PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10448711-B2
Application Number: US-201715711878-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Accessory contacts

Abstract:
A first connector assembly may be connectable to a second connector assembly using a sliding attachment process, in which a front portion of the first connector assembly is inserted into an end of a slot in the second connector assembly and slides laterally along the slot until electrical contacts on the two connector assemblies are aligned. Electrical contacts of the first connector assembly may be biased proud to make contact with recessed electrical contacts in the second connector assembly. A retraction mechanism may be provided to retract the electrical contacts of the first connector assembly during lateral sliding. An interlock mechanism may be provided to prevent unwanted operation of the retraction mechanism.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A connector assembly for a first electronic device, the connector assembly comprising:
 a housing having a forward surface portion adapted to engage with a complementary connector assembly of a second electronic device, the forward surface portion of the housing having an opening therein; 
 an electrical contact; 
 a spring mechanism to apply a forward bias to the electrical contact; 
 a sled movably disposed within the housing, the sled being movable between a retracted position and an engaged position; and 
 a user-operable control to move the sled between the retracted position and the engaged position, at least a portion of the user-operable control extending outside the housing, 
 wherein the electrical contact is mounted on the sled such that when the sled is in the engaged position, a front portion of the electrical contact extends through the opening in the housing and when the sled is in the retracted position, the front portion of the electrical contact does not extend through the opening in the housing. 
 
     
     
       2. The connector assembly of  claim 1  wherein the user-operable control includes a slider that moves laterally relative to the housing. 
     
     
       3. The connector assembly of  claim 1  wherein the user-operable control includes a lever located at a rear end of the housing, the lever being movable in a plane transverse to a lateral plane. 
     
     
       4. The connector assembly of  claim 1  wherein the forward surface portion of the housing engages with the complementary connector assembly by sliding laterally into a slot of the complementary connector assembly. 
     
     
       5. The connector assembly of  claim 1  wherein the forward surface portion of the housing engages with the complementary connector assembly by plugging into a slot of the complementary connector assembly. 
     
     
       6. The connector assembly of  claim 1  wherein the forward surface portion of the housing forms a slot capable of receiving the complementary connector assembly using a lateral sliding engagement. 
     
     
       7. The connector assembly of  claim 1  wherein the first electronic device is an electronic watch band and the second electronic device is a watch body unit. 
     
     
       8. A connector assembly for a first electronic device, the connector assembly comprising:
 a housing having a forward surface portion adapted to slide laterally into a slot of a complementary connector assembly of a second electronic device, the forward surface portion of the housing having a plurality of openings therein; 
 a plurality of electrical contacts; 
 a spring mechanism to apply a forward bias to each of the electrical contacts; 
 a sled movably disposed within the housing, the sled being movable between a retracted position and an engaged position; and 
 a user-operable control to move the sled between the retracted position and the engaged position, at least a portion of the user-operable control extending outside the housing, 
 wherein the electrical contacts are mounted on the sled such that when the sled is in the engaged position, a front portion of each electrical contact extends through one of the openings in the housing and when the sled is in the retracted position, the front portions of the electrical contacts do not extend through the opening in the housing. 
 
     
     
       9. The connector assembly of  claim 8  wherein the user-operable control includes one of:
 a plunger located at a rear end of the housing; 
 a pull-tab located at a rear end of the housing; 
 a slider that moves laterally relative to the housing; 
 a rotary control; or 
 a lever located at a rear end of the housing, the lever being movable in a plane transverse to a lateral plane. 
 
     
     
       10. The connector assembly of  claim 8  wherein the spring mechanism includes a cartridge assembly having a curved beam disposed therein, the curved beam being connected at one end to a rear portion of the electrical contact. 
     
     
       11. The connector assembly of  claim 10  wherein the cartridge assembly has a plurality of curved beams disposed therein, each curved beam being electrically isolated from each other curved beam, and one end of each curved beam being connected to a rear portion of a different one of the electrical contacts. 
     
     
       12. The connector assembly of  claim 8  wherein the first electronic device is an electronic watch band and the second electronic device is a watch face unit.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/399,059, filed Sep. 23, 2016, and also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/399,099, filed Sep. 23, 2016. The disclosures of both applications are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. 
     This application is related to U.S. application Ser. No. 15/711,853 filed on Sep. 21, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Electronic devices often include one or more connector receptacles though which they may provide and receive power and data. This power and data may be conveyed over cables that may include a connector insert at each end of a cable. The connector inserts may be inserted into receptacles in the communicating electronic devices. 
     In other electronic systems, contacts on a first electronic device may be in direct physical and electrical contact with contacts on a second electronic device without the need for an intervening cable. In such systems, a connector insert may be formed as part of the first electronic device, while a connector receptacle may be formed as part of the second electronic device. 
     The electrical contacts on these directly connecting connector inserts and connector receptacles may be substantially formed on outside surfaces of the electronic devices. These surfaces may come into direct contact to form electrical connections between electronic devices to convey power and data. 
     Like other connector systems, there are potential drawbacks to this arrangement. For example, these connectors may be large. Since electronic devices are becoming ever smaller, the presence of large connectors may be non-optimal. Also, since the contacts are at the surfaces of the electronic devices, they may be exposed to corroding fluids that may shorten device lifespan. Since the electronic devices come into physical contact, the connector contacts may become damaged when a connection is formed. Electronic devices may also have fluids spilled on them or they may become partially submerged. Resulting moisture leakage may damage the electronic device housing the connector assembly. Also, connector systems may be manufactured in the millions of units. Accordingly, any simplification in the assembly process may noticeably reduce manufacturing costs. Further, a failure of the connector system may render an entire electronic device inoperable, so reliability may be important for maintaining customer satisfaction. 
     Thus, what is needed are connector assemblies that may be space efficient, have a high corrosion resistance, are difficult to damage, reduce or prevent moisture leakage into an electronic device housing the connector assembly, are readily assembled, and are reliable. 
     SUMMARY 
     Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention may provide connector assemblies that may be space efficient, have a high corrosion resistance, are difficult to damage, reduce or prevent moisture leakage into an electronic device housing the connector assembly, are readily assembled, and are reliable. Connector assemblies described herein may be used to connect a first electronic device to a second electronic device. Some embodiments of the present invention may be adapted for environments where corrosion of electrical contacts of a connector assembly is a particular concern, such as where the electronic device is expected to be routinely exposed to moisture. In such environments, it may be desirable to provide a water-resistant seal around the electrical contacts when they are connected. Some embodiments of the present invention may also be adapted for environments where the connection between the electronic devices may be subject to various mechanical stresses. 
     For example, in some embodiments of the present invention, a first electronic device may be a watch band, and a second electronic device may be a watch body unit. The watch body unit may include a user interface (e.g., display, speakers, user input controls such as a touchscreen, button, dial, etc.), and supporting electronic components, such as processors, memory, battery, sensors, wireless communication circuitry, and the like. The watch band may include active electronic components (e.g., sensors, battery, processor, etc.) that may interoperate with the supporting electronics of the watch body unit to augment or enhance functionality of the watch body unit. the watch body unit may include a connector receptacle, e.g., a slot formed in a top or bottom edge surface of the watch body unit, and the watch band may include a connector insert, e.g., a lug at the end of the watch band that may be inserted into the slot of the watch body unit. 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, a first connector assembly (e.g., a connector insert) may be connectable to a second connector assembly (e.g., a connector receptacle) using a sliding attachment process, in which a front portion of the first connector assembly is inserted into an end of a slot in the second connector assembly and slides laterally along the slot until electrical contacts on the two connector assemblies are aligned. In some embodiments, the electrical contacts of the second connector assembly may be slightly recessed into the housing of the second connector assembly and fixed in position, while the electrical contacts of the first connector assembly may be biased proud so that when the connector assemblies are in alignment, the electrical contacts of the first connector assembly may enter the recess and make contact with the electrical contacts of the second connector assembly. Such biasing may be achieved using pogo pins or curved contacts with a spring force that establishes a forward bias. 
     It may be desirable to protect the electrical contacts of the first connector assembly against damage that may occur during lateral sliding of the connector assemblies. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first connector assembly may include a retraction mechanism that can be operated to retract the electrical contacts of the first connector assembly into a “retracted” position during the sliding attachment (or detachment) process and to extend the electrical contacts forward into an “engaged” position when the first connector assembly is aligned with the second connector assembly so that electrical contact can be established and maintained. In the retracted position, the front ends of the electrical contacts may be flush with or recessed within the surface of the housing of the first connector assembly, so that the electrical contacts need not touch or rub against the surface of the second connector assembly during lateral sliding. In the engaged position, the front ends of the electrical contacts may extend beyond the front surface of the housing of the first connector assembly, allowing electrical contact with corresponding contacts of the second connector assembly to be maintained. In some embodiments, the first connector assembly may also include an interlock mechanism to prevent lateral sliding of the first connector assembly while the electrical contacts are in the engaged position. The interlock mechanism may also inhibit the electrical contacts from spontaneously moving into or out of the extended position; a user-operable eject mechanism may be provided to allow a user to release the interlock. 
     Some embodiments of the present invention may rely on pressure from the complementary assembly to press the electrical contacts into the retracted position during insertion; a forward bias on the electrical contacts may automatically push them into contact once alignment is established. While this approach may be effective, repeated insertion and removal may result in wear on the electrical contacts due to friction. 
     Accordingly, some embodiments of the present invention may incorporate a retraction mechanism to allow a user to move the electrical contacts between the engaged and retracted positions. For example, the electrical contacts of a connector assembly (e.g., a connector insert) may be attached to a movable sled mounted within the housing of the connector assembly. The sled may be movable along an axis perpendicular to the front face of the connector assembly between a retracted position, in which the electrical contacts are protected by the housing of the connector assembly, and an engaged position, in which the electrical contacts extend far enough outside the housing to make contact with electrical contacts in a complementary connector assembly (e.g., a connector receptacle). A user-operable sled control mechanism may be provided to allow the user to move the sled between the extended and retracted positions. In operation, a user may ensure the sled is in the retracted position before inserting the first connector assembly into a complementary connector assembly. Once the connector assemblies are aligned, the user may operate the sled control mechanism to move the sled into the engaged position. In some embodiments, when the sled is moved into the engaged position, an interlock mechanism may engage to prevent unintended movement of the sled out of the engaged position. To decouple the connector assemblies, the user may operate an eject button or the like to release the interlock mechanism. In some embodiments, releasing the interlock mechanism may result in the sled automatically returning to the retracted position; in other embodiments, the user may manually move the sled to the retracted position. The user may then slide the connector assemblies apart. 
     A number of different sled control mechanisms may be implemented. For example, a plunger or the like at the rear of the sled may be provided to push the sled forward into the engaged position. In operation, the user may slide the connector assembly into alignment with a complementary connector assembly, then push on the plunger, which operates to push the sled forward into the engaged position. In some embodiments, pushing the sled into the engaged position may automatically engage an interlock, and a return spring may automatically retract the sled into the retracted position when the interlock is released. In other embodiments, the user may be able to manually retract the sled, e.g., by pulling on the plunger. 
     As another example, a movable sled may be mechanically coupled to an exposed pull-tab or other exposed area. In operation, the user may slide the connector assembly into alignment with a complementary connector assembly, then pull on the exposed pull-tab, which operates the lever to push the sled forward into the engaged position. In some embodiments, pushing the sled into the engaged position may automatically engage an interlock, and a return spring may automatically retract the sled into the retracted position when the interlock is released. In other embodiments, the user may be able to manually retract the sled, e.g., by pushing in on the pull-tab. 
     As another example, a movable sled may be mechanically coupled to an external slider control, which may be movable in a direction transverse to the direction of travel of the sled. The slider control may be located on a side or end surface of the connector assembly. In operation, the user may slide the connector assembly into alignment with a complementary connector assembly, then slide the slider control from an “open” position to a “closed” position to move the sled forward into the engaged position. In some embodiments, moving the sled into the engaged position may automatically engage an interlock, and a return spring may automatically retract the sled into the retracted position when the interlock is released. In other embodiments, the user may be able to manually retract the sled, e.g., by sliding the slider control in the opposite direction. 
     As another example, a movable sled may be mechanically coupled to a rotary control (e.g., a set screw or the like). In operation, the user may turn the rotary control from an open” position to a “closed” position to move the sled forward into the engaged position and may turn the rotary control in the opposite direction to move the sled backward into the retracted position. In some embodiments, an interlock mechanism may be provided to prevent movement of the sled while the connector assembly is being inserted into or removed from a complementary connector assembly. 
     In still other embodiments of the present invention, a sliding engagement path may be replaced with a plug-in path, in which a first connector assembly is designed as a plug that may be inserted into a sleeve extending forward from a second connector assembly. This may simplify the mechanical design of the connector assemblies, as retracting the electrical contacts to avoid damage during sliding may not be needed. Bayonet latches or the like may be used to hold the first connector assembly in contact with the second connector assembly. 
     In any of these and other embodiments of the present invention, water-resistant sealing may be provided around the contacts. For example, connector assembly housing or portions thereof may be covered with rubber or other pliable and water-resistant materials. In some embodiments, forward portions of the electrical contacts may be surrounded by a covering of rubber or other pliable and water-resistant materials. 
     In various embodiments of the present invention, the components of the connector assemblies may be formed in various ways of various materials. For example, conductive portions may be formed by stamping, metal-injection molding, machining, micro-machining, 3-D printing, or other manufacturing process. The conductive portions may be formed of stainless steel, steel, copper, copper titanium, phosphor bronze, palladium, palladium silver, or other material or combination of materials. They may be plated or coated with nickel, gold, or other material. The nonconductive portions, such as the housings and other portions, may be formed using injection or other molding, 3-D printing, machining, or other manufacturing process. The nonconductive portions may be formed of silicon or silicone, Mylar, Mylar tape, rubber, hard rubber, plastic, nylon, elastomers, liquid-crystal polymers (LCPs), ceramics, or other nonconductive material or combination of materials. The transformer cores may be formed of ferrite material, such as a soft ferrite. The transformer cores may be sintered or subjected to other manufacturing steps. The flexible circuit boards may be replaced with printed circuit boards (PCBs) or other appropriate substrates. 
     Embodiments of the present invention may provide connector assemblies that may be located in, or may connect to, various types of devices, such as portable computing devices, tablet computers, desktop computers, laptops, all-in-one computers, wearable computing devices, cell phones, smart phones, media phones, storage devices, keyboards, covers, cases, portable media players, navigation systems, monitors, power supplies, adapters, remote control devices, chargers, and other devices. These connector assemblies may provide interconnect paths for signals that are compliant with various standards such as Universal Serial Bus (USB), High-Definition Multimedia Interface® (HDMI), Digital Visual Interface (DVI), Ethernet, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt™, Lightning, Joint Test Action Group (JTAG), test-access-port (TAP), Directed Automated Random Testing (DART), universal asynchronous receiver/transmitters (UARTs), clock signals, power signals, and other types of standard, non-standard, and proprietary interfaces and combinations thereof that have been developed, are being developed, or will be developed in the future. In various embodiments of the present invention, these interconnect paths provided by these connectors may be used to convey power, ground, signals, test points, and other voltage, current, data, or other information. 
     Various embodiments of the present invention may incorporate one or more of these and the other features described herein. A better understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention may be gained by reference to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  shows a simplified cross-section view of a connector interface system incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 1B  shows a perspective view of example electronic devices implementing a connector interface according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2A  shows another simplified cross-section view of a connector interface system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2B  shows a perspective view of example electronic devices implementing a connector interface according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  shows a simplified transverse cross-section view of the connector interface system of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 4  shows a cross section view of a portion of a connector interface system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  shows another cross section view of the connector interface system of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 6  shows an example of a cartridge according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  shows an example of a beam geometry according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  shows a perspective view of a cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  shows a side view of a cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  shows an example of stages in forming a pogo pin assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of a pogo pin assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  shows a cutaway view of a pogo pin assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 13A and 13B  show simplified cross-section views of a connector interface system incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13C  shows an example application of connector interface system for connecting a watch band to a watch body unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  shows a cross-section view of a connector interface system with electrical contacts in a retracted position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  shows a cutaway view of a connector interface system with electrical contacts in a retracted position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16  shows a cross-section view of a connector interface system with electrical contacts in an engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  shows a cutaway view of a connector interface system with electrical contacts in an engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 18-20  show features of an interlock mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 21  shows an exploded view of a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 22A and 22B  show simplified cross-section views of a connector interface system incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 22C  shows an example application of connector interface system for connecting a watch band to a watch body unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 23  shows a simplified side view of a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 24A and 24B  show simplified cross-section views of a connector interface system incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 24C  shows an example application of connector interface system for connecting a watch band to a watch body unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 25  shows a simplified cross-section view of a connector interface system in a retracted position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 26  shows a simplified cross-section view of a connector interface system in an engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 27  shows an exploded view of a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 28  shows a simplified cutaway view of a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 29-32  illustrate operation of an interlock mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 33  shows a simplified cutaway views of a connector assembly in a retracted position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 34  shows a simplified cutaway views of a connector assembly in an engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 35  shows another simplified cutaway view of the connector assembly of  FIGS. 33 and 34 . 
         FIGS. 36 and 37  show additional views of a sled for a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 38  shows an additional view of a slider bar for a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 39  shows an assembly process that may be used to assemble a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 40 and 41  show additional details of an interlock mechanism that may be included in a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 42  shows a simplified cutaway view of a connector assembly in a retracted position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 43  shows a simplified cutaway view of a connector assembly in an engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 44  is a cross section view showing additional details of the interlock mechanism. 
         FIG. 45  shows a simplified cutaway view of a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention 
         FIG. 46  shows a simplified cross section view of the connector assembly of  FIG. 45 . 
         FIGS. 47A and 47B  show simplified side cross-section views of a connector interface system incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 47C  shows an example application of connector interface system for connecting a watch band to a watch body unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 48  shows a simplified cutaway view of a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 49  shows an example of a connector interface system using a plug-type connection according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 50  shows a side cross-section view of a connector interface system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 51  shows another side cross-section view of a connector interface system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1A  shows a simplified cross-section view of a connector interface system  100  incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and  FIG. 1B  shows a perspective view of example electronic devices implementing connector interface  100 . Connector interface system  100  includes a first connector assembly  102  and a second connector assembly  104  that slidably engages with first connector assembly  102 , as indicated by arrow  106 . First connector assembly  102  may include a housing  110  and one or more electrical contacts  112  arranged at a forward surface  114  of first connector assembly  102 . Second connector assembly  104  may include a housing  120  and one or more electrical contacts  122  arranged near a forward surface  124  of second connector assembly  104 . Electrical contacts  122  may be located within recesses  126  so that they are not flush with forward surface  124 . Second connector assembly  104  may also include a slot  128  for accepting and guiding first connector assembly  102  into a connected position. 
     In some embodiments, first connector assembly  102  may be incorporated into a first electronic device and second connector assembly  104  may be incorporated into a second electronic device. A number of different electronic devices may be used.  FIG. 1B  shows an example embodiment in which the first electronic device is a watch band  140  and the second electronic device is a watch body unit  150 . Watch body unit  150  may include a user interface (e.g., display, speakers, user input controls such as a touchscreen, button, dial, etc.), and supporting electronic components, such as processors, memory, battery, sensors, wireless communication circuitry, and the like. Watch band  140  may include active electronic components (e.g., sensors, battery, processor, etc.) that may interoperate with the supporting electronics of watch body unit  150  to augment or enhance functionality of watch body unit  150 . Watch body unit  150  may include a second connector assembly  104  that includes a slot formed in a top or bottom edge surface of the watch body unit, and watch band  140  may include a first connector assembly  102  that may be formed, e.g., as a lug at the end of watch band  140  that may be inserted into the connector slot of watch body unit  150 . 
     First connector assembly  102  may be inserted at one end of slot  128  and may slide laterally in the direction indicated by arrow  106  until electrical contacts  112  are aligned with electrical contacts  122 . 
       FIG. 2A  shows a simplified cross-section view of connector interface system  100  in a position where electrical contacts  112  are aligned with electrical contacts  122  according to an embodiment of the present invention, and  FIG. 2B  shows a perspective view of example electronic devices implementing connector interface  100 . In this position, electrical contacts  112  may be pushed forward, as indicated by arrows  206 , so that the forward ends of electrical contacts  112  extend into recesses  126  and make contact with electrical contacts  122 , allowing electrical power and/or information/carrying signals to be exchanged between the connector assemblies. 
       FIG. 3  shows a simplified transverse cross-section view of connector interface system  100  in the position of  FIG. 2 . In some embodiments, forward surface  114  of first connector assembly  102  may have a rounded profile as shown, and forward surface  124  of second connector assembly  102  may have a complementary concave profile. The absence of sharp corners may help to prevent damage in situations where first connector assembly  102  may be repeatedly inserted and removed; however, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to any particular shape. 
     In connector interface system  100 , recessed electrical contacts  122  of second connector assembly  104  may be protected from damage during sliding of connector assembly  102  by virtue of being recessed. Electrical contacts  112  may be retractable to prevent damage during sliding. Many different techniques may be used to provide retractable electrical contacts  112 . Examples will now be described. 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, a spring force applied to electrical contacts  112  may provide a forward bias that causes the front ends of electrical contacts  112  to extend beyond forward edge  114  of housing  110 . The spring force may be overcome by pressure applied to electrical contacts  112 , thereby retracting electrical contacts  112  and allowing lateral sliding of connector assembly  102 . This pressure may be applied by forward surface  124  of second connector assembly  120 , and the front ends of electrical contacts  112  and surrounding material may be shaped to minimize damage. 
       FIG. 4  shows a cross section view of a portion of a connector interface system  400  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector interface system  400  may include a first connector assembly  402 , which may be an implementation of first connector assembly  102  of  FIG. 1A , and a second connector assembly  404 , which may be an implementation of second connector assembly  104  of  FIG. 1B . Second connector assembly  404  may include a slot  406  to accommodate first connector assembly  402  and electrical contacts  408 , which may be fixedly located and slightly recessed (e.g., by 0.1 to 0.3 mm) from the surface of slot  406 . 
     First connector assembly  402  may include housing  410  and electrical contacts  412  that extend through forward surface  414  of housing  410 . In some embodiments, forward surface  414  of housing  410  (and other surfaces as desired) may be coated with a compressible elastic material  416 . Compressible elastic material  416  may be, e.g., rubber, or any material that has the properties of being pliable or deformable and resilient. In some embodiments, compressible elastic material  416  may also have limited liquid permeability, e.g., to provide a water-resistant seal between connector assembly  400  and second connector assembly  404 , which may help to protect electrical contacts  412  and electrical contacts  408  from corrosion if the electronic devices are exposed to moisture during operation. 
     Electrical contacts  412  may be connected to beams  420 , which may be held within a cartridge  422  to prevent undesired movement. Beams  420  may be made of an electrically conductive and mechanically resilient material, and the S curves of beams  420  may provide a spring force that biases contacts  412  forward. The spring force of beams  420  may be overcome by applying pressure to the forward ends of electrical contacts  412 , thereby retracting electrical contacts  412  into housing  410 . The rear ends of beams  420  may be connected to a flexible printed circuit board (not shown) or other electrically active component of an electronic device that incorporates connector assembly  400 . 
       FIG. 5  shows first connector assembly  402  sliding into connector assembly  404 . As shown. the wall of slot  406  may compress elastic material  416  and may also press on the forward portion of electrical contacts  412 . In some embodiments, the front surfaces of electrical contacts  412  may be rounded or sloped (e.g., as shown) to allow the edge of connector assembly  404  to compress electrical contacts  412  as connector assembly  402  slides into slot  406 . When electrical contacts  412  become aligned with electrical contacts  408 , the spring force provided by beams  420  may push electrical contacts  412  forward to make contact with electrical contacts  408 . In some embodiments, the recess depth for electrical contacts  408  may be less than 1 mm, and the travel range of electrical contacts  412  may be similarly small. 
     The geometry of beams  420  and cartridge  422  may be modified, as long as a spring force is provided.  FIG. 6  shows an example of a cartridge  600  according to another embodiment of the present invention. Cartridge  600  may be used, for example, in place of cartridge  422  of  FIG. 4 . Cartridge  600  may include one or more electrical contacts  612 , each of which may be connected to a beam  620 , which may have a C-shape or S-shape. Although only one beam is visible, it is to be understood that each contact  612  may have its own beam  620 , and the beams may be in different parallel planes so they do not collide with each other, allowing for a laterally compact design. Rear end  624  of beam  620  may be directed out one side of cartridge  600  and may provide a barb to facilitate electrical connections to a flexible printed circuit board or other electrically active component of an electronic device. In some embodiments, the rear ends of all beams may be directed out the same side of cartridge  600 , and this may facilitate making connections to multiple electrical contacts  612 . 
       FIG. 7  shows another example of a beam geometry according to an embodiment of the present invention. An electrical contact  712  (which may be similar to electrical contact  112  or  412 ) is connected to a beam  720 , e.g., by riveting. Like other beams described above, beam  720  may be made of an electrically conductive and mechanically resilient material and shaped to provide a spring force that creates a forward bias for electrical contact  712 . Barb  722  may extend from the rear end of beam  720  to facilitate forming electrical connections to a flexible printed circuit board or other electrically active component of an electronic device. 
       FIGS. 8 and 9  show an example of a cartridge assembly  800  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 8  shows a perspective view and  FIG. 9  shows a side view. Cartridge assembly  800  may incorporate, for example, two beams  720  with connected electrical contacts  712 . Beams  720  may be disposed within a cartridge  822  such that the forward ends of electrical contacts  712  are exposed through the housing of cartridge  822 . Barbs  722  may be connected to electrically conductive regions of printed circuit board  840 , which may be, for example, a flexible printed circuit board. Printed circuit board  840 , which may be, e.g., a flexible printed circuit board, may be electrically connected to other components of an electronic device. Cartridge assembly  800  may be inserted into a connector housing, similarly to cartridge  422  of  FIG. 4 . 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, a forward bias on the electrical contacts of a connector assembly may be provided using pogo pin assemblies.  FIG. 10  shows an example of stages in forming a pogo pin assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. At stage  1000 , a pogo pin  1002  is provided. Pogo pin  1002  may include a generally cylindrical conductive core  1004 . The forward end  1005  of conductive core  1004  may be rounded similarly to electrical contacts described above. A spring  1006  may be disposed around conductive core  1004 , and an insulating casing  1008  may be provided around spring  1006 . Spring  1006  may provide a forward bias that may be overcome by pressing on forward end  1005  of conductive core  1004 , which may retract conductive core  1004  into casing  1008  and create electrical contact between conductive core  1004  and rear conductor  1010 , which may be fixedly mounted in casing  1008 . As shown at  1012 , the rear end of rear conductor  1010  may be connected to an insulated wire  1014 , e.g., by soldering or sintering. The other end of insulated wire  1014  may later be connected to other electrically active components of an electronic device (e.g., to a printed circuit board). As shown at  1020 , a mask plating  1022  may be wrapped around casing  1008  of pogo pin  1002 . As shown at  1030 , a low-pressure overmold  1032  may be formed around mask plating  1022  and the forward portion of insulated wire  1014 . As shown at  1040 , a mounting structure  1042  may be attached around pogo pin assembly  1030 . In some embodiments, mounting structure  1042  may be an insert-molded plastic form. Mounting structure  1042  may have an attached flexure  1044  (e.g., a spring) extending from a rear portion thereof. Flexure  1044  may connect to low-pressure overmold  1032 . As shown at  1050 , a cosmetic cap  1052  may be applied to the front of mounting structure  1042 . In some embodiments, cosmetic cap  1052  may be made of compressible elastic material (e.g., rubber) and may be water-resistant. Cosmetic cap  1052  may be shaped such that forward end  1005  of conductive core  1004  protrudes slightly through cosmetic cap  1052  when in its forward-biased position. Cosmetic cap  1052  may be secured in place using glue  1054  or other adhesive. 
       FIGS. 11 and 12  show additional views of completed pogo pin assembly  1050 .  FIG. 11  shows a perspective view, and  FIG. 12  shows a cutaway view. In some embodiments, one or more pogo pin assemblies  1050  may be used in place of cartridge  422  shown in  FIG. 4 . 
     In the embodiments described above, electrical contacts of a connector assembly may be biased proud, so that the forward ends of the electrical contacts extend outside the connector housing in the absence of other forces; when pressure is applied, the electrical contacts may retract into the housing when pressure is applied. However, with repeated attachment and detachment via lateral sliding (e.g., as shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 ), it is possible that damage to the electrical contacts may occur. Accordingly, some embodiments of the invention provide connector assemblies that include retraction mechanisms operable by a user to retract the electrical contacts into the housing (which may protect against damage during lateral sliding), and to extended the electrical contacts forward into an “engaged” position when alignment with a complementary connector assembly is achieved. Various retraction mechanisms may be provided. Some embodiments may also include interlock mechanisms to prevent lateral sliding of the connector assembly while the electrical contacts are in the engaged position and/or to prevent moving the electrical contacts into the engaged position during lateral sliding of the connector assembly. Examples will now be described. 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, a plunger may be provided to move the electrical contacts forward.  FIGS. 13A and 13B  show simplified cross-section views of a connector interface system  1300  incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 13C  shows an example application of connector interface system  1300  for connecting a watch band to a watch body unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector interface system  1300  may be generally similar to connector interface system  100  of  FIG. 1  and may include a first connector assembly  1302  (generally similar to connector assembly  102 ) and a second connector assembly  1304  (generally similar to connector assembly  104 ). First connector assembly  1302  may include a housing  1310  and one or more electrical contacts  1312  mounted on a sled  1314  that may be disposed within housing  1310 . Sled  1314  may be movable in a direction perpendicular to front surface  1316  of connector assembly  1302 .  FIG. 13A  shows sled  1314  in a retracted position, in which electrical contacts  1312  do not extend outside of housing  1310 . In some embodiments, electrical contacts  1312  may be flush with surface  1316 , and in other embodiments, electrical contacts  1312  may be retracted farther such that they do not extend all the way to surface  1316 . When sled  1314  is in the retracted position, connector assembly  1302  may slide laterally relative to connector assembly  1304  without risk of damage to electrical contacts  1312 .  FIG. 13B  shows sled  1314  in an engaged position. In this position, electrical contacts  1312  extend through housing  1310  and make contact with corresponding electrical contacts  1322  of second connector assembly  1304 . 
     To allow a user to move sled  1314  between its engaged and retracted positions, sled  1314  may be attached to a rear plunger  1330 , which may extend outside of housing  1310 . The user may press in on rear plunger  1330  (as indicated by arrow  1340 ) to move sled  1314  into the engaged position and may pull out on rear plunger  1330  to move sled  1314  into the retracted position. As shown in  FIG. 13C , in some embodiments where first connector assembly  1302  is implemented as a lug that connects a watch band  1350  to a watch body unit  1360 , rear plunger  1330  may be incorporated into watch band  1350 . 
       FIGS. 14-17  show views of a specific implementation of a connector interface system  1400  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector interface system  1400  may be generally similar to connector interface system  1300 , and may include first connector assembly  1402  (which may be similar to connector assembly  1302 ) and second connector assembly  1404  (which may be similar to connector assembly  1402 ).  FIG. 14  shows a cross-section view of connector interface system  1400  with the contacts of first connector assembly  1402  in a retracted position.  FIG. 15  shows a cutaway view of connector interface system  1400  with the contacts of first connector assembly  1402  in a retracted position.  FIG. 16  shows a cross-section view of connector interface system  1400  with the contacts of first connector assembly  1402  in an engaged position.  FIG. 17  shows a cutaway view of connector interface system  1400  with the contacts of first connector assembly  1402  in an engaged position. 
     Second connector assembly  1404  may include recessed electrical contacts  1422  as shown. Electrical contacts  1422  may be mounted in fixed positions, and a water-resistant seal may be applied around electrical contacts  1422  to prevent moisture from entering an electronic device in which second connector assembly  1404  is located. 
     First connector assembly  1402  may include electrical contacts  1412 , which may be implemented using pogo pin assemblies  1414  similar to those described above with reference to  FIGS. 10-12 . For example, pogo pin assemblies  1414  may include a cosmetic cap  1416 , which may be made of a compressible, elastic, water-resistant material to help provide a seal around electrical contacts  1412  and  1422  when the connector assemblies are engaged. A rear structure for pogo pin assembly  1414  may include an escape flexure  1430 . Escape flexure  1430  may be made of a resilient material and shaped to provide strain relief. Escape flexure  1430  may include a conductive material (e.g., inside an insulating layer) to support electrical connections to pogo pin assembly  1414 . In other embodiments, electrical contacts  1412  may be incorporated into a cartridge assembly, such as any of the cartridge assemblies described above with reference to  FIGS. 4-9 . 
     Pogo pin assembly  1414  and escape flexure  1430  may be mounted onto a movable sled  1436 . In some embodiments, springs  1438  may be provided to bias sled  1436  toward a retracted position (shown in  FIG. 14 ), and pressing forward on the rear of sled  1436  may overcome the spring force, allowing sled  1436  to move into the engaged position (shown in  FIG. 16 ). An interlock mechanism, described below, may be used to hold sled  1436  in the engaged position. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , in the retracted position, electrical contacts  1412  and cosmetic caps  1416  may be slightly recessed inside housing  1410 . The recess depth may be small (e.g., 0.1 to 0.3 mm). This may protect electrical contacts  1412  and cosmetic caps  1416  against damage during lateral sliding of connector assembly  1402  relative to connector assembly  1404 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 16 and 17 , in the engaged position, portions of electrical contacts  1412  and cosmetic caps  1416  (colored in red) may extend outside of housing  1410 . Accordingly, electrical contacts  1412  may make contact with recessed electrical contacts  1422 . In some embodiments, a forward bias provided pogo pin assembly  1414  may facilitate making electrical contact. For example, pogo pin assembly  1414  may be constructed such that the natural resting position is slightly forward of where contact will occur, so that pogo pin assembly  1414  presses electrical contact  1412  against electrical contact  1422 . The forward pressure may also assist in forming a tight seal between cosmetic cap  1416  and the surface of connector assembly  1404 , which may prevent moisture from entering the electrical connection area and potentially corroding electrical contacts  1412  and/or  1422 . 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, connector assembly  1402  may include an interlock mechanism  1440 . Interlock mechanism  1440  may help to hold sled  1436  in the engaged position against the force of springs  1438  and may also prevent lateral sliding of connector  1402  while sled  1436  is in the engaged position. Interlock mechanism  1440  may incorporate a mechanical interlock feature that automatically engages when sled  1436  reaches the engaged position to hold sled  1436  in place and an ejection control (e.g., a user-operable button) that may be used to release the interlock feature and allow sled  1436  to return to the retracted position. 
       FIGS. 18-20  show additional details of interlock mechanism  1440 . Shown in  FIG. 18  is a simplified side view of a portion of connector assembly  1402 , including sled  1436  and interlock mechanism  1440 . Sled  1436  may include a lockout post  1802  that extends forward from the front surface of the sled, e.g., between the electrical contacts. Interlock mechanism  1440  may include a lockout lever  1804 , one end of which may be rotatably coupled to a mounting post  1806  that is fixedly installed in housing  1410 . A portion of lockout mechanism  1440  may be connected to an interlock button  1808 . When interlock button  1808  is in a first position (e.g., a depressed position), free end  1810  of lockout lever  1804  may be positioned in front of the travel path of lockout post  1802 , blocking forward motion of sled  1436 . When interlock button  1808  is in a second position (e.g., a raised position), free end  1810  of lockout lever  1804  may move out of the way of lockout post  1802 , allowing sled  1436  to move forward into the engaged position. In some embodiments, interlock button  1808  may be biased toward the raised position, e.g., using springs. 
       FIG. 19  is a simplified top view further illustrating operation of interlock button  1808 . Shown at  1900  is interlock button  1808  in the first position, with free end  1810  of lockout lever  1804  obstructing motion of lockout tooth  1802 . Shown at  1920  is interlock button  1808  in the second position, with lockout lever  1804  no longer obstructing lockout post  1802 . In some embodiments, the travel distance of interlock button  1808  may be, e.g., 0.3 mm, and the travel distance of free end  1810  may be somewhat longer, e.g., 0.6 mm. Lockout lever  1804  may rotate through an angle of, e.g., 4.5 degrees. 
     In some embodiments, interlock button  1808  may be deployed on the forward portion of housing  1410 , which may be inserted into the slot of complementary connector assembly  1404 . Where this is the case, pressure from the surface of complementary connector assembly  1404  may hold interlock button  1808  in the first (depressed) position during lateral sliding, thereby keeping sled  1436  in its retracted position. In addition, if sled  1436  is in its engaged position, it may not be possible to press interlock button  1808 , and this may prevent attempts to insert connector assembly  1402  into connector assembly  1404  while sled  1436  is in its engaged position. In some embodiments, connector assembly  1404  may include a surface indentation that aligns with interlock button  1808 . This indentation may be placed such that when connector assembly  1404  and connector assembly  1402  are in alignment, interlock button  1808  is able to move into the second (raised) position, freeing sled  1436  to move forward. 
       FIG. 20  shows a simplified side cross section view of connector assembly  1402  with interlock mechanism  1440  in the retracted configuration at  2000  and the engaged configuration at  2010 . In the retracted configuration, interlock button  1808  is in its depressed position and lockout lever  1804  is down, blocking advancement of sled  1436  (e.g., by blocking advancement of lockout post  1802 , which is not shown in  FIG. 20 ). In the engaged configuration, interlock button  1808  is in its raised position and lever  1804  is up, allowing sled  1436  to advance into its engaged position. 
       FIG. 20  also shows an ejection mechanism that may be provided to ensure that sled  1436  is in its retracted position prior to sliding connector assembly  1402  out of engagement with complementary connector assembly  1404 . In some embodiments, the ejection mechanism may cooperate with the interlock mechanism. As shown, sled  1436  may include a movable tooth  2004 , which may be biased to press outward through the side of sled  1436 . In retracted configuration  2000 , sled tooth  2004  may be pressed inward by a protrusion  2006  in the inner surface of housing  1418 . In engaged configuration  2010 , sled tooth  2004  may deploy past protrusion  2006  and press outward into recess  2008 . The rear edge of sled tooth  2004  may be shaped to prevent sled  1436  from spontaneously moving backward from the engaged position. In some embodiments, an additional interlock feature  2012  may also engage when sled tooth  2004  is deployed. In some embodiments, additional interlock feature  2012  may prevent interlock button  1808  from being pressed inward while sled  1436  is in the engaged position. To disconnect connector assembly  1402 , a user may first press eject button  2014 , which may be mechanically connected such that pressing eject button  2014  retracts both sled tooth  2004  and additional interlock feature  2012 . This may allow sled  1436  to return to its retracted position. In some embodiments, spring  1438  (shown in  FIGS. 14 and 16 ) may push sled  1436  into the retracted position when eject button  2014  is pressed. Thereafter, the user may press interlock button  1808  (either directly or by pressing a release button that may be provided on connector assembly  1404  and arranged to apply pressure to interlock button  1808 ). Once interlock button  1808  is pressed, connector assembly  1402  may again laterally slide to allow its removal from connector assembly  1404 . 
       FIG. 21  shows an exploded view of connector assembly  1400  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector assembly  1400  may include housing  1410 , cosmetic caps  1416 , pogo pin assemblies  1414 , sled  1436  with return springs  1438  and backstop clips  2102 , escape flexes  1430 , and a printed circuit board  2104  (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board) to which pogo pin assemblies  1414  may be connected via escape flexes  1430 . Connector assembly  1400  may also include interlock components, such as interlock button  1808  (shown in two parts), lockout lever  1804  and mounting post  1806 , and sled tooth  2004  and associated mounting hardware  2016 . 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, motion of a sled carrying electrical contacts may be controlled using a lever mechanism, such that when the user pulls on a tab, the sled is pushed forward.  FIGS. 22A and 22B  show simplified cross-section views of a connector interface system  2200  incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector interface system  2200  may be generally similar to connector interface system  100  of  FIG. 1  and may include a first connector assembly  2202  (which may be generally similar to connector assembly  102 ) and a second connector assembly  2204  (which may be generally similar to connector assembly  104 ). First connector assembly  2202  may include a housing  2210  and one or more electrical contacts  2212  mounted on a sled  2214  that may be disposed within housing  2210 . Sled  2214  may be movable in a direction perpendicular to front surface  2216  of connector assembly  2202 .  FIG. 22A  shows sled  2214  in a retracted position, in which electrical contacts  2212  do not extend outside of housing  2210 . In some embodiments, electrical contacts  2212  may be flush with surface  2216 , and in other embodiments, electrical contacts  2212  may be retracted farther such that they do not extend all the way to surface  2216 . When sled  2214  is in the retracted position, connector assembly  2202  may slide laterally relative to connector assembly  2204  without risk of damage to electrical contacts  2212 .  FIG. 22B  shows sled  2214  in an engaged position. In this position, electrical contacts  2212  extend through housing  2210  and make contact with corresponding electrical contacts  2222  of second connector assembly  2204 . 
     To allow a user to move sled  2214  between its engaged and retracted positions, sled  2214  may be attached to a pull tab  2230  that extends outward through the rear of housing  2210 . The user may pull on pull tab  2230  (as indicated by arrow  2232 ) to operate lever  2234 , thereby moving sled  2214  into the engaged position and may push on pull tab  2230  to move sled  2214  into the retracted position. As shown in  FIG. 22C , in some embodiments where first connector assembly  2202  is implemented as a lug that connects a watch band  2250  to a watch body unit  2260 , pull-tab  2230  may be incorporated into watch band  2250 . 
       FIG. 23  shows a simplified side view of a specific implementation of a connector assembly  2302  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector assembly  2300  may be generally similar to connector assembly  2202 , with electrical contacts  2312  mounted on a sled  2314 , which may be moved by operating a pull tab  2330 . Electrical contacts  2312  may be implemented using a pogo pin assembly (e.g., as shown in  FIGS. 10-12 ). In some embodiments, a cartridge assembly (e.g., as shown in  FIGS. 4-9 ) may be used. Sled  2314  may be movable relative to shuttle  2332 . Shuttle return springs  2334  may bias shuttle  2332  toward sled  2314 , and sled return springs  2336  may bias sled  2314  toward shuttle  2332 . Capture plate  2340  may be fixedly connected to the housing (not shown) of connector assembly  2302 , and pull tab  2330  may pass through capture plate  2340  and connect to shuttle  2332 . Toggles  2342  may be generally square or triangular rigid bodies rotatably mounted to shuttle  2332 , e.g., using pins  2344 . One portion of the edge surface of each toggle  2342  may be in contact with capture plate  2340 , and another portion of the edge surface of each toggle  2342  may be in contact with a rear-facing surface of sled  2314 . A locking tooth  2350  may be mounted on shuttle  2332  and capable of engaging with locking window  2352  in the housing of connector assembly  2300 . The engagement mechanism can be similar to that described above with reference to  FIGS. 18-20 . 
     In operation, when a user pulls on pull tab  2330 , shuttle  2332  may be pulled toward capture plate  2340 . This motion may cause toggles  2342  to rotate about pins  2344 , pushing sled  2314  forward into the engaged position. Locking tooth  2350  of shuttle  2332  may engage with locking window  2352 , preventing sled  2314  from moving out of the engaged position. In some embodiments, a user may be able to operate an eject button, similar to that described above, to allow sled  2314  to move back to the retracted position. Accordingly, while sled  2314  is in its retracted position, the user may laterally slide connector assembly  2302  to align with a complementary connector assembly (which can be similar to connector assembly  2204  of  FIG. 22 ). Once the connector assemblies are aligned, the user may pull on pull tab  2330  to move sled  2314  into the engaged position. In some embodiments, lateral sliding of connector assembly  2300  can be prevented while sled  2314  is in the engaged position, e.g., using an interlock mechanism similar to examples described above. 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, motion of a sled carrying electrical contacts may be controlled using a slider mechanism, such that when the user slides a control laterally, the sled is pushed forward.  FIGS. 24A and 24B  show simplified cross-section views of a connector interface system  2400  incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector interface system  2400  may be generally similar to connector interface system  100  of  FIG. 1  and may include a first connector assembly  2402  (generally similar to connector assembly  102 ) and a second connector assembly  2404  (generally similar to connector assembly  104 ). First connector assembly  2402  may include a housing  2410  and one or more electrical contacts  2412  mounted on a sled  2414  that may be disposed within housing  2410 . Sled  2414  may be movable in a direction perpendicular to front surface  2416  of connector assembly  2402 . In  FIG. 24A , sled  2414  is shown in a retracted position, in which electrical contacts  2412  do not extend outside of housing  2410 . In some embodiments, electrical contacts  2412  may be flush with surface  2416 , and in other embodiments, electrical contacts  2412  may be retracted farther such that they do not extend all the way to surface  2416 . When sled  2414  is in the retracted position, connector assembly  2402  may slide laterally relative to connector assembly  2404  without risk of damage to electrical contacts  2412 . In  FIG. 24B , sled  2414  is shown in an engaged position. In this position, electrical contacts  2412  extend through housing  2410  and make contact with corresponding electrical contacts  2422  of second connector assembly  2404 . 
     To allow a user to move sled  2414  between its engaged and retracted positions, sled  2414  may be controlled using a slider control  2430  that may be exposed through housing  2410 . The user may slide control  2430  in one direction to move sled  2414  forward into the engaged position and in the other direction to move sled  2414  back into the retracted position. As with embodiments described above, lockout mechanisms may be incorporated to prevent accidental movement of sled  2414  and/or to prevent lateral sliding of connector assembly  2402  while sled  2414  is in the engaged position. As shown in  FIG. 24C , in some embodiments where first connector assembly  2402  is implemented as a lug that connects a watch band (not shown) to a watch body unit  2460 , slider control  2430  may be exposed through an inside surface of the lug or through a side surface of the lug (as shown below). 
       FIGS. 25 and 26  show a first slider configuration for a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 25  shows a simplified cross-section view of a connector interface system  2500  in a retracted position, and  FIG. 26  shows a simplified cross-section view of connector interface system  2500  in an engaged position. Connector interface system  2500  may be similar to connector interface system  2400  and may include a first connector assembly  2502  (which may be similar to connector assembly  2402 ) and a second connector assembly  2504  (which may be similar to connector assembly  2404 ). 
     Second connector assembly  2504  may include recessed electrical contacts  2522  as shown. Electrical contacts  2522  may be mounted in fixed positions, and a water-resistant seal may be applied around electrical contacts  2522  to prevent moisture from entering the electronic device in which second connector assembly  2504  is located. 
     First connector assembly  2502  may include electrical contacts  2512 , which may be implemented using pogo pin assemblies  2514  similar to those described above with reference to  FIGS. 10-12 . In some embodiments, one or more cartridge assemblies (e.g., as described above with reference to  FIGS. 4-9 ) may be used. Pogo pin assemblies  2514  may be mounted on a shuttle  2516  that is movable within housing  2510 . Movement of shuttle  2516  may be controlled by operating a slider connected to slider element  2530 , which be disposed in an angled track  2532 . Lateral movement of slider element  2530  may push shuttle  2516  forward into the engaged position or backward into the retracted position. In some embodiments, slider element  2530  may be connected to a user-operable slider control outside of housing  2510 . 
       FIG. 27  shows an exploded view of connector assembly  2502  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector assembly  2502  may include housing  2510 , pogo pin assemblies  2514  with cosmetic caps  2716 , sled  2516 , sled return springs  2720 , a slider plate  2730  providing slider element  2530 , external slider control  2732  (attached to the reverse side of slider plate  2730 ), and connector release assembly  2740  (which may be similar to the user-operable ejection button described above). Electrical connections to pogo pin assemblies  2514  may be provided using a flexible printed circuit board  2750  with spring clips  2752  and trays  2754 . Although not shown, an interlock mechanism similar to mechanisms described above may be provided to prevent lateral sliding of connector assembly  2502  while sled  2516  is in the engaged position. 
     In some embodiments, a user-operable slider control may be located at a side surface of the connector assembly.  FIG. 28  shows a simplified cutaway view of another specific implementation of a connector assembly  2802  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector assembly  2802  may be generally similar to connector assembly  2402  of  FIG. 24 . Connector assembly  2802  may include a housing  2810 . A sled  2814  may be movably disposed inside housing  2810 , and sled  2814  may carry electrical contacts, such as pogo pin assemblies  2816 , which may include cosmetic caps  2818  similar to cosmetic caps described above. A cartridge assembly (e.g., as described above with reference to  FIGS. 4-9 ) may also be used. 
     A movable slider bar  2820  may be arranged within housing  2810  such that one end  2821  of slider bar  2820  extends outside of housing  2810 . A return spring  2823  may be disposed within housing  2810  at the end opposite exposed end  2821 . Slider bar  2820  may include projections  2822  that fit within channels  2824  of sled  2814 . Slider bar  2820  may also have a tongue  2826  that may extend forward and engage with an interlocker  2840  that can be moved by pressing or releasing an interlock button  2842 . 
       FIG. 28  shows sled  2814  in the retracted position. In operation, when the user presses inward on exposed end  2821  of slider bar  2820 , projections  2822  move laterally within channels  2824  of sled  2814 . Sled  2814  may be constrained from lateral movement, and consequently, the movement of projections  2822  may result in pushing sled  2814  forward into the engaged position. The same movement may also result in lateral movement of tongue  2826 . This can result in tongue  2826  interlocking with interlocker  2840 , thereby preventing unwanted movement of slider bar  2820 . 
       FIGS. 29-32  illustrate operation of an interlock mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 29  shows a simplified cutaway view including tongue  2826  and interlocker  2840 . Interlocker  2840  may be moved vertically by pressing on interlock button  2842  (not shown in  FIG. 29 ), which may attach to legs  2942 . Springs  2944  may provide a force that biases interlock button  2842  into its “up” position. 
       FIG. 29  shows a configuration where sled  2814  is in the retracted position and interlock button  2842  is in its “up” position. Interlocker  2840  may include a projection  2950  that prevents tongue  2826  from moving to the left. In some embodiments, this may prevent a user from pressing exposed end  2821  of slider bar  2820  inward, which may prevent forward movement of sled  2814 . 
       FIG. 30  shows an effect of pressing interlock button  2842  (or legs  2942 ) into its “down” position. Interlocker  2840 , including projection  2950 , is displaced downward within housing  2810 , and tongue  2826  is now able to move to the left. Thus, while interlock button  2842  is depressed, a user may press exposed end  2821  of sled  2814  inward, thereby moving sled  2814  forward into its engaged position. 
       FIG. 31  shows a configuration with sled  2814  in the engaged position. Tongue  2826  extends over the top of projection  2950 . In some embodiments, the end of tongue  2826  may be biased downward, and movement to the right of tongue  2826  may be blocked by locking tooth  3102 . This may provide a two-way interlock. First, the blocking of rightward movement of tongue  2826  may serve to hold sled  2814  in its engaged position. Second, the downward pressure of tongue  2826  on interlocker  2840  may push the bottom end of interlocker  2840  outward through an opening in housing  2810 . The bottom end of interlocker  2840  may interlock with a recess in a complementary connector assembly, thereby preventing lateral sliding of connector assembly  2802 . 
     To release the interlocked connectors, a user may be able to press upward on the bottom end of interlocker  2840 , either directly or using a button fitted into the device that includes the complementary connector assembly.  FIG. 32  shows a configuration similar to that of  FIG. 31 , except that interlocker  2840  is now pressed upward, raising tongue  2826  so that it can slide to the right over the surface of locking tooth  3102 . In some embodiments, when in the configuration of  FIG. 32 , the force of return spring  2823  (shown in  FIG. 28 ) may move slider bar  2820  to the right, thereby moving sled  2814  into the retracted position (shown in  FIGS. 28 and 29 ). Lateral sliding of connector assembly  2802  may then be permitted. 
     The particular sled and slider configuration may be modified. For example,  FIGS. 33 and 34  show simplified cutaway views of another specific implementation of a connector assembly  3302  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 33  shows connector assembly  3302  in its retracted position, and  FIG. 34  shows connector assembly  3302  in its engaged position. Connector assembly  3302  may be generally similar to connector assembly  2402  of  FIG. 24 , and may be similar to connector assembly  2802  in a number of respects. Connector assembly  3302  may include a housing  3310 . A sled  3314  may be movably disposed inside housing  3310 , and sled  3314  may carry electrical contacts, such as one or more pogo pin assemblies  3316 , which may include cosmetic caps  3318  similar to cosmetic caps described above. A cartridge assembly (e.g., as described above with reference to  FIGS. 4-9 ) may also be used. 
     A movable slider bar  3320  may be arranged within housing  3310  such that one end  3321  of slider bar  3320  extends outside of housing  3310 . A return spring (not shown) may be disposed within housing  3310  at the end opposite exposed end  3321 . When end  3321  is pressed inward, the lateral movement of slider bar  3320  may result in forward movement of sled  3314  and of pogo pin assemblies  3316 . Slider bar  3320  may be connected to a tongue  3326  that may extend forward and engage with an interlocker that can be moved by pressing or releasing an interlock button  3342 . An example interlock mechanism is described below. 
       FIG. 35  is a simplified cutaway view showing additional details of connector assembly  3302 . Slider bar  3320  may include projections  3522  that fit within V-shaped channels  3524  of sled  3314 . Slider bar  3320  may also include detent dimples  3530  that correspond to a detent projection  3532  of sled  3314 . In some embodiments, three detent dimples  3530  may be used to provide a tri-stable action for sled  3314 . 
       FIGS. 36 and 37  show additional views of sled  3314 , showing channels  3524 , detent projection  3532 , and connection of pogo pin assembly  3316 . In some embodiments, sled  3314  may include flexible arm sections  3604  to provide strain relief for pogo pin assembly  3316 . In some embodiments, arm sections  3604  may be rigid, and coupling springs may be used. 
       FIG. 38  shows an additional view of slider bar  3320 , including tongue  3326 , projections  3522 , and detent dimples  3530 . 
       FIG. 39  shows an assembly process that may be used to assemble connector assembly  3302 . First, pogo pin subassembly  3316  may be inserted into housing  3310  from the rear. Next, slider bar  3320  may be inserted through an opening in the side of housing  3310 . Thereafter, sled  3314  may be inserted through slider bar  3320 . 
       FIGS. 40 and 41  show additional details of an interlock mechanism that may be included in connector assembly  3302 .  FIG. 40  shows an engaged position, in which tongue  3326  of slider bar  3320  may press downward on an interlocker  4028 .  FIG. 41  shows a retracted position, in which tongue  3326  is blocked from movement to the left by projection  4030  on interlocker  4028 . The interlock mechanism and its operation may be generally similar to that described above with reference to  FIGS. 29-32 . 
     In still other embodiments of the present invention, a connector assembly may include a rotational mechanism to move a sled carrying electrical contacts between an engaged position and a retracted position. The rotational mechanism may include, for example, a screw that may be operated using a screwdriver or other tool. 
       FIGS. 42 and 43  show simplified cutaway views of a connector assembly  4202  according to an embodiment of the present invention that includes a rotational mechanism. Connector assembly  4202  may be generally similar to first connector assembly  102  of  FIG. 1 . Connector assembly  4202  may include a housing  4210  and a movable sled  4214  disposed within housing  4210 . Movable sled  4214  may be moved between a retracted position (shown in  FIG. 42 ) and an engaged position (shown in  FIG. 43 ) by rotation of screw  4230 , which rotates triangular plate  4232 . In this example, a rotation through 90 degrees suffices to move sled  4214  between the retracted and engaged positions. The head of screw  4230  may be exposed outside housing  4210 , making screw  4230  accessible to a user. 
     Electrical contacts may be attached to movable sled  4214 . For example, the electrical contacts may be implemented using pogo pin assemblies  4216 , which may be similar to the pogo pin assembly described above with reference to  FIGS. 10-12 . Cosmetic caps  4218 , similar to those described above, may be provided on front surfaces of pogo pin assemblies  4216 . In the retracted position, cosmetic caps  4218  may be flush with or retracted within the front surface of housing  4210 , and in the extended position, cosmetic caps  4218  may extend slightly beyond the front surface of housing  4210 . A cartridge assembly (e.g., as described above with reference to  FIGS. 4-9 ) may also be used. 
     As with other embodiments of the invention, it may be desirable to prevent lateral movement of connector assembly  4202  while sled  4214  is in its engaged position, and it may also be desirable to lock sled  4214  into the engaged position when connector assembly  4202  is connected to a complementary connector assembly. Accordingly, in some embodiments, an interlock mechanism may include an interlock plate  4240 . Interlock plate  4240  may be attached to (or formed integrally with) triangular plate  4232 , so that interlock plate  4240  rotates together with triangular plate  4232  when screw  4230  is turned. An interlocker  4242  may be movable into and out of the path of interlock plate  4240  to restrict or allow rotation of triangular plate  4232  and thereby to restrict or allow movement of sled  4214 . 
       FIG. 44  is a cross section view showing additional details of the interlock mechanism. As shown, interlocker  4242  may be connected to an interlock button  4402  that extends through housing  4210 . Interlock button  4402  may be biased into a raised position (e.g., using a spring, not shown) that moves interlocker  4242  out of the path of interlock plate  4240 . When interlocker  4242  is out of the path of interlock plate  4240 , as shown, it is possible to rotate screw  4230 , thereby moving sled  4214  between the retracted and engaged positions. Accordingly, interlock plate  4240  may be rotated out of the path of interlocker  4242  (e.g., into the retracted position). Once interlock plate  4240  is out of the path of interlocker  4242 , it may become possible to press interlock button  4402  into a position flush with the surface of housing  4210 , thereby allowing lateral sliding of housing  4210  against a housing of a complementary connector assembly. 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, other rotational mechanisms may be substituted for screw  4230  and triangular plate  4232 .  FIG. 45  shows a simplified cutaway view of a connector assembly  4502  according to an embodiment of the present invention, and  FIG. 46  shows a simplified cross section view of connector assembly  4502 . (The views in  FIGS. 45 and 46  are from opposite sides.) Connector assembly  4502  may be generally similar to first connector assembly  4202  of  FIG. 42 . Connector assembly  4502  may include a housing  4510  and a movable sled  4514  disposed within housing  4510 . As with other embodiments described above, electrical contacts, e.g., pogo pin assemblies  4516 , may be mounted on movable sled  4514 . Movable sled  4514  may be moved between a retracted position (shown in  FIGS. 45 and 46 ) and an engaged position (not shown) by rotation of screw  4530 , which rotates a projecting pin  4532 . The arc of travel of projecting pin  4532  may be limited by a plate  4534 , which may be fixed to or formed integrally with housing  4510 . The forward edge of plate  4534  may be shaped such that projecting pin  4532  may rotate to a lower position on one side (the left side in  FIG. 45 ) than on the other side; the total arc of travel may be more than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees Accordingly, when screw  4530  is rotated such that projecting pin  4532  is at the left end of its arc of travel, sled  4514  is in its retracted position, and when screw  4530  is rotated such that projecting pin  4532  is at the right end of its arc of travel, sled  4514  is in its engaged position. Although not explicitly shown, an interlock mechanism similar to the mechanisms described above may be provided to prevent unwanted movement of sled  4512 . 
     In still other embodiments of the present invention, a lever mechanism may be used to move a sled carrying electrical contacts between retracted and engaged positions.  FIGS. 47A  and  47 B show simplified side cross-section views of a connector interface system  4700  incorporating a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector interface system  4700  may be generally similar to connector interface system  100  of  FIG. 1  and may include a first connector assembly  4702  (generally similar to connector assembly  102 ) and a second connector assembly  4704  (generally similar to connector assembly  104 ). First connector assembly  4702  may include a housing  4710  and one or more electrical contacts  4712  mounted on a sled (or shuttle)  4714  that may be disposed within housing  4710 . Sled  4714  may be movable in a direction perpendicular to front surface  4716  of connector assembly  4702 .  FIG. 47A  shows sled  4714  in a retracted position, in which electrical contacts  4712  do not extend outside of housing  4710 . In some embodiments, electrical contacts  4712  may be flush with surface  4716 , and in other embodiments, electrical contacts  4712  may be retracted farther such that they do not extend all the way to surface  4716 . When sled  4714  is in the retracted position, connector assembly  4702  may slide laterally relative to connector assembly  4704  without risk of damage to electrical contacts  4712 .  FIG. 47B  shows sled  4714  in an engaged position. In this position, electrical contacts  4712  extend through housing  4710  and make contact with corresponding electrical contacts  4722  of second connector assembly  4704 . 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 47A-47B , a lever mechanism  4720  may be operated to move sled  4714  between its retracted and engaged positions. Lever mechanism  4720  may operate in a direction transverse to the plane in which connector assembly  4702  slides laterally relative to connector assembly  4704 . As shown in  FIG. 47C , in some embodiments where first connector assembly  4702  is implemented as a lug that connects a watch band  4750  to a watch body unit  4760 , lever  4720  may be operated by deflecting watch band  4750  inward. 
       FIG. 48  shows a simplified cutaway view of a specific implementation of a connector assembly  4802  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Connector assembly  4802  may be generally similar to connector assembly  4700 . Electrical contacts may be implemented using pogo pin assemblies  4812 , which may be generally similar to pogo pin assemblies described above with reference to  FIGS. 10-12 . In some embodiments, a cartridge assembly (e.g., as described above with reference to  FIGS. 4-9 ) may be used. Pogo pin assemblies  4812  may be mounted on a sled  4814  that is movable between retracted and engaged positions. (The engaged position is shown.) Deflection of lever section  4830  may operate lever  4832  to rotate pin  4834 . Pin  4834  may have teeth (not shown) that interlock with teeth in a recess region  4836  of sled  4814 , so that rotation of pin  4834  may move sled  4814  between the engaged and retracted positions. Other retraction mechanisms may be substituted. Interlock mechanisms similar to those described above may be used to prevent unwanted movement of sled  4814 . 
     In various embodiments described above, it is assumed that coupling of connector assemblies may be a two-step process. In a first step, complementary connector assemblies may slide laterally relative to each other into an aligned position while electrical contacts of a first one of the connector assemblies are held in a retracted position (in which the contacts are protected by the housing of the first connector assembly). In a second step, once the connector assemblies are aligned, the electrical contacts of the first connector may be moved from the retracted position to an engaged position, in which the electrical contacts may extend through the housing of the first connector assembly to make contact with corresponding electrical contacts of the second connector assembly. In the examples described above, the electrical contacts of the second connector assembly need not be movable, and this may decrease the overall cost of the connector interface system, as one of the assemblies need not have moving parts. However, in other embodiments, contacts of both connector assemblies may be movable. 
     In still other embodiments of the present invention, a connector interface system may provide a plug-type connection, in which a first connector assembly is inserted into a second connector assembly.  FIG. 49  shows an example of a connector interface system  4900  using a plug-type connection according to an embodiment of the present invention. A first connector assembly  4902  may be a connector insert, and a second connector assembly  4904  may be a connector receptacle. Connector assembly  4902  may be inserted into connector assembly  4904  along the direction indicated by arrow  4906 . In some embodiments, connector assembly  4904  may be formed in a watch body unit, and connector assembly  4902  may be formed as a lug that connects a watch band to the watch body unit. 
     Where a plug-type connection is used instead of a lateral sliding connection, mechanical design of the connector assembly may be simplified, as the potential for damage to electrical contacts during lateral sliding is reduced or eliminated. For example, the electrical contacts of first connector assembly  4902  may be fixedly disposed in the engaged position, extending slightly forward from the front end of the connector housing. 
       FIG. 50  shows a side cross-section view of an implementation of connector interface system  4900  according to an embodiment of the present invention. First connector assembly  4902  is inserted into second connector assembly  4904 . As shown, first connector assembly  4902  may incorporate one or more electrical contacts  5012 , which may be implemented using pogo pin assemblies  5014 . Pogo pin assemblies  5014  may be similar to pogo pin assemblies described above with reference to  FIGS. 10-12 . In some embodiments, a cartridge assembly (e.g., as described above with reference to  FIGS. 4-9 ) may be used. Cosmetic caps  5016 , which may be made of a compressible, elastic, water-resistant material (e.g., rubber) may extend beyond the housing of connector assembly  4902 . Cosmetic caps  5016  may provide a water-resistant seal when first connector assembly  4902  is plugged into second connector assembly  4904 . 
       FIG. 51  shows another side cross-section view of an implementation of connector interface system  4900  according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing an interlock mechanism. First connector assembly  4902  may have a movable locking tooth  5104  that is biased outward through an opening in the side of housing  5106 . Housing  5108  of second connector assembly  4904  may incorporate an eject button  5110  that is biased away from locking tooth  5104 . 
     In operation, as connector assembly  4902  slides into housing  5108  of second connector assembly  4904 , housing  5108  may press locking tooth  5104  inward, allowing connector assembly  4902  to advance toward the connected position. The outer surface of locking tooth  5104  may be shaped as shown to facilitate forward movement. Once connector assembly  4902  is fully forward, locking tooth  5104  may extend into the opening in housing  5108 , thereby holding connector assembly  4902  in place. To remove connector assembly  4902 , a user may press inward on eject button  5110 , thereby pushing locking tooth  5104  into housing  5106  of connector assembly  4902  and allowing connector assembly  4902  to be pulled out from connector assembly  4904 . Other interlock mechanisms (e.g., bayonet latches on the sides of connector assembly  4902 ) may be substituted. 
     The various connector assemblies shown and described above may be modified as desired. Sizes and form factors may be adapted to a particular use case. For example, the connector assemblies may be small, with a length of about 25 mm and a thickness of about 4 mm. The travel distance of the electrical contacts may be 1 mm or less (e.g., 0.3 mm or 0.6 mm). Other dimensions may be used. The number and spacing of electrical contacts may be modified as desired. In some embodiments, one or more electrical contacts may be provided using a cartridge assembly as described above, and one or more cartridge assemblies may be disposed within the housing of the connector assembly. In some embodiments, one or more cartridge assemblies holding multiple contacts may be mounted on a sled (or shuttle) in the manner described above instead of mounting each contact individually. 
     Further, in some embodiments described above, the connector assembly that includes movable electrical contacts slides laterally into a slot in a complementary connector assembly that includes electrical contacts having a fixed position. It is to be understood that this configuration may be varied. For example, movable electrical contacts may be provided in a receptacle connector assembly (e.g., the connector assembly with a slot) while the insert connector assembly (e.g., the connector assembly that slides into the slot) has fixed electrical contacts. In the case of a watch, the movable contacts may be located in the watch body unit while the fixed contacts are located in the band. In still other embodiments, both connector assemblies may have movable electrical contacts. Movable electrical contacts using any of the techniques described above may also be implemented in connector assemblies where the interconnection does not involve lateral sliding; for instance, retractable electrical contacts with any of the retraction mechanisms described above may be implemented in either or both connector assemblies of a plug-in connector interface of the type shown in  FIG. 49 . 
     In various embodiments of the present invention, the components of the connector assemblies may be formed in various ways of various materials. For example, conductive portions may be formed by stamping, metal-injection molding, machining, micro-machining, 3-D printing, or other manufacturing process. The conductive portions may be formed of stainless steel, steel, copper, copper titanium, phosphor bronze, palladium, palladium silver, or other material or combination of materials. They may be plated or coated with nickel, gold, or other material. The nonconductive portions, such as the housings and other portions, may be formed using injection or other molding, 3-D printing, machining, or other manufacturing process. The nonconductive portions may be formed of silicon or silicone, Mylar, Mylar tape, rubber, hard rubber, plastic, nylon, elastomers, liquid-crystal polymers (LCPs), ceramics, or other nonconductive material or combination of materials. The transformer cores may be formed of ferrite material, such as a soft ferrite. The transformer cores may be sintered or subjected to other manufacturing steps. The flexible circuit boards may be replaced with printed circuit boards (PCBs) or other appropriate substrates. 
     Embodiments of the present invention may provide connector assemblies that may be located in, or may connect to, various types of devices, such as portable computing devices, tablet computers, desktop computers, laptops, all-in-one computers, wearable computing devices, cell phones, smart phones, media phones, storage devices, keyboards, covers, cases, portable media players, navigation systems, monitors, power supplies, adapters, remote control devices, chargers, and other devices. These connector assemblies may provide interconnect paths for signals that are compliant with various standards such as Universal Serial Bus (USB), High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), Digital Visual Interface (DVI), Ethernet, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, Lightning, Joint Test Action Group (JTAG), test-access-port (TAP), Directed Automated Random Testing (DART), universal asynchronous receiver/transmitters (UARTs), clock signals, power signals, and other types of standard, non-standard, and proprietary interfaces and combinations thereof that have been developed, are being developed, or will be developed in the future. In various embodiments of the present invention, these interconnect paths provided by these connectors may be used to convey power, ground, signals, test points, and other voltage, current, data, or other information. 
     The above description of embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form described, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the teaching above. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Thus, it will be appreciated that the invention is intended to cover all modifications and equivalents within the scope of the following claims.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20170921
Publication Date: 20191022
Grant Date: 20191022
Priority Date: 20160923
Inventors: KALLMAN, BENJAMIN J.
JOL, ERIC S.
WITTENBERG, MICHAEL B.
Dey, Stephen E.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01R13/633", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/2428", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/147", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/1493", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/06", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/2421", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G99/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/147", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2005/008", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/2421", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/1493", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6315", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/105", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/1486", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/14", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/745", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2005/008", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/4534", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44D2203/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/506", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/2428", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/633", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/06", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/18", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/18", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/14", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/147", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2005/008", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G99/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/105", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2200/0516", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/506", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/633", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6315", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/4534", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/745", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/2421", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/2428", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/1486", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44D2203/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/1516", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/1516", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/1486", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 61687092