PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10367300-B2
Application Number: US-201315108777-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Electrical and mechanical connection mechanisms

Abstract:
An electronic device and an attachment element that includes one or more electronic components each include connection mechanisms. The connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element may be engaged to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device and the attachment element. Such electrical connection may electrically couple the one or more electrical components of the attachment element to the electronic device. The connection mechanisms may utilize one or more of a variety of different mechanical connection mechanism such as one or more snap mechanisms, twist mechanisms, threaded mechanisms, detent mechanisms, spring mechanisms, slide mechanisms, magnetic mechanisms, and/or any other mechanism for mechanical and electrical attachment.

Claims:
We claim: 
     
       1. A system, comprising:
 an electronic watch, comprising:
 a body defining a first connection mechanism including a notch having overhang portions extending from a base portion at a base of the notch; and 
 a processing unit located in the body, wherein the body comprises an electrical contact positioned in the base portion of the notch that is electrically connected to the processing unit; and 
 
 a band segment configured to attach the electronic watch to a body part of a user, comprising:
 a second connection mechanism; and 
 an electronic component; wherein: 
 
 the second connection mechanism comprises a detent mechanism that is configured to be displaced by the electronic watch while the band segment is being attached to the electronic watch; and 
 the electronic watch and the band segment are mechanically and electrically coupled by an engagement between the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism. 
 
     
     
       2. The system of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first connection mechanism or the second connection mechanism comprises a mechanical connection portion and an electrical connection portion. 
     
     
       3. The system of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first connection mechanism or the second connection mechanism comprises a connection portion that both electrically and mechanically couples the electronic watch to the band segment. 
     
     
       4. The system of  claim 1 , wherein the electronic watch is attachable to the band segment while the band segment is attached to the body part. 
     
     
       5. The system of  claim 1 , wherein the electronic watch is detachable from the band segment while the band segment is attached to the body part. 
     
     
       6. The system of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the electronic watch or the band segment further comprises an additional connection mechanism that connects to an additional electronic watch or an additional band segment. 
     
     
       7. The system of  claim 1 , wherein the electronic component comprises at least one battery, connection adapter, connection cable, storage component, computing component, communication component, global positioning system, barcode reader, credit card processing unit, scanner, printer, display, speaker, or microphone. 
     
     
       8. The system of  claim 1 , wherein the band segment includes a connector operable to couple the electronic watch to at least one of a computing device or a power source when the electronic watch is attached to the band segment. 
     
     
       9. The system of  claim 1 , wherein the band segment is configured to operate as a charger for the electronic watch. 
     
     
       10. The system of  claim 1 , wherein the electronic watch is utilizable in a plurality of orientations and is attachable to the band segment in each of the plurality of orientations. 
     
     
       11. An electronic device, comprising:
 a watch, comprising:
 a body defining a notch having overhang portions extending from a base portion at a base of the notch; and 
 a processing unit located in the body, wherein the body comprises an electrical contact positioned in the base portion of the notch that is electrically connected to the processing unit; and 
 
 a strap operable to couple the watch to a user, comprising:
 an electronic component; and 
 a detent that is configured to be compressed by the body while being engaged with the notch to mechanically connect the body and the strap and electrically connect the processing unit and the electronic component. 
 
 
     
     
       12. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein the detent is moveable into the strap and out of the strap. 
     
     
       13. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein the detent comprises an electrical contact. 
     
     
       14. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein the strap further comprises a connector that connects the strap to an additional strap or an additional electronic device. 
     
     
       15. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein:
 the body defines an additional notch; and 
 the strap includes an additional detent that inserts into the additional notch to connect the body and the strap. 
 
     
     
       16. An electronic watch, comprising:
 a housing that defines a notch having overhang portions extending from a base portion at a base of the notch; 
 a first electronic component located in the housing, wherein the housing comprises an electric contact positioned in the base portion of the notch that is electrically connected to the first electronic component; and 
 a belt operable to couple the housing to a user, comprising:
 a second electronic component located in the belt; 
 an end that is configured to be inserted into the notch; and 
 a pin coupled to the end and configured to be displaced by the housing when the end is inserted into the notch to mechanically couple the belt and the housing and electrically connect the first and second electronic components. 
 
 
     
     
       17. The electronic watch of  claim 16 , wherein the belt is detachable from the housing when force is exerted on the pin to disengage the pin from the notch. 
     
     
       18. The electronic watch of  claim 16 , wherein the housing comprises an electronic contact positioned in the notch that is electrically connected to the first electronic component. 
     
     
       19. The electronic watch of  claim 16 , wherein pressure exerted by the housing on the pin displaces the pin. 
     
     
       20. The electronic watch of  claim 16 , wherein:
 the housing defines an additional notch wherein the notch and the additional notch are disposed on opposite ends of the housing; 
 the belt includes an additional end; and 
 the additional end is configured to insert into the additional notch to couple the belt and the housing.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a 35 U.S.C. § 371 application of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2013/078169, filed Dec. 29, 2013 and titled “Electrical and Mechanical Connection Mechanisms,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates generally to connection mechanisms, and more specifically to connection mechanisms that electrically and mechanically connect devices to attachment elements. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Attachment elements are frequently utilized to couple devices to body parts of users and/or other objects. Such attachment elements may include bands, belts, straps, and other such elements and such devices may include watch bodies, belt buckles, backpacks, and/or other such devices. For example, a watch band may be utilized to couple a watch to the wrist, ankle, arm, and so on of a user. In this way, the device may be releasably attached to a user&#39;s body part or other object. 
     In some cases, the device may be mechanically attached to the attachment element(s) utilizing one or more connection mechanisms. Such connection mechanisms may be releasably attachable in some cases such that the device may be attached and/or detached from the attachment element. Regardless, such connection mechanisms operate to mechanically attach the attachment element to the device. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure discloses systems and methods for electrically and mechanically connecting devices and attachment elements. One or more electronic devices and one or more attachment elements that include one or more electronic components may each include one or more connection mechanisms. The connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element may be engaged to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device and the attachment element. Such electrical connection may electrically couple the one or more electrical components of the attachment element to the electronic device. 
     The electronic device may be any kind of electronic device such as an electronic watch, a laptop computer, a digital media player, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a mobile computing device, a tablet computing device, a pedometer, a heart rate and/or other body status monitor, and/or any other such electronic device. The attachment element may be any kind of attachment element that can couple the electronic device to a body part of a user and/or other object such as one or more bands, straps, and/or other such attachment element. 
     The connection mechanisms may utilize one or more of a variety of different mechanical connection mechanisms. Such mechanical connection mechanisms may include a variety of different snap mechanisms, twist mechanisms, threaded mechanisms, detent mechanisms, spring mechanisms, slide mechanisms, magnetic mechanisms, and/or any other mechanism for mechanical attachment. The connection mechanisms may also utilize one or more of a variety of different wired and/or wireless electrical connection mechanisms. Such electrical connection mechanism may include one or more electrical contacts and/or any other mechanism for electrical connection. In some cases, the mechanical connection mechanism may be the same mechanism as the electrical connection mechanism. 
     The electronic component of the attachment element may be any kind of electronic component that may be electrically coupled to the electronic device. Such electronic components may include one or more batteries, connection adapters and/or other cables, storage components, computing components, communication components, global positioning systems, barcode readers, credit card processing units, scanners, printers, displays, speakers, microphones, and/or any other electronic component that may be utilized with the electronic device. 
     Additionally, the attachment element and/or the electronic device may be coupleable to one or more other electronic devices. Such other electronic devices may be electrically and/or mechanically attachable to the attachment element and/or the electronic device. In cases where the other electronic devices are electrically coupled to one of the attachment element or the electronic device, the electronic device may also be electrically coupled to the other of the attachment element or the electronic device via the directly connected device. 
     In one or more implementations, a system for connecting electronic devices and attachment elements includes: at least one electronic device including at least one first connection mechanism and at least one attachment element including: at least one second connection mechanism and at least one electronic component; wherein the at least one electronic device and the at least one attachment element are mechanically and electrically attachable by engaging the at least one first connection mechanism with the at least one second connection mechanism such that the at least one electronic device is electrically coupled to the at least one electronic component. 
     In various implementations, a method for connecting electronic devices and attachment elements includes: engaging a first connection mechanism of at least one electronic device with a second connection mechanism of at least one attachment element; mechanically attaching the at least one electronic device to the at least one attachment element utilizing the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism; and electrically connecting the at least one electronic device to the at least one attachment element utilizing the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism. 
     In some implementations, a method for disconnecting electronic devices and attachment elements includes: disengaging a first connection mechanism of at least one electronic device from a second connection mechanism of at least one attachment element; mechanically detaching the at least one electronic device from the at least one attachment element utilizing the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism; and electrically disconnecting the at least one electronic device from the at least one attachment element utilizing the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are for purposes of example and explanation and do not necessarily limit the present disclosure. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate subject matter of the disclosure. Together, the descriptions and the drawings serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is a side cross sectional view of a first embodiment of a system for connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates the system of  FIG. 1A  after the electromechanical connection snap mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 2A  is a side cross sectional view of a second embodiment of a system connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates the system of  FIG. 2A  after the electromechanical connection snap mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 3A  is a side cross sectional view of a third embodiment of a system for connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical threaded twist connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates the system of  FIG. 3A  after the electromechanical threaded twist connection mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 4A  is a side cross sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a system connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical toe-in snap connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates the system of  FIG. 4A  after the electromechanical toe-in snap connection mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 5A  is a side cross sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a system for connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates the system of  FIG. 5A  after the electromechanical snap connection mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 6A  is a side cross sectional view of a sixth embodiment of a system for connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical twist connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 6B  is a top view of the attachment element of  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 6C  illustrates the system of  FIG. 6A  after the electromechanical twist connection mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 7A  is a side cross sectional view of a seventh embodiment of a system for connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical slide connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 7B  is a top view of the attachment element of  FIG. 7A . 
         FIG. 7C  illustrates the system of  FIG. 7A  after the electromechanical slide connection mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 8A  is a side cross sectional view of an eighth embodiment of a system for connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 8B  illustrates the system of  FIG. 8A  after the electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 8C  illustrates the system of  FIG. 8A  after the electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device to the attachment element by connecting the attachment element and the electronic device to an intermediate electronic device. 
         FIG. 9A  is a side cross sectional view of an ninth embodiment of a system for connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 9B  is a side cross sectional view of a first alternative version of the ninth embodiment of the system of  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 9C  is a top view of a second alternative version of the ninth embodiment of the system of  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 10A  is a side cross sectional view of a tenth embodiment of a system for connecting an electronic device to an attachment element utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism. 
         FIG. 10B  illustrates the system of  FIG. 10A  after the electromechanical snap connection mechanism is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect additional electronic devices to the attachment element. 
         FIG. 11  is a flow chart illustrating a method for connecting a device to an attachment element utilizing a connection mechanism. This method may be performed utilizing any of the systems of  FIGS. 1A-10B . 
         FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating a method for disconnecting a device from an attachment element utilizing a connection mechanism. This method may be performed utilizing any of the systems of  FIGS. 1A-10B . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The description that follows includes sample systems, methods, and computer program products that embody various elements of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the described disclosure may be practiced in a variety of forms in addition to those described herein. 
     The present disclosure discloses systems and methods for electrically and mechanically connecting devices and attachment elements. One or more electronic devices and one or more attachment elements that include one or more electronic components may each include one or more connection mechanisms. The connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element may be engaged to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device and the attachment element. Such electrical connection may electrically couple the one or more electrical components of the attachment element to the electronic device. 
     The electronic device may be any kind of electronic device such as an electronic watch, a laptop computer, a digital media player, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a mobile computing device, a tablet computing device, a pedometer, a heart rate and/or other body status monitor, and/or any other such electronic device. The attachment element may be any kind of attachment element that can couple the electronic device to a body part of a user and/or other object such as one or more bands, straps, and/or other such attachment element. 
     The connection mechanisms may utilize one or more of a variety of different mechanical connection mechanisms. Such mechanical connection mechanisms may include a variety of different snap mechanisms, twist mechanisms, threaded mechanisms, detest mechanisms, spring mechanisms, slide mechanisms, magnetic mechanisms, and/or any other mechanism for mechanical attachment. The connection mechanisms may also utilize one or more of a variety of different wired and/or wireless electrical connection mechanisms. Such electrical connection mechanism may include one or more electrical contacts and/or any other mechanism for electrical connection. In some cases, the mechanical connection mechanism may be the same mechanism as the electrical connection mechanism. 
     The electronic component of the attachment element may be any kind of electronic component that may be electrically coupled to the electronic device. Such electronic components may include one or more batteries, connection adapters and/or other cables, storage components, computing components, communication components, global positioning systems, barcode readers, credit card processing units, scanners, printers, displays, speakers, microphones, and/or any other electronic component that may be utilized with the electronic device. 
     Additionally, the attachment element and/or the electronic device may be coupleable to one or more other electronic devices. Such other electronic devices may be electrically and/or mechanically attachable to the attachment element and/or the electronic device. In cases where the other electronic devices are electrically coupled to one of the attachment element or the electronic device, the electronic device may also be electrically coupled to the other of the attachment element or the electronic device via the directly connected device. 
       FIG. 1A  is a side cross sectional view of a first embodiment of a system  100  for connecting an electronic device  101  to an attachment element  102  utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism  105  and  106 . 
     The system  100  includes an electronic device  101  (which may be any kind of electronic device) and an attachment element  102 . As illustrated, the attachment element  102  is a bracelet-style band. However, it is understood that this is an example and that in various implementations the attachment element may be any kind of attachment element. 
     The electronic device  101  may include a housing  103  and/or one or more electronic components  104 . Such electronic components may include one or more processing units, one or more communication components, one or more non-transitory storage media (which may take the form of, but is not limited to, a magnetic storage medium; optical storage medium; magneto-optical storage medium; read only memory; random access memory; erasable programmable memory; flash memory; and so on), and/or any other electronic component. The attachment element  102  may also include one or more electronic components  112 , which may be any kind of electronic component such as one or more batteries, connection adapters and/or other cables, storage components, computing components, communication components, global positioning systems, barcode readers, credit card processing units, scanners, printers, displays, speakers, microphones, and/or any other electronic component. 
     As illustrated, the electronic device  101  may also include conductive elements  109  and a connection mechanism  105 . The connection mechanism  105  may include a plug  105  that includes notches  108  and contacts  110 . Each notch  108  can be defined by a base portion  130  positioned at a base  131  of notch  108 , and overhang portions  132  and  134  extending from base portion  130 . The conductive elements  109  may electrically couple the contacts  109  to the electronic component  104 . 
     As also illustrated, the attachment element  102  may also include conductive elements  111  and a connection mechanism  106 . The connection mechanism  106  may include spring  104  loaded detents  113 . The conductive elements  111  may electrically couple the electronic component  112  to the detents  113 . 
     The electronic device  101  may be attachable to the attachment element  102  by engaging the connection mechanisms  105  and  106 . Such connection may mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device  101  and the attachment element  102  and may be accomplished by inserting the connection mechanism  105  into the connection mechanism  106 . 
     When the connection mechanism  105  is inserted into the connection mechanism  106 , the spring  114  loaded detents  113  may be compressed by the plug  107  until the spring  114  loaded detents  113  are able to enter the notches  108 . The spring  114  loaded detents  113  present in the notches  108  may mechanically connect the electronic device  101  to the attachment element  102  until sufficient force is exerted to again compress the springs  114  such that the plug  107  can be removed from the connection mechanism  106 .  FIG. 1B  illustrates the system  100  of  FIG. 1A  after the electromechanical snap connection mechanism  105  and  106  is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device  101  to the attachment element  102 . 
     Additionally, while the spring  114  loaded detents  113  are present in the notches  108 , the detents  113  may contact the contacts  110  positioned in base portion  130  at base  131  of notch  108 . This may electrically connect the electronic components  112  and  104  via the conductive elements  111  and  109 . 
     Although the connection mechanism  105  is illustrated and described above as including the plug  107 , it is understood that this is an example. In various implementations, the connection mechanism  106  may instead include a plug that is inserted into the connection mechanism  105  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Further, though the connection mechanism  105  is illustrated with two notches  108 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the connection mechanism  105  may include a variety of notches  108  such that the electronic device  101  may be attached to the attachment element  102  in a variety of different orientations. For example, the electronic device  101  may include a display that has both a landscape and portrait orientation and the connection mechanism  105  may include notches  108  to enable the electronic device to be attached to the attachment element  102  such that either the portrait or landscape orientations of the display are presented to a user when the attachment element  102  is attached to a body part of the user. 
     Additionally, though the attachment element  102  is illustrated as a bracelet-style band that may enable the electronic device  101  to be attached and/or detached without removing the bracelet-style band, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element  102  may be any kind of attachment element, such as one or more bands, straps, and/or any other attachment element. 
     In some cases, the attachment element  102  may not include at least one electronic component  112  and may not have any associated functionality. In other cases, the attachment element  102  may include one or more electronic components  112  and may have associated functionality only when electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device  101  (and/or other electronic devices and/or other attachment elements). In still other cases, the attachment element  102  may include one or more electronic components  112  and may have associated functionality regardless whether or not the attachment element  102  is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device  101  (and/or other electronic devices and/or attachment elements). In such cases, such functionality may alter when the attachment element  102  is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device  101  (and/or other electronic devices and/or attachment elements). 
     By way of a first example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more batteries (which may be rechargeable and/or replaceable). Such a battery (which may be a large capacity battery to offer maximum power life for attachment elements  102  designed for multi day travel and/or small capacity batteries in order to result in minimum volume and weight for attachment elements  102  designed for active situations such as an outdoor run) may function to extend a battery life of the electronic device  101  when the attachment element  102  is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device  101 . Additionally, such a battery may function to power various features and/or components of the attachment element  102  regardless whether or not the attachment element  102  is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device  101 , only when the attachment element  102  is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device  101 , only when the attachment element  102  is not electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device  101 , and so on. 
     By way of a second example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more antennas (such as a near field communication antenna, a Bluetooth antenna, a WiFi antenna, and/or other such antenna). Such an antenna may enable the antenna to not have to be included in the electronic device  101 , enabling the electronic device  101  to be smaller (since long antennas may be required) and/or made from different materials (since materials such as metals may interfere with antenna communications). In some cases, such antennas may interface with radiofrequency modules included in the electronic device  101 , though in other cases such radiofrequency modules may be included in the attachment element  102 . 
     By way of a third example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more global positioning system components or systems. Such a component may provide similar benefits to attachment elements  102  that include antennas. In some cases, the global positioning system may include a storage component (such as flash storage and/or other storage) for storing map data, a travel log, and/or other such data. In various cases, the global positioning system may operate independently of the electronic device  101  such that global positioning system data may be logged until the attachment element  102  is reconnected to the electronic device  101 . Such a case may enable a user to go out for a run with the attachment element  102  but not the electronic device  101  but still be able to record the route travelled. 
     By way of a fourth example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more displays. Such displays may be an E-ink display, an organic light emitting diode display light emitting diode display, and/or other kind of displays or light up indicators. Such a display may be an extension of a display of the electronic device  101  and/or may display particular data (e.g. battery life, local weather, user biometric stats, artwork and/or other aesthetic designs or displays) and may or may not continue to display such data regardless of whether or not the attachment element  102  is electronically and/or mechanically connected to and/or disconnected from the electronic device  101 . In some cases, an E-ink display may continue to display an image or design (with or without power) when disconnected from the electronic device  101 . In various cases, one or more light emitting diodes may blink or illuminate in other ways to make a user visible in darkness and/or dim illumination. 
     By way of a fifth example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more microphone and/or speaker combinations. Inclusion of such elements in the attachment element  102  may enable the electronic device  101  to be significantly smaller due to the large back volume that may be required for a speaker. Additionally, the electronic device  101  may be waterproof or water resistant when the attachment element  102  is not electrically and/or mechanically connected as speakers and/or microphones may require one or more acoustic ports to allow sound to travel in and/or out. Moreover, beam-forming microphone configurations may be enabled by spacing multiple microphones on the attachment element  102  at greater distances than may be available in the electronic device  101 . 
     By way of a sixth example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more storage devices, such as data storage devices. Such storage devices may be removable (such as a secure digital card or other removable storage device) and/or fixed. In this way, different attachment elements  102  may contain different data (such as different music playlists, map data, confidential data, and/or other such data). In some cases, attachment elements  102  storing music may be bought as an album and/or a user may store their own music. In various cases, map data may be protected to only work with a particular application or component on the electronic device  101 . In one or more cases, confidential data may be unlocked by a password or a biometric signature (such as a fingerprint, photoplethysmographic data, or other biometric). In some cases, personal passwords such as passwords to enter websites, unlock a computer, use near field communication payment, unlock a car or house, and so on) may be stored by an attachment element  102 . 
     By way of a seventh example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more user interface controls. In some cases, an attachment element  102  may extend the input and/or output functionality of the electronic device  101  by offering controls that may not fit and/or may not be included in the electronic device  101 . Such controls may be in the form of one or more buttons, capacitive touch sensors, slide switches (such as a ringer switch), force-sensitive pads, and/or any other controls. Functionality of such controls may include volume controls, media controls, starting and/or stopping of data logging (e.g. biometric data, location data, and/or other data), and/or any other user interface functionality. 
     By way of an eighth example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more sensors. Such sensors may extend electronic device  101  functionality by including specialized sensors not included in the electronic device  101 . Examples of such sensors may include one or more inertial sensors, compasses, pressure sensors, biometric sensors, fingerprint readers, thermometers, ultraviolet sensors, cameras, radiation detectors, breathalyzers, and/or any other such sensors. Some sensors, such as thermometers or compasses, may experience improved operation when removed from thermal and/or magnetic sources contained within the electronic device  101 . Other sensors (such as photoplethysmographic biometric sensors) may experience improved operation specific placement (e.g. the underside of a user&#39;s wrist) which may not be accessible from electronic device  101 . In some cases, sensors (e.g. galvanic skin response sensors, electrocardiogram sensors, and/or other such sensors) may be contained within the electronic device  101  and electrodes associated with such may be included in the attachment element  102 . Some sensors, such as a camera may be too large to include in the electronic device  101  itself and may thus be located on the attachment element  102 . Other sensors, such as a radiation detector or a breathalyzer, may be useful to too few users to justify including in the electronic device  101  and may thus be included in the attachment element  102 . 
     By way of a ninth example, the electronic component  112  may be one or more charging components. Such charging components may extend the battery life of the electronic device  101  and/or the attachment element  102  by including ways to charge the electronic device  101  and/or the attachment element  102  during use. In some implementations, chargers such as solar cells may enable charging via solar energy. In other implementations, chargers such as kinetic chargers may enable charging via movement or vibration. In still other implementations, chargers such as thermal generators (such as a Peltier device) may enable charging via the thermal gradient between one or more parts of a user&#39;s body and the ambient temperature. 
     By way of a tenth example, the attachment element  102  may include one or more non-electrical components. Functionality of such components may not directly interact with the electronic device  101 . Examples of such may include a wallet to store money or other items, a pocket to store keys or other items, and so on. 
       FIG. 2A  is a side cross sectional view of a second embodiment of a system  200  for connecting an electronic device  201  to an attachment element  202  utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism  205  and  206 . 
     The system  200  includes an electronic device  201  and an attachment element  202 . The electronic device  201  may include a housing  203 , one or more electronic components  204 , a conductive element  209 , and a connection mechanism  205  that includes a plug  207 , notches  208 , and a contact  210 . The attachment element  202  may include a conductive element  211 , one or more electronic components  212 , and a connection mechanism  206  that includes a contact  215  and spring  214  loaded detents  213 . 
     The system  200  may be similar to the system  100  of  FIG. 1A  except that the connection mechanism  206  does not extend all the way through the attachment element  202  and the electrical connection between the electrical component  204  and the electrical component  212  may be formed by connection between the contacts  210  and  215  instead of the spring  214  loaded detents  213 . 
       FIG. 2B  illustrates the system  200  of  FIG. 2A  after the electromechanical snap connection mechanism  205  and  206  is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device  201  to the attachment element  202 . 
     Though the attachment element  202  is illustrated as an unbroken band, it is understood that this is an example. In various implementations, such a band may include one or more portions that may be connected by one or more connector mechanisms such as one or more buckles, snaps, magnets, and/or other such connector mechanisms without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Further, though the connection mechanism  205  is illustrated and described as having a single contact  210  and the connection mechanism  206  is illustrated and described as having a single contact  215 , it is understood that the connection mechanism  205  and/or the connection mechanism  206  may have any number of contacts  210  and  215  (such as one, four, or fifteen) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 3A  is a side cross sectional view of a third embodiment of a system  300  for connecting an electronic device  301  to an attachment element  302  utilizing an electromechanical threaded twist connection mechanism  305  and  306 . 
     The system  300  includes an electronic device  301  and an attachment element  302 . The electronic device  301  may include a housing  303 , one or more electronic components  304 , conductive elements  309 , and a connection mechanism  305  that includes threads  308  and contacts  310 . The attachment element  302  may include conductive elements  311 , one or more electronic components  312 , and a connection mechanism  306  that includes contacts  315  and threads  318 . 
     As contrasted with the system  200  of  FIG. 2A , the connection mechanism  305  may be connected to the connection mechanism  306  by engaging the threads  308  with the threads  318 . This may enable the electronic device  301  to “screw” onto the attachment element  302  and may cause the contacts  310  to contact the contacts  315 . 
       FIG. 3B  illustrates the system  300  of  FIG. 3A  after the electromechanical threaded twist connection mechanism  305  and  306  is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device  301  to the attachment element  302 . 
     Further, with reference again to  FIG. 3A , the attachment element  302  may include a connector  315  that is electrically coupled to the electronic component  312  via a conductive element  314 . The connector  315  may be any kind of a connector such as a universal serial bus connector and/or any other kind of connector. Such a connector  315  may be coupleable to one or more other electronic devices (such as a computing device, a power source, and so on) to the electrical component  312  for purposes of electrical connection, communication connection, charging, and so on. Further, by connecting the electric component  312  to the other electronic device, the connector  315  may be operable to indirectly connect the electronic device  301  to the other electronic device. 
     As illustrated, the connector  315  may be located at a gap in the attachment element  302  that includes connection mechanisms  316  and  317  and an aperture  317 . These elements may enable the connector  315  to be inserted into the aperture  317  and the gap to be closed by the connection of the connection mechanisms  316  and  317 . As also illustrated, the connection mechanisms  316  and  317  may be magnetic elements that each include one or more polarity portions (which may be dynamically controllable). The magnetic elements of the connection mechanisms  316  and  317  may be configured such that the connection mechanisms  316  and  317  attract, allowing the illustrated gap to be releasably sealed (as illustrated in  FIG. 3B ). 
       FIG. 4A  is a side cross sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a system  400  for connecting an electronic device  401  to an attachment element  402  utilizing an electromechanical toe-in snap connection mechanism  405 . 
     The system  400  includes an electronic device  401  and an attachment element  402 . The electronic device  401  may include a housing  403 , one or more electronic components  404 , a conductive element  409 , and contact  410 . The attachment element  402  may include a conductive element  411 , one or more electronic components  412 , and a connection mechanism  405  that includes prongs  406 . 
     As contrasted with the system  300  of  FIG. 3A , the connection mechanism  405  may be connected to the electronic device  401  itself by sliding one edge of the electronic device  401  under one of the prongs  406  and snapping the other edge of the electronic device  401  under the other of the prongs  406 . In this case, the electronic device  401  itself may be the connection mechanism of the electronic device  401  as the prongs  406  mechanically connect the electronic device  401  to the attachment element  402  by restraining the entire electronic device  401 . 
       FIG. 4B  illustrates the system  400  of  FIG. 4A  after the electromechanical toe-in snap connection mechanism  405  is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device  401  to the attachment element  402 . As illustrated, after connection, the contact  410  may contact the contact  413 . 
     Although the system  400  is illustrated and described as snapping at least part of the electronic device  401  into the connection mechanism  405  of the attachment element  402 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, at least a portion of the attachment element  402  may snap into a connection mechanism of the electronic device  401  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 5A  is a side cross sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a system  500  for connecting an electronic device  501  to an attachment element  502  utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism  505  and  506 . 
     The system  500  includes an electronic device  501  and an attachment element  502 . The electronic device  501  may include a housing  503 , one or more electronic components  504 , conductive elements  509 , and a connection mechanism  505  that includes a plug  507 , apertures  508 , and contacts  510 . The attachment element  502  may include a conductive element  511 , one or more electronic components  512 , and a connection mechanism  506  that includes prongs  514  with contacts  513 . 
     As contrasted with the system  400  of  FIG. 4A , the connection mechanism  505  may be connected to the connection mechanism  506  by pressing the plug  507  down to pry open the prongs  514 . The prongs  514  may then enter the apertures  508  such that the contacts  510  contact the contacts  513 . 
       FIG. 5B  illustrates the system  500  of  FIG. 5A  after the electromechanical snap connection mechanism  505  and  506  is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device  501  to the attachment element  502 . 
     Although the system  500  is illustrated and described as snapping a plug  507  of the connection mechanism  505  using prongs  514  of the connection mechanism  506 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element  502  may include a plug and the electronic device  601  may include prongs without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 6A  is a side cross sectional view of a sixth embodiment of a system  600  for connecting an electronic device  601  to an attachment element  602  utilizing an electromechanical twist connection mechanism  605  and  606 . 
     The system  600  includes an electronic device  601  and an attachment element  602 . The electronic device  601  may include a housing  603 , one or more electronic components  604 , a conductive element  609 , and a connection mechanism  605  that includes a plug  607 , pins  608 , and a contact  610 . The attachment element  602  may include a conductive element  611 , one or more electronic components  612 , and a connection mechanism  606  that includes a track  613  and a contact  615 . 
     As contrasted with the system  500  of  FIG. 5A , with reference to  FIG. 6B , the attachment element  602  may include aperture  614  that enable the pins  608  to be inserted into the track  613 . With reference to  FIG. 6C , the pins  608  may then be moved along the track  613  away from the apertures  614 , mechanically connecting the connection mechanism  606  to the connection mechanism  605  may be connected to the connection mechanism  606 . This may cause the contact  610  to contact the contact  615 . 
     As the pins  608  have moved along the track  613  away from the apertures  614 , the pins  608  may not be able to leave the track  613  unless the pins  608  are moved back along the track  613  to the apertures  614 , in this way, the electronic device  601  may be mechanically and electrically connected to the attachment element  602 . 
     Although the system  600  is illustrated and described the connection mechanism  605  including the pins  608  and the connection mechanism  606  including the track  613  and the apertures  614 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element  602  may include pins and the electronic device  601  may include one or more tracks and/or apertures without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 7A  is a side cross sectional view of a seventh embodiment of a system  700  for connecting an electronic device  701  to an attachment element  702  utilizing an electromechanical slide connection mechanism  705  and  706 . 
     The system  700  includes an electronic device  701  and an attachment element  702 . The electronic device  701  may include a housing  703 , one or more electronic components  704 , a conductive element  709 , and a connection mechanism  705  that includes a plug  707  and a contact  710 . The attachment element  702  may include a conductive element  711 , one or more electronic components  712 , and a connection mechanism  706  that includes a contact  713 . 
     As contrasted with the system  600  of  FIG. 6A , with reference to  FIG. 7B , the attachment element  702  may include aperture  714  that enable the plug  707  to be inserted by sliding or similar motion into the connection mechanism  706  from the side. With reference to  FIG. 7C , the plug  707  may then be moved into the connection mechanism  706 . This may cause the contact  710  to contact the contact  713 . As the plug  707  occupies the connection mechanism  706 , the electronic device  701  may be mechanically and electrically connected to the attachment element  702  until the plug  707  is slid back out of the connection mechanism  706 . 
     Although the system  700  is illustrated and described the connection mechanism  705  including the plug  707  that can be slid into the connection mechanism  706 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element  702  may include a plug that may be slid into the connection mechanism  705  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 8A  is a side cross sectional view of an eighth embodiment of a system  800  for connecting an electronic device  801  to an attachment element  802  utilizing an electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism. 
     The system  800  includes an electronic device  801  and an attachment element  802 . The electronic device  801  may include a housing  803 , one or more electronic components  804 , a conductive element  809 , and a magnetic contact element  810 . The attachment element  802  may include a conductive element  811 , one or more electronic components  812 , and a magnetic contact element  813 . 
     As contrasted with the system  700  of  FIG. 7A , the magnetic contact elements  810  and  813  may each include one or more polarized portions and one or more electrical contact portions. The polarized portions (which may be dynamically controllable) of the magnetic contact elements  810  and  813  may be configured to oppose such that the magnetic contact elements  810  and  813  attract each other. When this attraction causes the magnetic contact elements  810  and  813  to contact, the respective electrical contact portions may contact such that the electrical device  801  and the attachment element  802  are electrically and mechanically connected. In this way, the magnetic contact elements  810  and  813  may simultaneously be mechanical and electrical connection mechanisms. 
       FIG. 8B  illustrates the system  800  of  FIG. 8A  after the electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism of the magnetic contact elements  810  and  813  is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device  801  to the attachment element  802 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 8C , the electronic device  801  and the attachment element  802  may be indirectly connected mechanically and electrically by one or more intermediate electronic devices  820 . Such an intermediate electronic device may be any electronic device that includes at least one electrical component  823 , conductive elements  822 , and first and second magnetic contact elements  821  and  824 . 
     As illustrated, the electronic device  801  and the attachment element  802  may be indirectly connected mechanically and electrically by the intermediate electronic devices  820  by the magnetic contact element  810  mechanically and electrically coupling to the first magnetic contact element  821  and the magnetic contact element  813  mechanically and electrically coupling to the second magnetic contact element  824 . In this way, the electrical and mechanical connection between the electronic device  801  and the attachment element  802  may be formed via one or more modular components. 
     Although the system  800  is illustrated and described as including a single set of magnetic contact elements  810  and  813 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the any number of magnetic contact elements may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Further, although the system  800  is illustrated and described with respect to  FIG. 8C  as including a single intermediate component  820 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, any number of intermediate components may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 9A  is a side cross sectional view of a ninth embodiment of a system  900 A for connecting an electronic device  901  to an attachment element  902  utilizing an electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism. 
     Similar to the system  800  of  FIG. 8A , the system  900 A includes an electronic device  901  and an attachment element  902 . The electronic device  901  may include a housing  903 , one or more electronic components  904 , a conductive element  909 , and a magnetic contact element  910 . The attachment element  902  may include a conductive element  911 , one or more electronic components  912 , and a magnetic contact element  913 . 
     As contrasted with the system  800  of  FIG. 8A , the attachment element  902  may include one or more additional magnetic contact elements  920  that may electrically and/or mechanically connect the attachment element  802  to one or more additional electronic devices  930 . Such additional electronic devices  930  may include a housing  926 , one or more electronic components  929 , a conductive portion  928 , and a magnetic contact  927 . 
     Although the system  900 A is illustrated and described as having two additional magnetic contact elements  920 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element may include any number of additional magnetic contact elements  920  such as one, three, or thirty) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Further, although the magnetic contact elements  920  are illustrated and described as magnetic contact elements, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, any mechanical and/or electrical connection mechanism may be utilized to connect additional electronic devices to the attachment element  902 . 
       FIG. 9B  is a side cross sectional view of a first alternative version  900 B of the ninth embodiment of the system  900 A of  FIG. 9A . Instead of additional electronic devices  930 , one or more magnetic contact elements  920  may be utilized to mechanically and/or electrically connect one or more additional attachment elements  922  (which may be made of hard, form-fitting materials, soft materials such as rubber, and/or any other such materials) to the attachment element  902 . Such additional attachment elements  922  may include one or more electronic components  925 , a conductive element  924 , and a magnetic contact element  923 . 
     Further, although the additional attachment element  922  is illustrated and described as having magnetic contact elements  923  for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to the attachment element  902 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, additional attachment elements  922  may each have additional connection mechanisms for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to one or more additional connection mechanisms and/or additional electronic components. In such cases, attachment mechanisms and/or electronic devices may be stacked in sequence and may be electrically and/or mechanically connected to additional attachment elements  922 . 
     Additionally, although the additional attachment element  922  is illustrated and described as having magnetic contact elements  923  for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to the attachment element  902  and the attachment element  902  is illustrated and described as having magnetic contact elements  920  for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to the attachment element  902 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, additional attachment elements  920  and/or attachment element  902  may each have various connection mechanisms for electrically (such as via electrical copper, copper and/or other contacts, wirelessly such as via Bluetooth or other wireless communication technology, optical signals, acoustic signals, magnetic induction, and so on) and/or mechanically (such as one or more magnets, mechanical snaps, electro-magnetic connectors, Velcro, and/or other such connectors) connecting to the attachment element  902 , the electronic device  901 , one or more additional connection mechanisms, and/or additional electronic components in a variety of series, parallel, and/or otherwise arrangements. In such cases, attachment mechanisms and/or electronic devices may be stacked in sequence and may be electrically and/or mechanically connected to one or more of each other. 
     Moreover, though the additional attachment element  922  is illustrated as an entire band that does not couple to the electronic device  901 , it is understood that this is an example. In some implementations, additional attachment elements  922  may comprise segments of a band that may be attached to the attachment element  902  (and/or the electronic device  901  such as where a group of segments is utilized instead of the attachment element  902 ) in a single and/or multiple layers in a variety of positions (such as where attachment elements  922  and/or  902  have various contacts disposed in a variety of positions on one or more sides). In various implementations, additional attachment elements  922  may or may not electrically and/or mechanically connect to the electronic device  901  in addition to the attachment element  902 . In some implementations, the placement and/or number of electrical and/or mechanical connectors on additional attachment elements  922 , the attachment element  902 , and/or the electronic device  901  may function to limit the number of these items that may be coupled together and/or which out of a group of these items may be coupled together at a particular time. 
     In various cases, the attachment element  902  and/or the additional attachment element  922  may be associated with one or more functions. In such cases, the attachment element  902  and/or the additional attachment element  922  may be color and/or otherwise coded to indicate such functions. In some cases, the attachment element  902  and/or the additional attachment element  922  may also be color and/or otherwise coded based on aesthetic considerations, to enable users to make a statement regarding personality, and so on. 
       FIG. 9C  is a top view of a second alternative version  900 C of the ninth embodiment of the system of  FIG. 9A . As compared with  900 B, instead of additional attachment elements  922  being wrapped and/or otherwise being arranged around the attachment element  902  the attachment elements  922  and/or the attachment element  902  may include one or more components (such as the additional magnetic contacts  920  and the magnetic contact elements  923 ) positioned on the sides of the attachment elements  922  and/or the attachment element  902 . As illustrated, such components may enable the attachment elements  922  to be electrically and/or mechanically connected to the attachment element  902  in a sideways configuration. 
     In some implementations, electrical and/or mechanical attachment of multiple attachment elements  902  and  922  may enable one or more combined functionalities. In some cases, such combined functionality may be enabled when at least one of the attachment elements  902  and/or  922  are electrically and/or mechanically attached to the electronic device  901 . However, in other cases such combined functionality may be enabled the attachment elements  902  and/or  922  are not electrically and/or mechanically attached to the electronic device  901 . Such combined functionality may be enabled from a plurality of various attachment elements  902  and/or  922 , multiple attachment elements  902  and/or  922  to be worn at one time by a user (and/or connected via contacts, wireless, connections and so on), or by a singular attachment element  902  and/or  922  with multiple functions. 
     By way of a first example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a microphone and speaker. Such a combination may enable telephone applications which may and/or may not be dependent on the electronic device  901  for wired and/or wireless connection and/or power. 
     By way of a second example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a microphone, speaker, and camera. Such a combination may enable one or more videoconferencing and/or other video call applications which may and/or may not be dependent on the electronic device  901  for wired and/or wireless connection and/or power. 
     By way of a third example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a global positioning system, a battery, and data storage. Such a combination may enable applications such as location tracking of a jogger. In some cases, such an application may be independent of the electronic device  901 , though data may be uploaded to the electronic device  901  when reconnected. 
     By way of a fourth example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a near field communication antenna and a fingerprint reader. Such a combination may enable applications such as a secure wallet which may and/or may not be dependent on the electronic device  901  for data and/or power. 
     By way of a fifth example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a near field communication antenna, data storage, and a battery. Such a combination may enable applications such as a portable wallet which may and/or may not be independent of the electronic device  901 . Financial information such as credit card information may be viewed and/or changed when reconnected to the electronic device  901  in some implementations. 
     By way of a sixth example, such combined functionality may include the combination of one or more biometric sensors, one or more output components (such as speakers, displays, light emitting diodes, and so on), and one or more wireless communication components (such as Win, 4G, and so on). Such a combination may enable integrated health monitoring devices. Such devices may be programmed with threshold sensor values (e.g. a hear rate level or other values) by a doctor and exceeding these thresholds may trigger doctor-approved instructions (e.g. “Please call your doctor”), set off an alert (e.g. waking a sleep apnea patient), and so on. Data may immediately be sent to a user&#39;s doctor, to emergency services, and so on via wireless communication. Application of such a device may be at a patient&#39;s home, in a hospital where vitals data may be continuously streamed for various patients (such as patients awaiting doctors in the emergency room), and so on. 
       FIG. 10A  is a side cross sectional view of a tenth embodiment of a system  1000  for connecting an electronic device  1001  to an attachment element  1002  utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism  1005  and  1006 . 
     Similar to the system  100  of  FIG. 1A , the system  1000  includes an electronic device  1001  and an attachment element  1002 . The electronic device  1001  may include a housing  1003 , one or more electronic components  1004 , conductive elements  1009 , and a connection mechanism  1005  that includes a plug  1007 , notches  1008 , contacts  1010 . The attachment element  1002  may include conductive elements  1011 , one or more electronic components  1012 , and a connection mechanism  1006  that includes spring  1014  loaded detents  1013 . 
     Contrasted with to the system  100  of  FIG. 1A , the system  1000  includes one or more electrically conductive holes  1015 . As illustrated, such electrically conductive holes  1015  may extend through the thickness of the attachment element  1002 . However, such electrically conductive holes  1015  may not extend through the width of the attachment element  1002  such that the attachment element  1002  is not separated into pieces. As such, the electrically conductive holes  1015  may allow passage through the attachment element  1002  while still electrically connecting the various portions of the conductive elements  1011 . 
       FIG. 10B  illustrates the system  1000  of  FIG. 10A  after a plug  1021  of one or more additional electronic devices  1016  is inserted into at least one of the electrically conductive holes  1015 . As illustrated, the additional electronic device  1016  may include a housing  1017 , one or more electronic components  1018 , a conductive portion  1019 , and a plug  1021  with a contact  1020 . 
     As illustrated, the plug  1021  may be tapered such that it may be inserted into and/or removed from the electrically conductive hole  1015  under the application of force, but may otherwise mechanically connect the additional electronic device  1016  to the attachment element  1002  absent the application of such force. Further, when the plug  1021  is inserted into the electrically conductive hole  1015 , the contact  1020  may contact the electrically conductive hole  1015 . 
     Further, although the attachment element  1002  is illustrated and described as having electrically conductive holes  1015  for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to additional electronic devices  1016 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment elements  1002  may each have other connection mechanisms for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to one or more additional electronic devices  1016 . 
     Further, although the system  1000  is illustrated and described as electrically and/or mechanically connecting two additional electronic devices  1016  to the attachment element  1002 , it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, any number of additional electronic devices  1016  may be so connected (such as one, three, or fifteen) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Additionally, although the various systems illustrated in  FIGS. 1A-10B  are illustrated and described above as utilizing various connection mechanisms, it is understood that these are examples. In various implementations, various connection mechanisms described herein and illustrated in the accompanying figures may be combined into a single implementation without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 11  is a flow chart illustrating a method  1100  for connecting a device to an attachment element utilizing a connection mechanism. This method may be performed utilizing any of the systems of  FIGS. 1A-10B . 
     The flow may begin at block  1101  and proceeds to block  1102  where a connection mechanism of at least one electronic device is engaged with a connection mechanism of at least one attachment device. 
     The flow then proceeds to block  1103  where the electronic device is mechanically attached to the attachment element utilizing the respective connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element. The flow then proceeds block  1104  where the electronic device is electrically attached to the attachment element utilizing the respective connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element. 
     Although the method  1100  is illustrated as including particular operations performed in a particular order, it is understood that this is an example. In various implementations, various orders of the same, similar, and/or different operations may be performed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, though the operations  1103  and  1104  of mechanically and electrically attaching the electronic device and attachment element are illustrated and described as distinct operations performed in a linear order, in various implementations such operations may be combined into a single, simultaneous operation. 
       FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating a method  1200  for disconnecting a device from an attachment element utilizing a connection mechanism. This method may be performed utilizing any of the systems of  FIGS. 1A-10B . 
     The flow may begin at block  1201  and proceeds to block  1202  where a connection mechanism of at least one electronic device is disengaged from a connection mechanism of at least one attachment device. 
     The flow then proceeds to block  1203  where the electronic device is mechanically detached from the attachment element utilizing the respective connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element. The flow then proceeds to block  1204  where the electronic device is electrically disconnected from the attachment element utilizing the respective connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element. 
     Although the method  1200  is illustrated as including particular operations performed in a particular order, it is understood that this is an example. In various implementations, various orders of the same, similar, and/or different operations may be performed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, though the operations  1203  and  1204  of mechanically detaching and electrically disconnecting the electronic device from the attachment element are illustrated and described as distinct operations performed in a linear order, in various implementations such operations may be combined into a single, simultaneous operation. 
     As described above and illustrated in the accompanying figures, the present disclosure discloses systems and methods for electrically and mechanically connecting devices and attachment elements. One or more electronic devices and one or more attachment elements that include one or more electronic components may each include one or more connection mechanisms. The connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element may be engaged to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device and the attachment element. Such electrical connection may electrically couple the one or more electrical components of the attachment element to the electronic device. 
     In the present disclosure, the methods disclosed may be implemented as sets of instructions or software readable by a device. Further, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods disclosed are examples of sample approaches. In other embodiments, the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the method can be rearranged while remaining within the disclosed subject matter. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not necessarily meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented. 
     The described disclosure may be provided as a computer program product, or software, that may include a non-transitory machine-readable medium having stored thereon instructions, which may be used to program a computer system (or other electronic devices) to perform a process according to the present disclosure. A non-transitory machine-readable medium includes any mechanism for storing information in a form (e.g., software, processing application) readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). The non-transitory machine-readable medium may take the form of, but is not limited to, a magnetic storage medium (e.g., floppy diskette, video cassette, and so on); optical storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM); magneto-optical storage medium; read only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM); flash memory; and so on. 
     It is believed that the present disclosure and many of its attendant advantages will be understood by the foregoing description, and it will be apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction and arrangement of the components without departing from the disclosed subject matter or without sacrificing all of its material advantages. The form described is merely explanatory, and it is the intention of the following claims to encompass and include such changes. 
     While the present disclosure has been described with reference to various embodiments, it will be understood that these embodiments are illustrative and that the scope of the disclosure is not limited to them. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. More generally, embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure have been described in the context or particular embodiments. Functionality may be separated or combined in blocks differently in various embodiments of the disclosure or described with different terminology. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of the disclosure as defined in the claims that follow.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20131229
Publication Date: 20190730
Grant Date: 20190730
Priority Date: 20131229
Inventors: SHEDLETSKY, ANNA-KATRINA
DE JONG, ERIK G.
ROTHKOPF, FLETCHER R.
WEISS, SAMUEL
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G04G17/083", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6278", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6278", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/025", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6278", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 49958744