory 1110 may include (but is not limited to) volatile storage such as random access memory, non-volatile storage such as read-only memory, flash memory, or any combination thereof. The memory 1110 can store an operating system 1115 suitable for executing software applications 1155 and one or more program modules 1120. The operating system 1115 can be configured to control the consumer product 1100 and/or one or more software applications 1155 can be executed by the operating system 1115. The software application 1155 may include a browser application, an email application, a calendar application, a contact manager application, a messaging application, a game, a media player application, a timing application, and the like.

The consumer product 1100 may have more additional features or functionality than those explicitly described herein. For example, the consumer product 1100 may also include additional data storage devices, such as a removable storage device 1125 and a non-removable storage device 1130. Examples of such storage devices include magnetic disks, optical discs, or tapes.

As also shown in FIG. 21, the consumer product 1100 may include one or more input devices 1135. The input device 1135 may include a keyboard, a mouse, a pen or stylus, a voice input device, a touch input device, and the like. The consumer product 1100 may also include one or more output devices 1140. The output device 1140 may include a display, one or more speakers, and the like. The consumer product 1100 may also include one or more tactile actuators 1160 for providing tactile feedback. In some embodiments, the consumer product 1100 may also include one or more sensors Device1165. Sensors may include (but are not limited to) accelerometers, ambient light sensors, gyroscopes, magnetometers, and other types of sensors.

The consumer product 1100 may also include a communication connection 1145 to facilitate communication with an additional computing device 1150. These communication connections 1145 may include RF transmitters, receivers and/or transceiver circuitry, universal serial bus (USB) communications, parallel ports, and/or serial ports.

As used herein, the term computer-readable media may include computer storage media. Computer storage media may include volatile and non-volatile media and/or removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for information storage. Examples include computer-readable instructions, data structures, or program modules. The memory 1110, the removable storage device 1125, and the non-removable storage device 1130 are all examples of computer storage media. Computer storage media may include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital video disc (DVD) or other optical storage devices, cassette tapes , Magnetic tapes, magnetic disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or any other manufactured items that can be used to store information and that can be accessed by the consumer product 1100.

The consumer product 1100 may also include a synchronization application or module (not shown) configured to synchronize applications or data residing on the consumer product 1100 with another computer or device.

The consumer product 1100 may also include power supplies such as battery packs, solar cells, and the like, which provide power to each of the displayed components. The power supply may also include an external power source, such as an AC adapter or other such connector for replenishing or recharging the battery pack. The consumer product 1100 may also include a radio that performs the functions of transmitting and receiving radio frequency communications. In addition, the communication received by radio can be broadcast to the application. Similarly, communications from applications can be broadcast to the radio as needed.

The consumer product 1100 may also include a visual indicator, a keypad, and a display. In an embodiment, the keypad may be a physical keypad or a virtual keypad generated on a touch screen display. Visual indicators can be used to provide visual notifications to users of consumer products. remove The fee-based product 1100 may also include an audio interface for generating audible notifications and warnings.

In some embodiments, the visual indicator is a light emitting diode (LED) or other such light source, and the audio interface is a speaker. In some embodiments, the audio interface can be configured to receive audio input.

The audio interface can also be used to provide audible signals and receive audible signals from users of the consumer product 1100. For example, a microphone can be used to receive audible input. The system may further include a video interface that enables the operation of the on-board camera to record still images, videos, and the like.

In one or more embodiments, the data and information generated or captured by the consumer product 1100 may be stored locally. Additionally or alternatively, data can be stored on any number of storage media, which can be accessed by consumer products using radios, wired connections or wireless connections between the consumer products and remote computing devices. In addition, data and information can be easily transferred between computing devices.

Figures 22A-22F illustrate various removable modules and attached accessories that can be used in the various attachment systems described herein. Each of the removable modules shown in FIGS. 22A-22F can be similar to the various removable modules described above. For example, the removable module shown in FIGS. 22A to 22F may be similar to the removable module 205 shown and described with respect to FIGS. 7A to 7B. Although the various removable modules shown and described in these figures can be interfaced with straps or other accessories in various ways, the functionality of the removable modules remains the same. For example, the locking mechanism (if any) of each removable module can be configured to be received in the recess of the channel such as described above. In addition, the friction pad can also provide the same functionality and so on.

FIG. 22A illustrates an example removable module 1200 in which the components of the removable module and/or the removable module are integrated with the strip 1210. FIG. More specifically, the removable module 1200 and various components of the removable module 1200 (for example, a locking mechanism, a friction pad, etc.) may be formed in the strap 1210 itself or protrude from the strap 1210. In another embodiment, the strip 1210 may include It is overmolded on the removable module 1200 so that various components can protrude through the strap 1210 or be accessed through the strap 1210 in other ways.

FIG. 22B illustrates another embodiment in which the removable module 1200 of the attachment system is coupled to the strap 1220. In this embodiment, the strip 1220 may be a mesh material, such as a metal mesh. Although metal mesh is specifically mentioned, other materials can be used. For example, the strap 1220 may be made of woven fibers or other such materials. In some embodiments, the removable module 1200 can be directly coupled to the strap 1220. In another embodiment, a pin or other connection mechanism can be used to fasten the strap 1220 to the removable module 1200.

FIG. 22C illustrates another embodiment of the removable module 1200 of the attachment system. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22C, the rod body 1230 can be integrated with the removable module 1200 such that the rod body 1230 and the removable module 1200 form a single unitary component. Therefore, a strap, an object, or another accessory can be screwed, woven, or otherwise inserted through the opening formed between the rod body 1230 and the removable module 1200. In another embodiment, a strap or other such accessory can be coupled (eg, clamp, buckle, etc.) to the rod body 1230 in a removable manner. In other implementations, strips or other accessories may be overmolded onto the rod body 1230.

FIG. 22D illustrates another example of a removable module 1200 of an attachment system, in which the removable module 1200 is coupled to a strap 1240 composed of multiple links or includes a strap 1240 in other ways. More specifically, the strap 1240 may be composed of several links that can be attached to and detached from each other. In some implementations, one of the links may be a removable module 1200. In another embodiment, a pin or other such fastening mechanism may be used to couple the strap 1240 or one of the links in the strap 1240 to the removable module 1200.

Figure 22E illustrates an example removable module 1200 and associated strap 1250 of the attachment system. In this particular example, the removable module 1200 or part of the removable module 1200 may be integrated with the strap 1250. More specifically, one or more components of the removable module 1200 (for example, friction pads, locking mechanisms, etc.) may be coupled to the strap 1250. In another implementation, the body part of the removable module 1200 can be covered by a part of the strip 1250, and these groups The pieces remain exposed. The strip 1250 may be a leather strip, a silicon strip, a plastic strip, and the like.

22F illustrates an embodiment of a removable module 1200 of an attachment system that includes a bracket 1270 coupled to both the strap 1260 and the removable module 1200. In some implementations, the strip 1260 may be overmolded onto the bracket 1270. In another embodiment, the strap 1260 may include openings, holes, or other apertures through which the bracket 1270 can be inserted. In some embodiments and as will be described below, the bracket 1270 can be composed of two separate pieces that can be coupled to and decoupled from each other in order to fasten the strap 1260 to the bracket 1270 and can The removable module 1200 or the strip 1260 is removed from the bracket 1270 and the removable module 1200. In addition, each piece of the bracket 1270 can be removably coupled to the removable module 1200.

In each of the examples described above, whether integrated with or coupled to various straps, the removable module 1200 can be inserted into the housing of a consumer product such as the one described above In the channel. In addition, each of the straps can be formed of different materials or can be made using different configurations.

For example, the strip 1260 may be formed of a fabric material, and the fabric material may be constructed from a pattern of threads or fiber materials. The fabric material can include a variety of materials, including natural fibers, synthetic fibers, metal fibers, ductile metals or alloys, and so on. The strip can also be formed of a woven material, which can be constructed from an array of warp fibers or threads interwoven with one or more weft fibers or threads. Similarly, warp fibers and weft fibers may include a variety of materials, including natural fibers, synthetic fibers, metal fibers, and so on.

In another embodiment, the strap may be formed of a leather material, such as a sheet or strip of cowhide or other types of animal skins. Leather materials may also include synthetic leather materials, such as vinyl or plastic. In still other embodiments, the strap may be formed of a metal mesh or chain link configuration. For example, the strip 1220 can be formed by Milano net or other similar types of construction. The strips can also be formed of silicone or other elastomeric materials.

In some cases, the strip is a composite construction that includes various materials that can be selected based on the end use or application. In some embodiments, the first strap or the first portion of the first strap can be composed of a first material, and the second strap or the second portion of the second strap can be different from the second Made of materials. The strap can also be composed of a plurality of links, and therefore, the size of the strap can be reset by adding or removing links, for example.

As discussed above, each removable module and strip combination can be interchangeable, which allows for individual customization of the device or better adaptation of the device for a range of uses or applications. In some cases, the type of strips selected and installed can promote specific user activities. For example, a strap formed of a fabric material and including a durable buckle may be particularly suitable for exercise or outdoor activities. Alternatively, a strip formed of a metal material and including a thin or low-profile buckle may be more suitable for more formal or up-to-date events.

In some embodiments, pins, holes, adhesives, screws, etc. may be used to couple the strap to the removable module 1200. In still other embodiments, the strap may be co-molded or over-molded with at least a portion of a component having mating features, such as the rod 1230 discussed above. In some embodiments, the strap is coupled to the assembly via a pin that allows the strap to rotate relative to the assembly. The pin may be formed integrally with the loop formed in the end of the strap or placed in the loop.

In some embodiments, each strap may have a strap buckle. An example buckle may include a first strap strap having a loop or tang assembly, the first strap strap being configured to be combined with a second strap having a series of apertures or holes formed with the strap Interfacing with straps. Additionally or alternatively, the strap may include a magnetic buckle having one or more magnetic elements on the first strap strap, the first strap strap being configured to match one of the second strap straps Or multiple magnetic or ferromagnetic elements cooperate.

FIG. 23 illustrates an exploded view of the removable module 1300 of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The removable module 1300 may be similar to the removable module 1200 shown and described above with respect to FIG. 22F.

The removable module 1300 may have a body 1310 having shapes, components, and dimensions similar to those described above with respect to the other embodiments described herein. Thus, the removable module can include one or more friction pads, locking mechanisms, etc., and can be adapted to be housed in the channels of electronic, electromechanical, or mechanical devices.

The removable module 1300 may also include a bracket formed by the first section 1320 and the second section 1330. As shown in FIG. 23, each of the first section 1320 and the second section 1330 may have an "L" shape, but other shapes and configurations are possible.

More specifically, the first section 1320 may include a first protrusion connected to the second protrusion at a rounded angle. The second protrusion may include a plug-in protrusion extending therefrom. Similarly, the second section 1330 may include a first protrusion connected to the second protrusion at a rounded angle. The second protrusion of the second section 1330 may include a jack socket configured to receive the plug-in protrusion of the first section 1320.

More specifically, the plug-in protrusions of the first section 1320 can be configured to fit snugly into or otherwise received into the jack sockets of the second section 1330. This situation may enable the first section 1320 and the second section 1330 to be joined together to form a single single piece. In addition, each of the first section 1320 and the second section 1330 can be inserted into a hole in a strap or other such accessory. Once inserted into the aperture of the strap or accessory, the plug-in portion of the first section 1320 can be received into the socket-type portion of the second section 1330. In this case, the strap or accessory is fastened to the bracket. The bracket is then coupled to the removable module 1300.

In another implementation, the first section 1320 can be joined or otherwise coupled to the second section 1330, and the strap or accessory can then be coupled to the resulting bracket. The bracket and strap combination can then be coupled to the body 1310.

The body 1310 of the removable module 1300 also defines an aperture 1340. The aperture 1340 is configured to receive the end portions of the first section 1320 and the second section 1330 respectively (for example, it does not include the end portions of the plug-in protrusion and the jack-type socket). For example, the first pore can It is configured to receive the distal end of the first section 1320, and the second aperture can be configured to receive the distal end of the second section 1330.

One or more bolts, screws 1350, or other suitable fastening mechanisms can then be inserted through the aperture 1340. The screw 1350 can fasten the first section 1320 of the bracket and the second section 1330 of the bracket to the main body 1310. Fastening the first section 1320 and the second section 1330 of the bracket to the body in this way can also fasten straps or accessories to the removable module 1300, and also fasten the first section 1320 To the second section 1330.

In order to remove the bracket from the body 1310 (for example, to change the straps or accessories coupled to the removable module 1300), the screws 1350 can be removed from the first section 1320 and the second section 1330. The first section 1320 and the second section 1330 can then be decoupled and the strap or accessory can be removed.

24 to 31 illustrate various views of the removable module 1400 of the attachment system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of the bottom surface of the removable module 1400, FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of the top surface of the removable module 1400, and FIG. 26 illustrates the perspective view of the removable module 1400 A top view of the bottom surface, FIG. 27 illustrates a top view of the top surface of the removable module 1400, FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate a left side view and a right side view of the removable module 1400, and FIG. 30 illustrates the removable module A front view of 1400, and FIG. 31 illustrates a rear view of the removable module 1400. Because each of these figures illustrates various views of the removable module 1400, similar reference numerals may be used throughout FIGS. 24 to 31. In some embodiments, the removable module 1400 described with respect to these figures may be similar to the various removable modules described herein. Thus, the removable module 1400 can include many of the sizes, features, and components described above.

Referring to FIG. 24, the removable module 1400 may include a rounded body 1405 and one or more arms 1410 extending from the body 1405. This shape of the body 1405 may have a teardrop shape, such as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. The body 1405 may include a locking mechanism such as that described above. The locking mechanism may include a ramp 1415, which is configured from the bottom of the removable module 1400 The surface is prominent. Thus, when the removable module 1400 is inserted into a channel or groove of a consumer product, the locking mechanism can be activated, such as described above.

In addition, the removable module 1400 may include one or more friction pads 1420. The friction pad 1420 can be positioned on both the bottom surface of the body 1405 and the top surface of the body 1405 (shown in FIG. 25). In addition, the friction pad 1420 can be positioned on either side of the locking mechanism. As shown in FIGS. 28 to 31, the friction pad 1420 may protrude from both the bottom surface of the body 1405 and the top surface of the body 1405. Although the friction pad 1420 is shown and described, in some embodiments, the removable module 1400 may not have a friction pad or the friction pad may be positioned on a single side.

The body 1405 of the removable module 1400 may include an arm 1410 extending from the body 1405. The arm 1410 of the removable module 1400 may have the following width: it begins to narrow at one end, and becomes wider as the arm 1410 is closer to the body 1405 of the removable module 1400. That is, the arm 1410 may have a narrow width at the proximal end, and when the arm 1410 is integrated with the body 1405, it has a wider width. Each arm 1410 may include a side wall extending along the outside of the removable module constituting the width of the removable module 1400.

The sidewalls of each arm 1410 may be angled and/or gradually become smaller, such as shown in FIGS. 24 and 26. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 24, 26 and 30, the side walls of each arm 1410 may be angled or inclined from the top surface of the body 1405 toward the bottom surface of the body 1405. The body may also include rounded edges that transition from the top surface of the body 1405 to the bottom surface of the body 1405 or connect the top surface of the body 1405 to the bottom surface of the body 1405 in other ways.

The pin 1425 can be fastened between the arms 1410 of the removable module 1400. As discussed above, the pin may be removably received into one or more recesses in the arm 1410. In another embodiment, the pin 1425 can be directly coupled to the arm 1410 to form an integrated piece. In some cases, the pin 1425 can be screwed into the arm or body 1405 of the removable module. The pin 1425 can also be formed by two or more separate pieces that can be coupled together. The pins 1425 can be used to fasten straps, straps, or other objects/accessories to the removable module 1400.

FIG. 25 illustrates the top surface of the body 1405 of the removable module 1400. FIG. As discussed above, the top surface of the body 1405 includes a part of the locking mechanism. More specifically, the locking member 1430 of the locking mechanism may be disposed on the top surface of the body 1405 such that when the locking mechanism is in its fully expanded state, the locking member 1430 is flush or substantially flush with the body 1405. The position of the locking member 1430 is further shown in FIGS. 30 and 31.

For the purpose of explanation, the foregoing description uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that no specific details are required in order to practice the described embodiments. Therefore, the foregoing description of the specific embodiments described herein is presented for the purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. It will be obvious to those who are familiar with this technique. In view of the above teaching, many modifications and changes are possible.

In addition, regardless of whether the features shown and described herein are shown and described in combination or separately, various features including structural features and method features are intended to be selectively included or omitted to produce an embodiment having a specific set of features. In addition, the directions and orientations described above can be reversed. For example, the top part or surface in one embodiment may be the bottom part or surface in another embodiment. Likewise, the bottom part or surface in one embodiment may be the top surface or part in another embodiment. In the context of providing the description and explanation of this application, those familiar with the art can imagine changes, modifications and alternative embodiments that fall within the spirit of the broader aspects of the embodiments described herein, which do not depart from the claims. The broader scope of the embodiments.

In addition, the embodiment of the present creation is described above with reference to the block diagram of the method and the operation description and the like. The operations described may occur out of the order shown in any of the figures. In addition, one or more operations may be removed or performed substantially in parallel. For example, two blocks displayed continuously can be executed substantially in parallel. In addition, the blocks can be executed in the reverse order.