PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8687299-B1
Application Number: US-201213607611-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B1

Title: Bayonet attachment mechanisms

Abstract:
An attachment mechanism includes a compliance member positioned between a body and bayonets. The bayonets collectively define an aperture therebetween. Alignment members prevent rotation of the bayonets relative to the body while allowing the bayonets to move radially outwardly against the compliance member. When a second attachment mechanism is received in the aperture of the first attachment mechanism, relative rotation therebetween may interlock corresponding bayonets thereof. The attachment mechanisms may release from one another in a drop event or other incidence of force applied thereto by allowing a bayonet to radially move outwardly out of contact with a corresponding bayonet of the second attachment mechanism. Related methods are also provided.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An attachment mechanism, comprising:
 a body defining a cavity therein; 
 a plurality of bayonets received in the cavity and radially disposed around an aperture; 
 at least one compliance member positioned between the bayonets and the body and configured to bias the bayonets toward one another; and 
 a plurality of alignment members configured to allow radial movement of the bayonets and restrain rotational movement of the bayonets relative to the body. 
 
     
     
       2. The attachment mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein the alignment members are defined by the body. 
     
     
       3. The attachment mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein the compliance member comprises an elastomeric ring. 
     
     
       4. The attachment mechanism of  claim 3 , wherein the elastomeric ring defines a plurality of recesses and the alignment members extend through the recesses. 
     
     
       5. The attachment mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein the bayonets comprise a plurality of recesses and the alignment members extend through the recesses. 
     
     
       6. A lens device, comprising:
 a body defining a cavity therein; 
 a lens received in the cavity; 
 a plurality of bayonets received in the cavity and radially disposed around an aperture; 
 at least one compliance member positioned between the bayonets and the body and configured to bias the bayonets toward one another; and 
 a plurality of alignment members configured to allow radial movement of the bayonets and restrain rotational movement of the bayonets relative to the body. 
 
     
     
       7. The lens device of  claim 6 , wherein the body comprises an end wall defining a through hole aligned with the aperture. 
     
     
       8. The lens device of  claim 7 , wherein the bayonets and the compliance member are sandwiched between the lens and the end wall. 
     
     
       9. The lens device of  claim 8 , further comprising one or more sliding inserts positioned between the lens and the bayonets. 
     
     
       10. The lens device of  claim 7 , further comprising a sliding ring coupled to an outer surface of the end wall. 
     
     
       11. The lens device of  claim 6 , wherein the body defines an internal threaded surface and the lens defines an external threaded surface that engages the internal threaded surface of the body. 
     
     
       12. The lens device of  claim 11 , wherein a shoulder of the body engages a shoulder of the lens. 
     
     
       13. A system, comprising:
 an electronic device; 
 an accessory device; 
 a first attachment mechanism comprising:
 a body defining a cavity therein; 
 a second plurality of bayonets received in the cavity and radially disposed around an aperture; 
 at least one compliance member positioned between the second plurality of bayonets and the body and configured to bias the second plurality of bayonets toward one another; 
 a plurality of alignment members configured to allow radial movement of the second plurality of bayonets and restrain rotational movement of the second plurality of bayonets relative to the body; and 
 
 a second attachment mechanism comprising a base with a first plurality of bayonets extending therefrom and with a hole extending therethrough, 
 wherein the first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism are respectively coupled to one of the electronic device and the accessory device and the first plurality of bayonets are configured to engage the second plurality of bayonets to releasably couple the accessory device to the electronic device. 
 
     
     
       14. The system of  claim 13 , wherein the first attachment mechanism is coupled to the accessory device and the second attachment mechanism is coupled to the electronic device. 
     
     
       15. The system of  claim 13 , wherein the electronic device comprises a camera, and the accessory device comprises a lens. 
     
     
       16. The system of  claim 13 , wherein the accessory device further comprises a sliding ring configured to engage an exterior surface of the electronic device. 
     
     
       17. A method, comprising:
 positioning a plurality of bayonets in a radial configuration with an aperture defined therebetween in a cavity defined by a body; 
 positioning at least one compliance member between the bayonets and the body to bias the bayonets toward one another; and 
 restraining rotational movement of the bayonets with respect to the body with a plurality of alignment members configured to allow for radial movement of the bayonets. 
 
     
     
       18. The method of  claim 17 , wherein positioning the compliance member between the bayonets and the body comprises aligning a plurality of recesses defined in the compliance member with the alignment members. 
     
     
       19. The method of  claim 18 , wherein restraining rotational movement of the bayonets comprises aligning a plurality of recesses defined in the bayonets with the alignment members. 
     
     
       20. The method of  claim 18 , further comprising inserting a lens into the body. 
     
     
       21. The method of  claim 20 , further comprising inserting one or more sliding inserts between the lens and the bayonets.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to attachment mechanisms, and more particularly to attachment mechanisms configured to attach an accessory device to an electronic device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Various methods and apparatuses have been developed for coupling accessory devices to other items. For example, eyelets, hook and loop fasteners, threaded fasteners, and other mechanisms have been developed for this purpose. Such mechanisms are employed in a wide variety of applications. 
     However, existing embodiments of mechanisms configured to couple accessory devices to devices such as electronic devices may prove unsatisfactory to a user. In this regard, existing embodiments of such mechanisms may detract from the aesthetic appeal of the device or alter the form factor of the device to a less desirable configuration. Further, some embodiments of attachment mechanisms may not be configured to release in a drop event, and accordingly, damage to one or both of the accessory device and the electronic device may result. 
     Accordingly, improved apparatuses and methods for attaching accessory devices may be desirable. 
     SUMMARY 
     Attachment mechanisms are provided. The attachment mechanisms may be configured to couple accessory devices, such as lens devices to an electronic device. For example, a lens may be coupled to the exterior of an electronic device with first and second attachment mechanisms. 
     A first attachment mechanism may include bayonets that collectively define and surround an aperture. The bayonets may be received in a body, and a compliance member such as an elastomeric ring may be positioned between the body and an outer wall defined by each of the bayonets. The compliance member may thus compress the bayonets into engagement with one another. Alignment members may prevent rotation of the bayonets relative to the body, while allowing radial movement of the bayonets. 
     A second attachment mechanism configured to couple to the first attachment mechanism may include stationary bayonets extending from a base. The aperture defined by the bayonets may be configured to receive the second attachment mechanism axially therethrough. Once the first and second attachment mechanisms are joined in this manner, they may be rotated relative to one another. The rotation may cause the bayonets of the second attachment mechanism to press against the bayonets of the first attachment mechanism. Accordingly, the bayonets of the first attachment mechanism may be displaced radially outwardly against the compliance member. As detents of the first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism align, the attachment mechanisms may reach a secured configuration. 
     The attachment mechanisms may be released from the secured configuration by rotating the first attachment mechanism relative to the second attachment mechanism in the opposite direction. The attachment mechanisms may also be configured to release when force is applied to the devices coupled together by the attachment mechanisms. In this regard, a bayonet of the first attachment mechanism may travel up a ramp defined by a bayonet of the second attachment mechanism while being radially displaced outwardly against the compliance member. Thereby, the attachment mechanisms may separate such that force applied to a first device may not be fully transferred to the second device, and thereby the second device may be protected. Related methods are also provided. 
     Other apparatuses, methods, features and advantages of the disclosure will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the disclosure, and be protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The included drawings are for illustrative purposes and serve only to provide examples of possible structures and arrangements for the disclosed assemblies, methods, and systems. These drawings in no way limit any changes in form and detail that may be made to the disclosure by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a system comprising an electronic device and a lens device in a decoupled configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates the system of  FIG. 1  in a coupled configuration; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates first and second attachment mechanisms of the system of  FIG. 1  in an unsecured configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates the first and second attachment mechanisms of  FIG. 3  in a secured configuration; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates an exploded view of a lens device and first and second attachment mechanisms, wherein the first attachment mechanism includes radially displaceable bayonets and a compliance member according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates an end view of a body and a bayonet of the first attachment mechanism of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an end view of the first attachment mechanism of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view of the second attachment mechanism of  FIG. 5  fixed to an electronic device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates an end view of first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism of  FIG. 5  in an unsecured configuration; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates an end view of first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism of  FIG. 5  in an intermediate configuration; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates an end view of first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism of  FIG. 5  in a secured configuration; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a modified sectional view through a system comprising the lens device of  FIG. 5  when coupled to the electronic device of  FIG. 8  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a side view of the system of  FIG. 12  during a drop event according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a modified sectional view through the system of  FIG. 12  at an initial impact during the drop event of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a modified sectional view through the system of  FIG. 12  as the lens device releases from the electronic device during the drop event of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates an enlarged partial side view of the second attachment mechanism of  FIG. 5  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; and 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a schematic diagram of a method according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Example applications of apparatuses, systems, and methods according to the present disclosure are described in this section. These examples are being provided solely to add context and aid in the understanding of the disclosure. It will thus be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Other applications are possible, such that the following examples should not be taken as limiting. 
     In this field of electronic devices, it may be desirable to attach an accessory device thereto. For example, it may be desirable to couple a lens device to a portable electronic device including a camera. In this regard, the camera may not include optical zoom functionality, wide angle capability, or certain filters, and hence the addition of an accessory device that includes one or more of these functionalities may be desirable. However, existing embodiments of lens accessory devices have employed unsatisfactory solutions, particularly in the context of lens accessory devices configured for exterior mounting. 
     In this regard, some lens accessory devices include a separate case that attaches to the electronic device, and the lens attaches to the case (e.g., via a threaded connection). The required use of a case may alter the form factor of the electronic device by increasing the size thereof, which may be undesirable to a consumer. Further, a consumer may prefer an electronic device with a built-in option for attaching a lens accessory device. 
     Another embodiment of a lens accessory device includes a magnetic ring that mounts around the camera on the housing of the electronic device and the lens magnetically couples thereto. However, magnetic coupling may be insufficient to retain the connection therebetween during activities such as walking or handling of the electronic device that may be expected during normal use. Further, the magnetic ring may be unsightly. Additionally, if the magnetic ring is improperly aligned with respect to the camera, the view through the lens may be obstructed or distorted. 
     Accordingly, an integrated solution for attaching an accessory device to an electronic device, for example such that the accessory device is mounted to an exterior of the electronic device, may be desirable. In this regard,  FIG. 1  illustrates a system  100  comprising an electronic device  102  and an accessory device in the form of a lens device  104  configured to couple thereto. As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the interaction between a first attachment mechanism  106  coupled to the lens device  104  and a second attachment mechanism  108  coupled to the electronic device  102  may provide for coupling therebetween. Specifically, the lens device  104  may couple to the electronic device  102  at a camera  110  thereof such that the electronic device may take advantage of added functionality provided by the lens device. 
     Although a variety of attachment mechanisms may be employed, in one embodiment the attachment mechanisms  106 ,  108  may respectively comprise first and second pluralities of bayonets  112 ,  114 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . For clarity purposes the first attachment mechanism  106  is shown without the lens device  104 .  FIG. 3  illustrates the attachment mechanisms  106 ,  108  in an unsecured configuration. In this regard, the attachment mechanisms  106 ,  108  may be moved toward one another along an axis  116  to reach the unsecured position. In the unsecured position, the bayonets  112  of the first attachment mechanism  106  are misaligned relative to the bayonets  114  of the second attachment mechanism  108 . Accordingly, the second attachment mechanism  108  may be axially inserted into the first attachment mechanism  106 . 
     Thereafter, as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the attachment mechanisms  106 ,  108  may be rotated relative to one another (e.g., in the direction indicated by arrow  118 ) such that the bayonets  112 ,  114  overlap one another and are held in place via interference fit. A dot  120  is provided to illustrate the movement of the first attachment mechanism  106  from the unsecured configuration (see,  FIG. 3 ) to a secured configuration (see,  FIG. 4 ). The attachment mechanisms  106 ,  108  may be returned to the unsecured configuration by rotating the first attachment mechanism relative to the second attachment mechanism in the opposing direction (opposite to the arrow  118 ). 
     Accordingly, the lens device  104  may be secured to and unsecured from the electronic device  102  as described above. However, use of attachment mechanisms comprising typical bayonets may not be desirable. In this regard, typical bayonet mounts may be relatively strong and require relative rotation of the attachment mechanisms in order to release the two items held together thereby. While a strong connection is normally advantageous, in a drop event such a strong connection may be undesirable. In this regard, in the context of the system  100  described above, if the lens device  104  impacts the ground when the system is dropped, the lens device may transfer force to the electronic device  102  through the attachment mechanisms  106 ,  108 . This force may be relatively strong depending on the height from which the system  100  is dropped. Accordingly, in some events the lens device  104  may transfer enough force that the second attachment mechanism  108  may cause damage to the electronic device. For example, a housing thereof may be bent or otherwise damaged. Accordingly, it may be desirable to configure the attachment mechanisms such that they release when force greater than a desired threshold is applied thereto. However, it may also be desirable that the attachment mechanisms maintain a secure connection in other circumstances. 
     Accordingly embodiments of the present disclosure relate to improved attachment mechanisms. In this regard,  FIG. 5  illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a lens device  200  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The lens device  200  may comprise a lens  202  and a first attachment mechanism  204  configured to engage a second attachment mechanism  206 . The lens  202  may comprise a variety of different embodiments of lens (e.g., telescopic, wide angle, fish eye, filtered, etc.). 
     The first attachment mechanism  204  may comprise a body  208 , a compliance member  210 , a plurality of bayonets  212 , and a plurality of sliding inserts  214 . The body  208  defines a cavity  216  in which compliance member  210  and the bayonets  212  are received. In one embodiment the body  208  may comprise aluminum, the bayonets  212  may comprise stainless steel, the compliance member  210  may comprise silicone rubber, and the sliding inserts  214  may comprise Teflon, although various other materials may be employed in other embodiments. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an overhead view of the body  208  and one of the bayonets  212  received in a cavity  216  defined thereby. As illustrated, the first attachment mechanism  204  may further comprise a plurality of alignment members  218 . In one embodiment the alignment members  218  may be defined by the body  208 , whereas in another embodiment a separate insert may be provided that defines the alignment members. 
     The alignment members  218  may be configured to allow radial movement of the bayonets  212  and restrain rotational movement of the bayonets relative to the body  208 . In this regard, the bayonets  212  may respectively comprise one or more recesses  220  and the alignment members  218  may extend through the recesses. Both the recesses  220  and the alignment members  218  may extend radially inwardly toward the center the cavity  216 . The bayonets  212  may slide between the alignment members  218 , which may comprise prongs, and an end wall  222  of the body  208 . A through hole  224  may be defined in the end wall  222  of the body  208 . 
     Note that the compliance member  210  may be positioned between the bayonets  212  and the body  208 . In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the compliance member  210  may be configured to bias the bayonets  212  toward one another. For example, the compliance member  210  may comprise an elastomeric ring that is placed into contact with a cylindrical inner surface  226  of the body  208  and an outer wall  228  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 5 ) of the bayonets  212 . In one embodiment the compliance member  210  may be partially compressed by the bayonets  212  when the first attachment mechanism is configured in an unsecured configuration, such that the bayonets  212  are retained in place without gaps therebetween in an unsecured configuration. The compliance member  210  may define a plurality of recesses  230  through which the alignment members  218  may extend in order to also extend through the recesses  220  in the bayonets  212  as described above. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the bayonets  212  may be received in the cavity  216  defined by the body  208  such that the bayonets are radially disposed around an aperture  232  defined by the bayonets. The aperture  232  may align with the through hole  224  defined in the end wall  222  of the body  208 . Accordingly, the first attachment mechanism  204  may mate with the second attachment mechanism  206 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the second attachment mechanism  206  may be coupled to an electronic device  234  such that the lens device  200  and/or other accessory devices may be coupled thereto. Note that although the first attachment mechanism  204  is generally described herein as being coupled to an accessory device and the second attachment mechanism  206  is generally described herein as being coupled to an electronic device, the opposite configuration may be provided in other embodiments. 
     As illustrated, the second attachment mechanism  206  may comprise a cylindrical base, which may include a hole  235  extending therethrough. The hole  235  may align with a camera  236  of the electronic device  234  in some embodiments. The second attachment mechanism  206  may also include a plurality of bayonets  238  extending therefrom. The bayonets  238  and/or the remainder of the second attachment mechanism  206  may comprise stainless steel in one embodiment, although various other materials may be employed in other embodiments. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates the second attachment mechanism  206  received in the first attachment mechanism  204 . More particularly, the first attachment mechanism  204  and the second attachment mechanism  206  are in an unsecured configuration. As illustrated, the aperture  232  defined by the bayonets  212  may correspond in shape to the outer profile of the second attachment mechanism  206  such that the second attachment mechanism may be received therethrough. Further, the aperture  232  may be sized such that the second attachment mechanism  206  may extend therethrough without requiring the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  to separate. Alternative, the bayonets  212  may separate slightly when the second attachment mechanism  206  is received in the first attachment mechanism  204  in another embodiment. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates the interaction between the first attachment mechanism  204  and the second attachment mechanism  206  as the first attachment mechanism is rotated in a clockwise direction  240  relative to the second attachment mechanism. As illustrated in  FIG. 10 , in one embodiment the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  may each define first and second detents  242 ,  244 . The bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  may each define a detent  246  and a stop member  248 . 
     In this regard, as the first attachment mechanism  204  rotates in the clockwise direction  240  from the unsecured position illustrated in  FIG. 9  to an intermediate position illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the first detent  242  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism comes into contact with the detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206 . The contact between the detents  242 ,  246  causes an increase in the torque required for relative rotation between the first attachment mechanism  204  and the second attachment mechanism  206  that may be perceptible to a user. In this regard, the alignment members  218  may restrain rotational movement of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism relative to the remainder of the first attachment mechanism, as described above. Thus, interference between the first detent  242  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  and the detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  may require an increase in torque to continue the relative rotation therebetween. 
     During contact between the detents  242 ,  246 , the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  may be radially displaced outwardly as indicated by the arrows  250 , which may cause gaps  252  to be formed between the bayonets  212 . The outward radial movement of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  may be resisted by contact between the bayonets and the compliance member  210 . Thus, the spring rate of the compliance member  210  may affect the torque required to rotate the first attachment mechanism  204  relative to the second attachment mechanism  206  to the intermediate position. In this regard, a relatively stiffer compliance member  210  may require more torque, whereas a relatively less stiff compliance member may require less torque. 
     As the user continues to rotate the first attachment mechanism  204  in the clockwise direction  240  relative to the second attachment mechanism  206 , the first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism reach a secured configuration illustrated in  FIG. 11 . During this rotation, the first detent  242  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  passes the detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206 . Accordingly, the force associated with rotating the first attachment mechanism  204  relative to the second attachment mechanism decreases, and the plates move radially inwardly as indicated by the arrows  254  such that the size of the gaps  252  may decrease. 
     The detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  is then received between the first and second detents  242 ,  244  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204 , as illustrated in  FIG. 11 . In this configuration, the first detent  242  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  may be in contact with the detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  such that relative rotation of the first attachment mechanism in the a counterclockwise direction (opposite to the clockwise direction  240 ) is resisted. Further, the second detent  244  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  may be in contact with the detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  such that relative rotation of the first attachment mechanism in the clockwise direction  240  is resisted. Additionally, since the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  may overlap with the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206 , relative axial translation of the first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism may be avoided. Accordingly, the first attachment mechanism  204  and the second attachment mechanism  206  may be secured to one another. 
     Additionally, in the secured configuration illustrated in  FIG. 11 , the stop member  248  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  may contact the first detent  242  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204 . The stop member  248  may extend radially outwardly from the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  farther than the detent  246 . As a result of extending farther radially outwardly from the bayonets  238 , the stop member  248  may cause the torque required to rotate the first attachment mechanism  204  relative to the second attachment mechanism  206  in the clockwise direction  240  to increase beyond the torque required to rotate the first detent  242  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism past the detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism. In this regard, the stop member  248  may be configured to provide the user with an indication that the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  have reached the secured configuration, and hence the attachment mechanisms should not be rotated further. However, should the user continue to rotate the first attachment mechanism  204  further in the clockwise direction  240  relative to the second attachment mechanism  206 , the first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism may return to the unsecured configuration illustrated in  FIG. 9 . 
     The attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  may also be returned to the unsecured configuration by relative rotation in the opposite direction (opposite to the clockwise direction  240 ), with the interaction of the attachment mechanisms being substantially opposite to that described above during movement from the unsecured configuration to the secured configuration. Rotation in this manner may be the preferred method for returning the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  to the unsecured configuration in some embodiments. More particularly, as the first attachment mechanism  204  is rotated in a counterclockwise direction relative to the second attachment mechanism  204 , the first detent  242  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism may contact the detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism, causing the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism to move radially outwardly (see, e.g., arrows  250 ), opening the gaps  252  therebetween. Resistance associated with compression of the compliance member  210  may require an increase in torque to rotate the first attachment mechanism  204  relative to the second attachment mechanism  206 , which may be perceptible to a user. 
     As the user continues to rotate the first attachment mechanism  204  in the counterclockwise direction relative to the second attachment mechanism  206 , the first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism return to the unsecured secured configuration illustrated in  FIG. 9 . During this rotation, the first detent  242  of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  passes the detent  246  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206 . Accordingly, the force associated with rotating the first attachment mechanism  204  relative to the second attachment mechanism decreases, and the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  move radially inwardly (see, e.g., arrows  254 ) such that the size of the gaps  252  may decrease. Then the first attachment mechanism  204  and the second attachment mechanism  206  may be separated from one another by axial displacement of the first attachment mechanism relative to the second attachment mechanism in a direction opposite to the axial displacement direction employed to bring the attachment mechanisms into contact. 
     Note that engagement and disengage of the attachment mechanisms may occur in opposing directions in other embodiments. For example, engagement may occur via relative counterclockwise rotation between the attachment mechanisms in other embodiments. Further, disengagement may occur via relative clockwise rotation between the attachment mechanisms. 
     The attachment mechanisms described herein may be employed in conjunction with a variety of devices. However  FIG. 12  illustrates one example embodiment of a system  256  including the lens device  200  releasably coupled to the electronic device  234 , which may comprise a camera  236  as described above. As illustrated, when the lens device  200  is assembled, the sliding inserts  214  may come into contact with a bottom surface  260  of the lens  202 . For example, the lens  202  may define an external threaded surface  262  that may engage an internal threaded surface  264  of the body  208 . Accordingly, the lens  202  may be secured to the body  208  by screwing therein. 
     Thereby, lens  202  may be received in the cavity  216  such that the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  are sandwiched between the lens and the end wall  222  of the body  208 . Thus, the sliding inserts  214  may be positioned between the lens  202  and the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204 . Accordingly, the sliding inserts  214 , which may comprise a material configured to reduce friction such as Teflon, may allow the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  to move as described above. Note that contact between the lens  202  and the sliding inserts  214  and between the end wall  222  of the body  208  and the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  may function to retain the bayonets  212  in place in a direction perpendicular to the radial movements described above. 
     The extent to which the lens  202  extends into the cavity  216  defined by the body  208  may be controlled by contact between a shoulder  266  of the lens and a shoulder  268  of the body, which may respectively extend around outer and inner perimeters thereof. Alternatively, or additionally, an outer end  270  of the body  208  may contact an outer shoulder  272  defined by the lens  202 . Regardless, contact between the lens  202  and the body  208  may be employed to carefully define the extent to which the lens extends into the cavity  216 . Thereby, the clearance between the lens  202  and the end wall  222  of the body  208 , in which the bayonets  212  and the sliding inserts  214  of the first attachment mechanism are received, may be controlled such that the position of the bayonets may be controlled without introducing unnecessary friction resisting movement thereof. 
     As further illustrated in  FIG. 12 , the lens device  200  may also include a sliding ring  274  coupled to an outer surface  276  of the end wall  222  of the body  208 . More particularly, the sliding ring  274  may include protrusions  278  that engage apertures  280  in the end wall  222  of the body  208 . The sliding ring  274  may comprise a material such as Teflon configured to reduce friction such that during attachment of the lens device  200  to the electronic device  234 , the sliding ring may prevent the body  208  of the lens device from scratching the electronic device. Further, the sliding ring  274  may be compressed during coupling between the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  such that the lens device  200  is retained in place. 
     As noted above, accessory devices may transmit forces to the devices they are coupled to during a drop event. In this regard,  FIG. 13  illustrates a drop event in which the system  256  is dropped such that the lens device  200  impacts a surface  282 . During the drop even the first attachment mechanism  204  and the second attachment mechanism  206  may initially be in the secured configuration, as illustrated in  FIG. 14 . However, the drop event may result in a force  284  being applied to the system  256  at a distance  286  from the electronic device  234 . 
     Accordingly, as illustrated in  FIG. 15 , the lens device  200  may release from the electronic device  234 . In this regard, one of the bayonets  212  of the first attachment mechanism  204  may move radially outwardly and travel along a ramped surface  288  (see,  FIG. 16 ) of one of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  as a result of the force  284 . Thus, the bayonets  212 ,  238  of the first and second attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  may separate, and thereby, the attachment mechanisms may release from one another such that the lens device  200  and the electronic device  234  decouple. Thereby, the torque applied to the electronic device  234  through the lens device  200  may be reduced such that the possibility of damage to the electronic device may be reduced. 
     The force required to cause the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  to release without relative rotation therebetween may be adjustable. In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 16 , a ramp angle  290  defined by the ramp surface  288  of the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  may be adjusted. When the ramp angle  290  is defined relative to a direction  292  that is perpendicular to an axis  294  along which the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  are initially joined, a larger ramp angle will decrease the force the required to release the attachment mechanisms without rotation, whereas a smaller ramp angle will increase the force required to release the attachment mechanisms without rotation. 
     The force required to release the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  may also be adjusted in other manners. For example, a distance  296  to which the bayonets  238  of the second attachment mechanism  206  radially extend from a base  298  of the second attachment mechanism  204  may be adjusted. In this regard, increasing the distance  296  may increase the force required to separate the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  without rotation, whereas decreasing the distance may decrease the force required to separate the attachment mechanisms without rotation. 
     Additionally, the force required to separate the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  without rotation may be adjusted by changing a stiffness of the compliance member  210 . In this regard, a softer material may decrease the force required to separate the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  without rotation. Conversely a harder material may increase the force required to separate the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  without rotation. Adjustment of the stiffness of the compliance member  210  may also affect the torque required to secure and release the attachment mechanisms  204 ,  206  via rotation in the same manner. In this regard, a stiffer compliance member  210  may require more torque for rotational attachment and release, and a softer compliance member may require less torque for rotational attachment and release. 
     Embodiments of related methods are also provided. As illustrated in  FIG. 15 , a method may include positioning a plurality of bayonets in a radial configuration with an aperture defined therebetween in a cavity defined by a body at operation  300 . Further, the method may include positioning at least one compliance member between the bayonets and the body to bias the bayonets toward one another at operation  302 . The method may also include restraining rotational movement of the bayonets with respect to the body with a plurality of alignment members configured to allow for radial movement of the bayonets at operation  304 . 
     In some embodiments positioning the compliance member between the bayonets and the body at operation  302  may comprise aligning a plurality of recesses defined in the compliance member with the alignment members. Further, restraining rotational movement of the bayonets at operation  304  may comprise aligning a plurality of recesses defined in the bayonets with the alignment members. The method may further comprise inserting a lens into the body. Also, the method may include inserting one or more sliding inserts between the lens and the bayonets. 
     Although the foregoing disclosure has been described in detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be recognized that the above described disclosure may be embodied in numerous other specific variations and embodiments without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the disclosure. Certain changes and modifications may be practiced, and it is understood that the disclosure is not to be limited by the foregoing details, but rather is to be defined by the scope of the appended claims.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20120907
Publication Date: 20140401
Grant Date: 20140401
Priority Date: 20120907
Inventors: SANFORD EMERY A.
TOSELLI DOMINIC C.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04M1/72409", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B13/001", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B15/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16B21/04", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0264", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/4995", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16B21/04", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T403/602", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49826", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0264", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B13/001", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B15/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/72409", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 50233049