PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9344536-B2
Application Number: US-201213607635-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Accessory attachment mechanisms for an electronic device

Abstract:
Attachment mechanisms that may be employed to attach accessory devices to electronic devices are provided. The attachment mechanism may include a displaceable post that is moveable between deployed and stored configurations. In the deployed configuration an accessory may be attached to the displaceable post, whereas in the stored configuration the displaceable post may be at least partially inaccessible. Movement of the displaceable post may be controlled by cam surfaces, a spring, and a follower. The spring may be conical and configured to fold flat to reduce the height of the attachment mechanism.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An attachment mechanism, comprising:
 a displaceable post comprising a shaft secured with an attachment member configured to engage an accessory device; 
 a cam member having a cam surface; 
 a follower comprising a ring feature surrounding the shaft; 
 a protrusion extending outward from the ring feature to engage the cam surface; and 
 a displacement mechanism comprising a conical spring configured to bias the displaceable post in a direction away from a housing of an electronic device, the displacement mechanism configured to releasably retain the displaceable post in:
 a deployed configuration in which the displaceable post extends from the displacement mechanism and the shaft is exposed; and 
 a stored configuration in which the displaceable post is partially recessed in the displacement mechanism and the shaft is partially inaccessible. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The attachment mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein the attachment member comprises an enlarged head coupled to the shaft. 
     
     
       3. The attachment mechanism of  claim 2 , wherein the displacement mechanism further comprises a first bearing surface and a second bearing surface, the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface configured to stabilize the displaceable post. 
     
     
       4. The attachment mechanism of  claim 3 , wherein the displacement mechanism further comprises:
 a second cam member including a second cam surface; 
 and 
 a mount, wherein the cam surface is surface is located between the mount and the shaft, and wherein the protrusion is configured to move against the cam surface and the second cam surface. 
 
     
     
       5. The attachment mechanism of  claim 4 , further comprising a fastener positioned in an opening of the shaft, the fastener securing the follower with the displaceable post, wherein the fastener includes an extension that engages an end of the conical spring. 
     
     
       6. The attachment mechanism of  claim 4 , wherein the follower fully rotates about a longitudinal axis defined by the displaceable post when the displaceable post travels from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration and then to the deployed configuration. 
     
     
       7. The attachment mechanism of  claim 4 , wherein the cam member and the second cam member are displaced from one another along a longitudinal axis defined by the displaceable post. 
     
     
       8. The attachment mechanism of  claim 7 , wherein in response to a force received at the enlarged head, the protrusion travels from the cam surface to the second cam surface. 
     
     
       9. The attachment mechanism of  claim 7 , wherein in response to a second force received at the enlarged head, the protrusion travels from the second cam surface to the cam surface. 
     
     
       10. The attachment mechanism of  claim 4 , further comprising a cap secured with the mount, wherein the cap and the mount combine to define a cover for the cam member, the second cam member, the follower, and the conical spring. 
     
     
       11. The attachment mechanism of  claim 10 , wherein the mount comprises a threaded region for threaded engaged with the housing. 
     
     
       12. The attachment mechanism of  claim 11 , wherein the conical spring engages the cap. 
     
     
       13. The attachment mechanism of  claim 12 , wherein an angle of the cam surface configured to direct the follower toward the deployed configuration is greater than an angle of cam surface configured to direct the follower toward the stored configuration. 
     
     
       14. An electronic device, comprising
 a housing; and 
 an attachment mechanism disposed on an exterior region of the housing, the attachment mechanism comprising:
 a mount; 
 a displaceable post extending partially through the mount, the displace post secured with an attachment member configured to engage an accessory device; and 
 a displacement mechanism comprising a conical spring configured to bias the displaceable post outwardly, the displacement mechanism further comprising a first cam member, a second cam member, and a follower comprising a protrusion, wherein the displacement mechanism is configured to releasably retain the displaceable post in:
 a deployed configuration in which the displaceable post is exposed to receive the accessory device; and 
 a stored configuration in which the displaceable post is at least partially inaccessible, wherein the displaceable post rotates, relative to the housing, about a longitudinal axis to change from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration, 
 wherein in response to a force to the displace post, the protrusion is configured to move against the first cam member and the second cam member when the displaceable post changes from the deployable configuration to the stored configuration, or vice versa; and 
 
 
 a nut disposed on an interior region of the housing opposite the exterior region, the nut used to couple the attachment mechanism with the housing. 
 
     
     
       15. The electronic device of  claim 14 , wherein when the force is removed from the displaceable post, the conical spring biases the displaceable post away from the housing. 
     
     
       16. The electronic device of  claim 14 , wherein:
 the first cam member comprises a first cam surface formed at a first angle that directs the protrusion toward the deployed configuration, 
 the second cam member comprises a second cam surface formed at a second angle that directs the protrusion toward the stored configuration, and 
 the first angle is greater than the second angle. 
 
     
     
       17. The electronic device of  claim 14 , wherein the displaceable post rotates about the longitudinal axis and relative to the displacement mechanism when the displaceable post changes from the deployable configuration to the stored configuration, or vice versa. 
     
     
       18. The electronic device of  claim 14 , wherein the displaceable post is free of rotation about the longitudinal axis relative to the displacement mechanism when the displaceable post changes from the deployable configuration to the stored configuration, or vice versa. 
     
     
       19. A method for assembling an electronic device having a housing that includes an aperture, the method comprising:
 providing an attachment mechanism comprising:
 a displaceable post comprising a shaft secured with an attachment member configured to engage an accessory device; 
 a cam member having a cam surface; 
 a follower comprising a ring feature surrounding the shaft; 
 a protrusion extending outward from the ring feature to engage the cam surface; and 
 a displacement mechanism comprising a conical spring configured to bias the displaceable post outwardly, the displacement mechanism configured to releasably retain the displaceable post in:
 a deployed configuration in which the displaceable post extends from the displacement mechanism and the attachment member is exposed; and 
 a stored configuration in which the displaceable post is at least partially recessed in the displacement mechanism and the attachment member is at least partially inaccessible; 
 
 
 inserting the attachment mechanism into the aperture in the housing; and 
 securing the attachment mechanism to the housing. 
 
     
     
       20. The method of  claim 19 , wherein inserting the attachment mechanism into the aperture comprises inserting the attachment mechanism into the aperture with the attachment member of the displaceable post positioned proximate an outer surface of the housing. 
     
     
       21. The method of  claim 19 , wherein securing the attachment mechanism to the housing comprises engaging a nut with the attachment mechanism and an inner surface of the housing. 
     
     
       22. The electronic device of  claim 14 , wherein the follower comprises a ring feature surrounding a shaft, wherein the protrusion extends outward with respect to the ring feature.

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. 
     By way of example, in the field of electronic devices, lanyards may be coupled thereto by looping the lanyard through an eyelet coupled to the electronic device to provide a user with a way to secure the device to his or her hand. Further, electronic devices such as cameras may include a female threaded boss configured to receive a male threaded member of a tripod. 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. 
     Accordingly, improved apparatuses and methods for attaching accessory devices may be desirable. 
     SUMMARY 
     Attachment mechanisms configured to couple accessory devices such as lanyards to electronic devices are provided. Various embodiments thereof are described. However, in one example embodiment, an attachment mechanism includes a displaceable post that is moveable between deployed and stored configurations. The displaceable post includes an enlarged head to which an accessory device may be mounted. In the stored configuration, the displaceable post is retracted such that the enlarged head is at least partially inaccessible. For example, the enlarged head may define a smooth surface with the surrounding housing of the electronic device such that the attachment mechanism does not adversely affect the cosmetic appearance of the electronic device. However, when the displaceable post is moved outwardly to the deployed configuration, the enlarged head is exposed and accessible, such that an accessory device may be coupled thereto. 
     The attachment mechanism may include a variety of mechanisms that allow for movement of the displaceable post between the deployed and stored and configurations. For example, a follower may interact with one or more cam surfaces. Further, a spring may retain the displaceable post in the deployed and stored configurations. The spring may be conical and configured to compress into a flat configuration such that the height of the attachment mechanism may be reduced. The attachment mechanism may provide resistance and/or an audible click that provides a user with feedback during movement between the deployed and stored configurations. 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 an electronic device including an attachment mechanism according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an embodiment of an attachment mechanism comprising a post in a recess according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a lanyard accessory device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an attachment mechanism comprising a post magnetically secured in a recess according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a filler element magnetically received in the recess of  FIG. 4  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates an exploded view of an attachment mechanism comprising first and second longitudinally displaced cam members, a spring, and a follower according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a sectional view through the attachment mechanism of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates movement of the follower of  FIG. 6  from a deployed position to an over-travel position; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates movement of the follower of  FIG. 6  from the over-travel position to a recessed position; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates movement of the follower of  FIG. 6  from the recessed position to a second over-travel position; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates movement of the follower of  FIG. 6  from the second over-travel position to the deployed position; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates an exploded view of an attachment mechanism comprising a cam member, two springs, and a follower according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a section view through the attachment mechanism of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates the follower of  FIG. 12  in a deployed position; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates the position of the follower of  FIG. 12  during movement from the deployed position prior to separation from a wall; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates the position of the follower of  FIG. 12  during movement from the deployed position after separation from a wall; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates the follower of  FIG. 12  in a stored configuration; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates an exploded view of an attachment mechanism comprising two laterally displaced cam members, a spring, and a follower according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a sectional view through the attachment mechanism of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates movement of the follower of  FIG. 18  from a deployed position to a recessed position; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates movement of the follower of  FIG. 18  from the recessed position to the deployed position; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a rotational mounting mechanism for an attachment mechanism according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a rotational mounting mechanism for an attachment mechanism including a spacer according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 24  illustrates an exploded view of an attachment mechanism comprising a two laterally displaced cam members, a spring, and a follower comprising pins according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 25  illustrates a perspective view of the attachment mechanism of  FIG. 24 ; 
         FIG. 26  illustrates an exploded view of an attachment mechanism comprising a post that is rotatable between deployed and stored configurations according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 27  illustrates a perspective view of the attachment mechanism of  FIG. 26  in the stored configuration; 
         FIG. 28  illustrates a perspective view of the attachment mechanism of  FIG. 26  in the deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 29  illustrates an exploded view of an attachment mechanism comprising a follower and a spring-loaded post that is rotatable between deployed and stored configurations according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 30  illustrates the follower of  FIG. 29  in a stored position; 
         FIG. 31  illustrates the follower of  FIG. 29  in a deployed position; 
         FIG. 32  illustrates an embodiment of an attachment mechanism comprising a magnetic element and spring configured to retain a displaceable post in stored and deployed configurations according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 33  illustrates an embodiment of an attachment mechanism comprising an flexible dome configured to retain a displaceable post in stored and deployed configurations according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 34  illustrates a post and recess in a housing defining chamfers according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; and 
         FIG. 35  illustrates a schematic diagram of a method for assembling an electronic device 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. 
     Attachment mechanisms may be employed for a variety of purposes. In this regard,  FIG. 1  illustrates an embodiment of an electronic device  100 . The electronic device  100  may comprise a housing  102  and an attachment mechanism  104 . The attachment mechanism  104  may be configured to engage an accessory device, such as a lanyard. 
     Various embodiments of attachment mechanisms may be employed to couple an accessory device to the electronic device  100 . However, by way of example,  FIG. 2  illustrates an embodiment of an attachment mechanism  200 , which may be employed to couple an accessory device such as a lanyard thereto. In this regard, the housing  102  of the electronic device  100  may define a recess  202  in which a post  204  defining a shaft  206  and an enlarged head  208 , which is larger in one or more dimensions than the shaft, is positioned. A gap  210  is provided between the enlarged head  208  of the post  204  and the housing  102 . 
     A lanyard  300  that may be employed in conjunction with attachment mechanisms is illustrated in  FIG. 3 . The lanyard  300  may define a relatively large aperture  302 , a connector aperture  304 , and a relatively small aperture  306 . In use, a user may slide the large aperture  302  over the enlarged head  208  of the post  204  and through the gap  210 . The lanyard  300  may then slide down to the shaft  206  portion of the post  204 . The user may then pull on the lanyard  300  to move the shaft  206  through the connector aperture  304  into the small aperture  306 , wherein the shaft may be retained. Accordingly, the lanyard  300  may be secured to the attachment mechanism  200 . Note that although the attachment mechanisms discussed herein are generally described in terms of use in attaching lanyards to electronic devices, it should be understood that the attachment mechanisms discussed herein may be employed to attach various other embodiments of accessory devices to various other embodiments of devices. 
     An alternate embodiment of an attachment mechanism  400  is illustrated in  FIG. 4 . As illustrated, the housing  102  of the electronic device  100  may define a recess  402 . A magnetic field  404  may be defined proximate the recess  402 . Accordingly, a post  406  defining an opposing magnetic field  408  may be received and secured therein. The post  406  may include a shaft  410  and an enlarged head  412 , as discussed above. Alternatively an accessory device may be directly received in the recess  402 . 
     However, when an accessory device is not needed, a filler element  414  with the same opposing magnetic field  408  may be received in the recess  402 , as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . The filler element  414  may serve to fill the recess  402  until an accessory device is needed. Thereby, as illustrated, a pleasing cosmetic appearance that hides the recess  402  may be provided. For example, the filler element  414  may be substantially flush with the surface of the housing  102 . 
     The attachment mechanisms  200 ,  400  described above may be substantially stationary. Accordingly, the operation thereof is relatively simple. However, stationary attachment mechanisms may be undesirable for cosmetic purposes and/or for ease of use thereof. In this regard, providing attachment mechanisms in recesses may alleviate some cosmetic issues, but may still prove unsatisfactory. Thus, embodiments of attachment mechanisms configured to move between deployed and stored configurations are provided herein. 
     In this regard,  FIG. 6  illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of an attachment mechanism  500  configured to move between deployed and stored configurations.  FIG. 7  illustrates the attachment mechanism  500  in an assembled and deployed configuration. As illustrated, the attachment mechanism  500  may include a displaceable post  502  comprising an attachment member in the form of an enlarged head  504  coupled to a shaft  506 . The attachment mechanism  500  may further comprise a displacement mechanism comprising a mount  508 , first and second cam members  510 ,  512 , a follower  514 , a fastener  516 , a spring  518 , and a cap  520 . The fastener  516  may couple the follower  514  to the displaceable post  502 , although the fastener may couple to the follower such that the follower may be rotatable relative to the displaceable post. In this regard, the displaceable post  502  may be rotatable relative to the housing  102  and the displacement mechanism in some embodiments. The cap  520  may hold the first and second cam members  510 ,  512 , the follower  514 , the fastener  516 , and the spring  518  in the mount  508 . The attachment mechanism  500  may be coupled to the housing  102  of the electronic device  100  via a nut  522 . 
     The first cam member  510  may define a first cam surface  524 , and the second cam member  512  may define a second cam surface  526 . The follower  514  may define one or more protrusions  528  configured to move against and travel between the first cam surface  524  and the second cam surface  526 . The interaction between the follower  514  and the cam members  510 ,  512  may control the movement of the displaceable post  502 . 
     In this regard,  FIGS. 8-11  illustrate movement of the protrusion  528  of the follower  514  with respect to the cam surfaces  524 ,  526  of the cam members  510 ,  512  during movement of the displaceable post  502  between deployed and stored configurations. In particular,  FIG. 8  illustrates movement of the protrusion  528  of the follower  514  during movement from the deployed configuration to an over-travel position. Initially, the protrusion  528  is pressed against the first cam surface  524  and sits in a deployed recess  530 , as a result of the spring  518  acting thereon through the fastener  516 . 
     As a user depresses the enlarged head  504  of the displaceable post  502  inwardly along a longitudinal axis  532  defined by the displaceable post (see,  FIG. 7 ), the protrusion  528  lifts off of the first cam surface  524  out of the deployed recess  530  and then comes into contact with the second cam surface  526 . In this regard, the first cam member  510  and the second cam member  512  are displaced from one another along the longitudinal axis  532 . The second cam surface  526  defines an angle relative to the longitudinal axis  532 , such that the protrusion  528  moves therealong to a first over-travel recess  534  when the protrusion contacts the second cam member  512 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , when the enlarged head  504  is released by the user, the spring  518  displaces the follower  514  out of the first over-travel recess  534  along the longitudinal axis  532  until the protrusion  528  contacts the first cam surface  524 . The protrusion  528  then follows the first cam surface  524  and stops at a stored recess  536  in which the displaceable post  502  is at least partially recessed in the displacement mechanism and the enlarged head  504  is at least partially inaccessible. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates movement of the protrusion  528  from the stored configuration when the user depresses the enlarged head  504  of the displaceable post  502 . As illustrated, the follower  514  is displaced along the longitudinal axis  532  until the protrusion  528  contacts the second cam surface  526 . As a result of the second cam surface  526  defining an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis  532  at this location, the protrusion  528  travels therealong until the protrusion reaches a second over-travel recess  538 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 11 , when the user releases the displaceable post  502 , the follower  514  travels along the longitudinal axis  532  until the protrusion  528  contacts the first cam surface  524 . As a result of the first cam surface  524  defining an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis  532  at this location, the protrusion  528  travels therealong until it returns to the deployed recess  530 . Accordingly, the displaceable post  502  is returned to the initial deployed configuration. 
     Note that as the displaceable post  502  is moved between the deployed and stored configurations, the follower  514  will eventually fully rotate about the longitudinal axis  532  defined by the displaceable post. The fastener  516  may fixedly couple the follower  514  to the displaceable post  502 , such that the displaceable post rotates with the follower. Alternatively, the fastener  516  may couple the follower  514  to the displaceable post  502  such that the follower may rotate without the displaceable post rotating or vice versa. 
     Note that embodiments of the attachment mechanisms provided herein that allow for rotation of the displaceable post without rotation of the parts of the displacement mechanism may be beneficial in that this may prevent the transmission of stresses to the displacement mechanism from the displaceable post resulting from rotational movement of the displaceable post (e.g., due to rotation of an accessory device connected thereto). Conversely, embodiments of the attachment mechanisms provided herein that do not allow for rotation of the displaceable post relative to all or a portion of the displacement mechanism may be beneficial in that this may allow for aligned coupling with an accessory device based on an angular position thereof. 
     Returning to  FIG. 7 , the fastener  516  may also define an extension  540  that engages an end of the spring  518 . By engaging the end of the spring  518 , the fastener  516  may retain the spring in place. In contrast, a typical screw fastener may define a recess at a top thereof. As illustrated, in some embodiments the spring  518  may be conical. The conical configuration may allow the spring  518  to compress flat to a height along the longitudinal axis  532  that is relatively small. For example, the height may be equal to the diameter of the wire defining the spring. In this regard, the pitch of the spring  518  and the diameter thereof may be configured such that the spring may compress flat in this manner. In contrast a cylindrical spring may not compress flat in this manner. Accordingly, use of a spring  518  defining a conical configuration may reduce the size of the attachment mechanism  500 , which may be beneficial in an electronic device. In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the attachment mechanisms described herein may be configured such that the displacement mechanism extends into a major surface of the electronic device (e.g. with a displaceable post extending perpendicularly to the major surface). Since the electronic device may define a relatively small dimension in this direction, in order to satisfy consumer demand for thin electronic devices, attachment mechanisms defining a relatively small height as described above may be desirable. 
     Note, as illustrated in  FIG. 11 , that an angle  542  of the first cam surface  524  configured to direct the follower  514  toward the deployed configuration may be greater than an angle  544  of the first cam surface configured to direct the follower toward the stored configuration. In this regard, the relatively steeper angle  542  of the first cam surface  524  may make it easier for the spring  518  to direct the protrusion into the deployed recess  530 , since the spring is more fully decompressed as it moves to the deployed configuration, as opposed to the stored configuration. Accordingly, the steeper angle  542  may offset the reduced spring force provided by the spring  518  during movement to the deployed configuration. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of an attachment mechanism  600  configured to move between deployed and stored configurations.  FIG. 13  illustrates the attachment mechanism  600  in an assembled and deployed configuration. As illustrated, the attachment mechanism  600  may include a displaceable post  602  comprising an attachment member in the form of an enlarged head  604  coupled to a shaft  606 . The attachment mechanism  600  may further comprise a displacement mechanism comprising a mount  608 , a cam member  610 , a follower  612 , a spring  614 , and a cap  616 . The displacement mechanism may further comprise a second spring  618 . The cap  616  may hold the cam member  610 , the follower  612 , the spring  614 , and the second spring  618  in the mount  608 . The attachment mechanism  600  may be coupled to the housing  102  of the electronic device  100  via a nut  620 . 
     The mount  608  or a separate cam member received therein may define a first cam surface  622 , as illustrated in  FIG. 13 . Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 12 , the cam member  610  may define a second cam surface  624 . The follower  612  may define one or more protrusions  626  configured to move against the first cam surface  622  and the second cam surface  624 . The interaction between the follower  612 , the cam member  610 , and the mount  608  may control the movement of the displaceable post  602 . 
     In this regard,  FIGS. 14-17  illustrate movement of the follower  612  with respect to the cam surfaces  622 ,  624  during movement of the displaceable post  602  between deployed and stored configurations. In particular,  FIG. 14  illustrates the displaceable post  602  in a deployed configuration in which the displaceable post extends from the displacement mechanism and the enlarged head  604  is exposed. As illustrated, in the deployed configuration the protrusion  626  defined by the follower  612  is received in a deployed recess  628  defined by the first cam surface  622 , and held therein by the spring  614 . 
       FIGS. 15 and 16  illustrate movement of the displaceable post  602  when depressed by a user. As illustrated in  FIG. 15 , the follower  612  may define a third cam surface  630  configured to interact with the second cam surface  624  of the cam member  610 . The angles defined by the second cam surface  624  and the third cam surface  630  may interact to create a force  632  on the follower  612 . Initially the force  632  may be resisted as a result of the protrusion  626  remaining in contact with a wall  634  defined by the first cam surface  622 . 
     However, as illustrated in  FIG. 16 , as the displaceable post  602  is depressed further, eventually the protrusion  626  comes out of contact with the wall  634 , and as a result of the force  632  the follower  612  may rotate until the second cam surface  624  and the third cam surface  630  statically align. An audible click may created when the protrusion  626  comes out of contact with the wall  634  and the second cam surface  624  and the third cam surface  630  snap into alignment. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 17 , when the user releases the displaceable post  602 , the spring  614  may force the protrusion  626  defined by the follower  612  into contact with the first cam surface  622 , which may direct the protrusion into a stored recess  636 . Thereby, the displaceable post  602  may be retained in a stored configuration in which the displaceable post is at least partially recessed in the displacement mechanism and the enlarged head  606  is at least partially inaccessible. As illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the second spring  618  may press against the cam member  610  to bias the displaceable post  602  inwardly, such that the displaceable post is retained in the stored configuration. In this regard, the second spring  618  may define a smaller spring rate than the spring  614  such that the protrusion  626  is not forced out of the stored recess  636 . 
     The displaceable post  602  may be returned to the deployed configuration from the stored configuration when a user depresses the displaceable post again. In this regard, the interaction between the protrusion  626  and a wall  638  may function in the same manner as described above. Further, an additional audible click may be produced when the protrusion  626  releases from the wall  638 . 
     An exploded view of an additional embodiment of an attachment mechanism  700  configured to move between deployed and stored configurations is illustrated in  FIG. 18 .  FIG. 19  illustrates the attachment mechanism  700  in an assembled and deployed configuration. As illustrated, the attachment mechanism  700  may include a displaceable post  702  comprising an attachment member in the form of an enlarged head  704  coupled to a shaft  706 . The attachment mechanism  700  may further comprise a displacement mechanism comprising a mount  708 , first and second cam members  710 ,  712 , a follower  714 , first and second piston members  716 ,  718 , a spring  720 , and a cap  722 . The follower  714  may be sandwiched between the first and second piston member  716 ,  718 , with at least one end of the follower defining a protrusion  724  extending therefrom. The shaft  706  of the displaceable post  702  may be received through the first and second piston members  716 ,  718 , and the end of the shaft may be splayed such that the first and second members are retained at the end of the shaft with the follower retained therebetween. The cap  722  may hold the first and second cam members  710 ,  712 , the follower  714 , the first and second piston members  716 ,  718 , and the spring  720  in the mount  708 . The attachment mechanism  700  may be coupled to the housing  102  of the electronic device  100  via a nut  726 . 
     The first cam member  710  and the second cam member  712  may each respectively define both a first cam surface  728  and a second cam surface  730 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 20 , the first cam surface  728  may define a lower cam surface, and the second cam surface  730  may define an upper cam surface. In this regard, the first cam surface and  728  and the second cam surface  730  may be opposing and displaced from one another. 
     More particularly,  FIG. 20  illustrates the movement of the protrusion  724  from a deployed position in which the displaceable post  702  extends from the displacement mechanism and the attachment member is exposed to a stored position in which the displaceable post is at least partially recessed in the displacement mechanism and the enlarged head  704  is at least partially inaccessible. As illustrated, the protrusion  724  may be initially received in a deployed recess  732  defined by the first cam surface  728 . As the displaceable post  702  is depressed, the follower  714  is displaced along a longitudinal axis  734  (see,  FIG. 19 ) of the displaceable post until the protrusion  724  contacts the second cam surface  730 . A lip  736  defined by a change in elevation (into the page in terms of the illustrated view) may force the protrusion  724  to move to the right and contact the second cam surface  730 . 
     Due to the second cam surface  730  defining an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis  730 , the protrusion  724  may move against the second cam surface and then up into a first over-travel recess  738 . As the displaceable post  702  is released, the spring  720  may direct the protrusion  724  in an opposing direction and a lip  740  defined by a change in elevation may direct the protrusion  724  into a stored recess  742  corresponding to the stored configuration. 
     As a user depresses the displaceable post  702  again, a lip  744  defined by a change in elevation and/or the second cam surface  730  may direct the protrusion  724  into a second over-travel recess  746 , as illustrated in  FIG. 21 . Note that the second over-travel recess  746  may be open at an end thereof to allow for assembly of the attachment mechanism  700 . As the user releases the displacement post  702 , the protrusion  724  may return to the deployed recess  732  as assisted by one or both of the first cam surface  728  and a lip  748  defined by a change in elevation. 
     Note that use of the lip  740  may allow the cam member  710  to define a relatively smaller height along the longitudinal axis  734 . In this regard, without use of the lip, the cam member  710  may have to define a path  750  which extends to a greater height, in order to avoid the protrusion falling back into the deployed recess  732  when the displaceable piston  702  is depressed. Accordingly, the lip  740  and the various other lips described above may allow for creation of a relatively smaller attachment mechanism  700 . 
     Operation of the second cam member  712  may be substantially similar to that of the first cam member  710  and occur at substantially the same time. In this regard, the second cam member  712  may also include the first and second cam surfaces  728 ,  730 . Note that although the attachment mechanism  700  is illustrated as including two cam members  710 ,  712  that are separated from one another in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis  734  of the displaceable post  702 , in another embodiment only one of the cam members  710 ,  712  may be employed, although use of two cam mechanisms may assist in maintaining alignment of the displaceable post during operation of the attachment mechanism  700 . 
     Note that although a nut is generally described as being employed to mount the attachment mechanism to a housing, various other embodiments of mounting mechanisms may be employed. For example,  FIG. 22  illustrates use of a mount  800  that includes one or more bayonets  802 . A housing  804  includes an aperture  806  defining a shape that substantially matches the mount  800 , but is slightly oversized to allow the mount to be received therethrough. After being received therethough, the mount  800  may be rotated such that the bayonets  802  are locked into place. For example, the bayonets  802  may be received in recesses  808  defined at an inner surface of the housing  804 . 
       FIG. 23  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment of a mount  900 . The mount  900  is configured to receive a spacer  902  between one or more bayonets  904  and a housing  906 . The spacer  902  may comprise an elastomeric o-ring in some embodiments. Accordingly, interference fit may be provided, as described above with respect to the embodiment of the mount  800  illustrated in  FIG. 22 . However, the spacer  902  may provide a degree of compliance to account for variations in the dimensions of the mount  900  and the housing  906 . Further, the spacer  902  may seal the mount  900  to the housing  906  such that liquid ingress therebetween is resisted. 
     Various other embodiments of attachment mechanisms are also provided. For example,  FIGS. 24 and 25  respectively illustrate exploded and assembled views of an alternate embodiment of an attachment mechanism  1000 . As illustrated, the attachment mechanism  1000  may include a displaceable post  1002  comprising an attachment member in the form of an enlarged head  1004  coupled to a shaft  1006 . The attachment mechanism  1000  may further comprise a displacement mechanism comprising first and second cam members  1008 ,  1010 , a follower including a plate  1012 , a spring  1014 , and one or more bearings or pins  1016 , and a washer  1018 , a spring  1020 , and a cap  1022 . The cap  1022  may hold the first and second cam members  1008 ,  1010 , the follower, and the spring  1020  therein. The first cam member  1008  and the second cam member  1010  may each respectively define a first cam surface  1024  and a second cam surface  1026 . The pins  1016  may be in contact with the cam surfaces  1024 ,  1026  such that the follower moves between deployed and stored configurations, as described above. 
       FIG. 26  illustrates an embodiment of an attachment mechanism  1100  comprising a displaceable post  1102  comprising an enlarged head and a shaft. The attachment mechanism  1100  further comprises a displacement mechanism comprising a receptacle  1104 , a follower  1106 , and a fastener  1108 . The displaceable post  1102  and the receptacle  1104  are inserted through an aperture  1110  in an outer surface  1112  of the housing  102 , and the follower  1106 , and the fastener  1108  are connected thereto proximate an inner surface  1114  of the housing (see, e.g.,  FIG. 27 ). More particularly, the displaceable post  1102  screws into the receptacle  1104 , a clip  1116  engages the housing  102  and the receptacle, and the fastener  1108  holds the follower  1106  to the displaceable post. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 27 , the displaceable post  1102  may be configured in a stored position in which the displaceable post is fully inserted into the receptacle  1104 . However, the displaceable post  1102  may be moved to a deployed position, as illustrated in  FIG. 28 . In order to move the displaceable post  1102  between the stored and deployed positions, the displaceable post may be rotated. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 26 , the displaceable post  1102  may include apertures  1118  configured to receive a tool to allow for rotation thereof, and both the post and the receptacle  1104  may be threaded. 
     As the post  1102  rotates, the follower  1106 , which may be fixed thereto via the fastener  1108 , may also rotate and contact a protrusion  1120  on an outer surface of the receptacle  1104 . This contact may provide the user with a satisfying click and/or increase in force indicative of the displaceable post  1102  reaching the fully deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, a lanyard or other accessory device may be coupled to the displaceable post  1102 , whereas in the stored configuration the displaceable post may be at least partially recessed in the displacement mechanism and the enlarged head may be at least partially inaccessible. 
       FIG. 29  illustrates an additional embodiment of an attachment mechanism  1200 . The attachment mechanism  1200  may include a displaceable post  1202  comprising an enlarged head and a shaft. The attachment mechanism  1200  may further comprise a displacement mechanism comprising a receptacle  1204 , a follower  1206 , a fastener  1208 , a spring  1210 , and a mount  1212 . A clip  1214  may be connected to the mount  1212  such that the displacement assembly is retained in an aperture  1216  in the housing  102 . 
       FIG. 30  illustrates the attachment mechanism in the stored configuration. As illustrated, the receptacle  1204  defines a cam surface  1218  which a protrusion  1220  defined by the follower  1206  moves against. More particularly, the spring  1210  pushes the protrusion  1220  against the cam surface  1218 . As illustrated in  FIG. 30 , the protrusion  1220  may be held in a stored recess  1222  in the stored configuration. However, as illustrated in  FIG. 31 , when a user rotates the displaceable post  1202 , for example by engaging a tool with apertures  1224  defined in the displaceable post, the protrusion  1220  may move against the cam surface  1218  and come to rest in a deployed recess  1226  corresponding to the deployed configuration. 
     An additional embodiment of an attachment mechanism  1300  is illustrated in  FIG. 32 . As illustrated, the attachment mechanism  1300  may comprise a displaceable post  1302  comprising an enlarged head  1304  and a shaft  1306 . A displacement mechanism comprising a magnetic element  1308  and a spring  1310  may be received in a recess  1312  in the housing  102 . The displaceable post  1302  may be received through the magnetic element  1308 . The magnetic element  1308  may define magnetic fields  1312   a,b  that are oppositely oriented relative to magnetic fields  1314   a,b  defined by the displaceable post  1302 . Accordingly, the magnetic element  1308  may push the displaceable shaft  1302  away therefrom. For example, in a stored configuration  1316  the magnetic element  1308  may push inwardly on the displaceable post  1302  such that the displaceable post is at least partially recessed in the displacement mechanism and the enlarged head  1304  is at least partially inaccessible. 
     However, when a user depresses and then quickly releases the displaceable post  1302 , the spring  1310  may force the displaceable post outwardly from the stored configuration  1316  to a deployed configuration  1318  by overcoming the magnetic force. In the deployed configuration the displaceable post  1302  may extend from the displacement mechanism and the enlarged head  1304  may be exposed. The magnetic element  1308  may continue to push against the displaceable post  1302  in the deployed configuration  1318 , but the displaceable post may be retained in the deployed configuration due to coupling with the spring  1308 . 
     Another embodiment of an attachment mechanism  1400  is illustrated in  FIG. 33 . As illustrated, the attachment mechanism  1400  may comprise a displaceable post  1402  comprising an enlarged head  1404  and a shaft  1406 . A displacement mechanism comprising a flexible dome  1408  may be received in a recess  1410  in the housing  102 . The flexible dome  1408 , which may be formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber, may define at least two stable configurations. In this regard, the flexible dome  1408  may be configurable between a protruding position  1412  in which the displaceable post  1402  is in a deployed configuration, and a collapsed position  1414  in which the displaceable post is in a stored configuration. In the deployed configuration the displaceable post  1402  extends from the recess  1410  and the enlarged head  1404  is exposed, and in the stored configuration the displaceable post is at least partially recessed in the recess and the enlarged head is at least partially inaccessible. 
     As described above, many of the attachment mechanisms provided herein may be moveable between deployed and stored configurations. In the deployed configuration an attachment member (e.g., an enlarged head) of a displaceable post thereof may be exposed. For example, the enlarged head may be displaced from a surface of the housing such that a lanyard or other accessory device may be coupled thereto. Conversely, in the stored configuration the attachment member may be at least partially inaccessible. 
     In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 34 , in one embodiment a displaceable post  1500  may include an enlarged head  1502  defining a chamfer  1504  at a perimeter thereof. The chamfer  1504  on the enlarged head  1502  may correspond to a chamber  1506  around a recess  1508  in the housing  102 . Thereby, the two chamfers  1504 ,  1506  may mate to define a smooth, flat exterior surface. Alternatively or additionally, the chamfers  1504 ,  1506  may facilitate movement of the displaceable post  1500  to the stored configuration by facilitating alignment thereof with the recess  1508  in the housing  102 . 
     Alignment of displaceable posts with respect to the corresponding displacement mechanisms and/or recesses in which the attachment mechanisms are positioned may be facilitated in other manners. In this regard, multiple bearing surfaces may be employed to stabilize the displaceable post. For example, the embodiments of attachment mechanisms  500 ,  600 ,  700  illustrated in  FIGS. 7, 13, and 19  each include first  1702 ,  1704 ,  1706  and second  1708 ,  1710 ,  1712  bearing surfaces which stabilize the displaceable posts  502 ,  602 ,  702  thereof. Accordingly, the displaceable posts  502 ,  602 ,  702  may be stabilized such that binding is avoided and smooth operation of the attachment mechanisms  500 ,  600 ,  700  is provided. 
     The attachment mechanisms provided herein may be formed from a variety of materials. In this regard, except where indicated otherwise, the parts of the attachment mechanisms may comprises metals such as stainless steel. In some embodiments the materials may be very small (e.g., the attachment mechanism may define dimensions of no more than 3-4 mm in any given direction. Accordingly, in some embodiments the parts of the attachment mechanisms may be formed by metal injection molding, which may be suitable for the manufacture of such small parts. Further, in some embodiments the parts may define a coating, such as a Teflon-nickel coating, which may assist in maintain smooth movement of the parts during operation. 
     Further, in some embodiments an additional flexible dome (e.g., the flexible dome  1408  illustrated in  FIG. 33 ) may be combined with other embodiments of attachment mechanisms. For example, the flexible dome may be combined in series with a conical spring to require additional effort to provide a user with an indication that a displaceable post is fully depressed. In some embodiments a switch may be positioned such that it is actuated upon depression of the displaceable post. For example, the flexible dome may comprise a dome switch. Thereby, for example, the electronic device may be provided with a signal indicating whether the displaceable post is in the stored or deployed configurations. 
     Embodiments of related methods for assembling an electronic device are also provided. As illustrated in  FIG. 35 , a method may include providing a housing and an attachment mechanism at operation  1600 . The housing may define an aperture and the attachment mechanism may comprise a displaceable post comprising an attachment member configured to engage an accessory device and a displacement mechanism configured to releasably retain the displaceable post in a deployed configuration in which the displaceable post extends from the displacement mechanism and the attachment member is exposed and a stored configuration in which the displaceable post is at least partially recessed in the displacement mechanism and the attachment member is at least partially inaccessible. Further, the method may include inserting the attachment mechanism into the aperture in the housing at operation  1602 . The method may additionally include securing the attachment mechanism to the housing at operation  1604 . 
     In some embodiments inserting the attachment mechanism into the aperture at operation  1602  may comprise inserting the attachment mechanism into the aperture with the attachment member of the displaceable post positioned proximate an outer surface of the housing. Inserting the attachment mechanism into the aperture in the housing at operation  1602  may also comprise overlapping an enlarged head defined by the attachment member with a recess defined at an outer surface of the housing surrounding the aperture. Further, securing the attachment mechanism to the housing at operation  1604  may comprise engaging a nut with the attachment mechanism and an inner surface of the housing. Also, securing the attachment mechanism to the housing at operation  1604  may comprise rotating the attachment mechanism to engage the housing via interference fit. The method may additionally include machining a chamfer at the outer surface of the housing surrounding the recess. 
     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: 20160517
Grant Date: 20160517
Priority Date: 20120907
Inventors: WEBER TRENT
LYNCH STEPHEN B.
SANFORD EMERY A.
MANULLANG TYSON B.
HAVSKJOLD DAVID G.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "Y10T29/49947", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T403/602", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0202", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49947", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0202", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T403/602", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 50231721