US011233356B2

( 12) United States Patent ( 10 ) Patent No.: US 11,233,356 B2

Rohrbach et al . (45 ) Date of Patent : * Jan . 25 , 2022
( 54 ) MAGNETIC CONNECTOR FOR ( 58 ) Field of Classification Search
ELECTRONIC DEVICE CPC HOIR 13/6205 ; HOIR 13/26 ; HOIR 13/24 ;
HOIR 11/30 ; HOIR 23/7073 ; HOIR
( 71 ) Applicant: Apple Inc. , Cupertino, CA (US ) 23/02 ; G06F 1/1633 ; G06F 1/18 ; Y10T
29/49117
( 72 ) Inventors: Matthew Dean Rohrbach , San ( Continued )
Francisco, CA (US ) ; Mark Edward
Doutt , San Jose , CA (US ); Bartley K. ( 56 ) References Cited
Andre , Palo Alto , CA (US ) ; Kanye
Lim , Los Altos , CA (US ); John C. U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
DiFonzo , Emerald Hills , CA (US ); 2,170,287 A 8/1939 Kinnebrew
Jean- Marc Gery, Playa Del Rey, CA 2,234,982 A 3/1941 Ross
( US ) (Continued )
( 73 ) Assignee: Apple Inc. , Cupertino, CA ( US ) FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this CA 2122915 3/1994
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 CN 2523065 11/2002
U.S.C. 154 ( b ) by 0 days. (Continued )
This patent is subject to a terminal dis
claimer . OTHER PUBLICATIONS
( 21 ) Appl. No .: 16 /693,331 Office Action dated Feb. 8 , 2018 in Indian Patent Application No.
1142/CHENP /2014,7 pages.
(22 ) Filed : Nov. 24 , 2019 ( Continued )
(65 ) Prior Publication Data Primary Examiner Gary F Paumen
US 2020/0169035 A1 May 28, 2020 (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm Kilpatrick Townsend &
Stockton , LLP
( 57 ) ABSTRACT
Related U.S. Application Data
An electrical plug and receptacle relying on magnetic force
( 63 ) Continuation of application No. 16/ 147,002 , filed on from an electromagnet to maintain contact are disclosed .
Sep. 28 , 2018 , now Pat . No. 10,490,933 , which is a The plug and receptacle can be used as part of a power
( Continued ) adapter for connecting an electronic device , such as a laptop
computer, to a power supply. The plug includes electrical
( 51 ) Int . Ci . contacts, which are preferably biased toward corresponding
HOIR 13/62 ( 2006.01 ) contacts on the receptacle. The plug and receptacle each
G06F 1/16 ( 2006.01 ) have a magnetic element. The magnetic element on one of
(Continued ) the plug or receptacle can be a magnet or ferromagnetic
( 52) U.S. Cl. material. The magnetic element on the other of the plug or
CPC HOIR 1376205 (2013.01 ) ; GO6F 1/1633 receptacle is an electromagnet. When the plug and recep
( 2013.01 ) ; G06F 1/18 (2013.01 ) ; HOIR 13/24 tacle are brought into proximity, the magnetic attraction
( 2013.01 ) ; Y10T 29/49117 (2015.01 ) (Continued )

360) 3707 382

380

383
376
381
 US 11,233,356 B2
Page 2

between the electromagnet magnet and its complement, 5,704,802

5,812,356
A
A
1/1998
9/1998
Loudermilk
O'Connor
whether another magnet or a ferromagnetic material, main 5,829,987 A 11/1998 Fritsch et al .
tains the contacts in an electrically conductive relationship . 5,836,785 A 11/1998 Lee
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20 Claims , 9 Drawing Sheets 5,873,737 A
5,885,100 A
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5,941,729 A 8/1999 Sri -Jayantha
5,954,520 A 9/1999 Schmidt
Related U.S. Application Data 6,007,363
6,030,229
A
A
12/1999
2/2000
Renk
Tsutsui
continuation of application No. 15 / 650,959 , filed on 6,042,385
6,088,752 A
A 3/2000 Watanabe et al .
7/2000 Ahern
Jul. 16 , 2017 , now Pat . No. 10,090,618 , which is a
.
6,094,122 A 7/2000 Sexton
continuation of application No. 14 / 827,931 , filed on 6,165,006 A 12/2000 Yeh et al .
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6,211,581 B1
2/2001 Harsanyi
4/2001 Farrant
Mar. 18 , 2014 , now Pat. No. 9,112,304 , which is a 6,217,339 B1 4/2001 Tsubata
continuation of application No. 13 / 615,623 , filed on 6,219,267 B1 4/2001 Andres
Sep. 14 , 2012 , now Pat. No. 8,690,582 , which is a 6,238,219 B1 5/2001 Wu
continuation of application No. 13 /421,863 , filed on 6,250,931
6,267,602
B1
B1
6/2001
7/2001
Mendelson
Mendelson et al .
Mar. 16 , 2012 , now Pat . No. 8,435,042 , which is a 6,340,302 B1 1/2002 Ladd
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Dec. 13 , 2011 , now Pat . No. 8,177,560 , which is a 6,419,521 B2 7/2002 Kanagawa et al .
continuation of application No. 13 /028,195 , filed on2 6,431,902 B1 8/2002 Yeh
Feb. 15 , 2011 , now Pat . No. 8,087,939 , which is a 6,464,509 B1 10/2002 Emberty et al.
continuation of application No. 12 / 581,010 , filed on 6,466,718 B1 10/2002 Linnell
Oct. 16 , 2009 , now Pat. No. 7,901,216 , which is a 6,478,614 B1 11/2002 De'Longhi
6,485,338 B1 11/2002 Wu
continuation of application No. 12 /410,457 , filed on 6,522,033 B1 2/2003 Nevo
Mar. 24 , 2009 , now Pat . No. 7,645,143 , which is a
2 6,527,570 B1 3/2003 Hartman et al .
continuation of application No. 11 / 876,733 , filed on 6,528,746 B2
6,545,577 B2
3/2003 DeWitt et al.
4/2003 Yap
Oct. 22 , 2007 , now Pat. No. 7,517,222 , which is a 6,561,815 B1 5/2003 Schmidt
continuation of application No. 11 / 235,875 , filed on 6,565,363 B2 5/2003 Downing
Sep. 26 , 2005 , now Pat . No. 7,311,526 . 6,595,801 B1 7/2003 Leonard et al .
6,607,391 B2 8/2003 Mendelson et al .
( 51 ) Int . Ci. 6,616,468 B2 9/2003 Sakiyama
G06F 1/18 ( 2006.01 ) 6,623,276 B2 9/2003 Damau Ferrerfabrega
HOIR 13/24 ( 2006.01 ) 6,663,415 B1 12/2003 Wu et al .
6,727,477 B1 4/2004 Li - Chen
( 58 ) Field of Classification Search 6,733,333 B1 5/2004 Chen
USPC 439/ 38–40 , 660 6,773,312 B2 8/2004 Bauer et al.
See application file for complete search history. 6,814,626
6,815,610
B2
B2
11/2004
11/2004
Wen - Yao
Kuboshima et al .
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U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 1 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

10
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U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 2 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

60 100
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U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 3 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

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U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 4 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

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320

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U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 5 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

342

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U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 6 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

360) 3707
FIG . 11A

382
-376 372
380 360
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3607 3707 382
380 FIG . 12A
383
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381 -360
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U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 7 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

70

74 -460 ; -76
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430

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U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 8 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

6307 600
608
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632 604 612
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-610
622

FIG . 14

6307 (
600

620 606 602

608
640 o

632 6041 644

624
642
-622

FIG . 15

630 ) 600

BER
608
-626 606 602
632 604 , 650
-624
-620
boot
FIG . 16
U.S. Patent Jan. 25 , 2022 Sheet 9 of 9 US 11,233,356 B2

6307 600
-608
1
662 1 660 606 602
604 650
632 -624
620

FIG . 17

6307 1600 608

627 606 602
632 6047 670
1
624

620

FIG . 18
 US 11,233,356 B2
1 2
MAGNETIC CONNECTOR FOR male and female connectors 30 and 40 are still connected
ELECTRONIC DEVICE together. In addition to conventional power connections,
damage of other types of connections to electronic devices
CROSS - REFERENCE TO RELATED can also occur in the same ways described above .
APPLICATIONS 5
In general, the surface area of two magnetically attracted
halves determines the number of magnetic flux lines and
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent applica- therefore the holding force between them because the hold
tion Ser. No. 16 / 147,002 , filed Sep. 28 , 2018 , which is a ing force is proportional to the contact area between the two
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 650,959 , magnetically attracted halves . Thus, to have a strong force
filed Jul . 16 , 2017 , which is a continuation of U.S. patent 10 holding the two magnetically attracted halves together, the
application Ser. No. 14/ 827,931 , filed Aug. 17 , 2015 , now two magnetically attracted halves want to be as large as
U.S. Pat . No. 9,711,893 , which is a continuation of U.S. possible .
patent application Ser. No. 14 /218,907 , filed Mar. 18 , 2014 , The subject ma of the present disclosure is directed
now U.S. Pat. No.9,112,304 , which is aa continuation of U.S. overcoming, or at least reducing the effects of, one or more
patent application Ser. No. 13 / 615,623 , filed Sep. 14 , 2012 , 15 of the problems set forth above.
now U.S. Pat . No. 8,690,582 , which is aa continuation of U.S.
2

patent application Ser. No. 13 /421,863 , filed Mar. 16 , 2012 , SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
now U.S. Pat . No. 8,435,042 , which is aa continuation of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13 / 325,024 , filed Dec. 13 , 2011 , A magnetic connector that relies on magnetic force for
now U.S. Pat.No. 8,177,560 , which is a continuation of U.S. 20 maintaining contact is disclosed . The magnetic connector
a
patent application Ser. No. 13 / 028,195 , filed Feb. 15 , 2011 , includes a plug and a receptacle . In one embodiment, the
now U.S. Pat . No. 8,087,939 , which is a continuation of U.S. plug and receptacle can be used as part of a power adapter
application Ser. No. 12 / 581,010 filed Oct. 16 , 2009 , now for connecting an electronic vice , such as a laptop com
U.S. Pat . No. 7,901,216 , which is a continuation of U.S. puter, to a transformer connectable to a power supply. The
patent application Ser. No. 12 /410,457 , filed Mar. 24 , 2009 , 25
plug includes a plurality of electrical pins , which are pref
now U.S. Pat . No. 7,645,143 , which is aa continuation ofU.S. erably biased towards a corresponding plurality of contacts
patent application Ser. No. 11 / 876,733 , filed Oct. 22 , 2007 , positioned on the receptacle. The plug and receptacle each
now U.S. Pat . No. 7,517,222 , which is a continuation of U.S. have a magnetic element. The magnetic element on one or
patent application Ser. No. 11 /235,875 , filed Sep. 26 , 2005 , both of the plug and receptacle can be a magnet, which is
now U.S. Pat . No. 7,311,526 , which are incorporated by 30 preferably a permanent rare earth magnet although electro
reference . magnets may also be used . A ferromagnetic element can be
used for the magnetic element on the plug or receptacle that
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE does not include a magnet . When the plug and receptacle are
brought into proximity, the magnetic attraction between the
The subject matter of the present disclosure generally 35 magnet and its complement, whether another magnet or a
relates to a magnetic connector for an electronic device and ferromagnetic material, magnetically couples the plug and
more particularly relates to an electromagnetic connector for the receptacle and maintains the pins and contacts in an
a power adapter connecting a laptop computer to a power electrically conductive relationship . The magnetic connector
supply allows the plug to break away from the receptacle if the plug
40 or receptacle is inadvertently moved ( with sufficient force)
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE while still connected .
The foregoing summary is not intended to summarize
Electronic devices , such as laptop computers , typically each potential embodiment or every aspect of the present
use DC power supplied from a transformer connected to a disclosure .
conventional AC power supply. Referring to FIG . 1 , a power 45
adapter 20 according to the prior art is illustrated . The power BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
adapter 20 has a transformer 22 , a power cable 26 , a male
connector 30 , and a female connector 40. The transformer 22 The foregoing summary , preferred embodiments, and
has a plug 24 for connecting to a conventional AC power other aspects of subject matter of the present disclosure will
outlet (not shown ), and the male connector 30 is connected 50 be best understood with reference to a detailed description of
to the transformer 22 by power cable 26. The female specific embodiments, which follows, when read in con
connector 40 is typically attached to the housing 12 of an junction with the accompanying drawings , in which :
electronic device 10 , such as a laptop computer, and is FIG . 1 illustrates a power adapter having a power con
typically attached to a printed circuit board 14 of the internal nection according to the prior art.
electronics of the device 10. To make the conventional 55 FIG . 2 illustrates a type of possible damage resulting from
power connection between the transformer 22 and the device the prior art power connection .
10 , the male connector 30 has a male end 32 that inserts into
9 FIG . 3 illustrates a cross - sectional view of an embodiment
the female connector 40. Connectors for portable computers of a magnetic connector according to certain teachings of the
are preferably as small as possible and low profile for present disclosure.
today's thin notebooks . 60 FIG . 4 illustrates a front view of a receptacle of the
Damage can occur to the conventional power connection magnetic connector of FIG . 3 .
in a number of ways. In one example, simply inserting the FIG . 5 illustrates a front view of a plug of the magnetic
male connector 30 into the female connector 40 can cause connector of FIG . 3 .
damage. In another example shown in FIG . 2 , damage can FIG . 6 illustrates an ability of the disclosed magnetic
occur when any of the components ( e.g. , the device 10 , male 65 connector to prevent possible damage .
2

connector 30 , transformer 22 , etc.) is inadvertently pulled

9 FIG . 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the mag
away from other components by a non - axial force while the netic connector of FIG . 3 .
 US 11,233,356 B2
3 4
FIGS . 8A - 8B illustrate a plug of another embodiment of on the plug body 112. In a preferred embodiment and as
a magnetic connector according to certain teachings of the shown in FIG . 3 , the first electrical contacts 120 are pref
present disclosure. erably plated and spring loaded pins to maintain contact with
FIGS . 9A - 9B illustrate a receptacle for the plug of the the corresponding contacts on the receptacle 150. The pins
disclosed magnetic connector of FIGS . 8A - 8B . 5 120 are held in housings 124 and are connected to the wires
FIG . 10 illustrates a perspective view of the plug and 116 of the cable 114. Springs 122 bias the pins 120 so that
receptacle for the disclosed magnetic connector of FIGS . they extend from the face 118 of the plug body 112. In the
8A - 8B and 9A - 9B . present embodiment, the first magnetic element 130 is
FIGS . 11A - 11B illustrate an embodiment of a magnetic embedded in the face 118 of the plug body 112 .
connector according to certain teachings of the present 10 The receptacle 150 has a body 152 connected to the
disclosure having a plurality of magnets and aa back plate . housing 62 of the second device 60. The body 152 has a face
FIGS . 12A - 12B illustrate another embodiment of a mag- 158 , a plurality of second electrical contacts 160 , and a
netic connector according to certain teachings of the present second magnetic element 140. In a preferred embodiment
disclosure having a plurality of magnets and aa back plate . and as shown in FIG . 3 , the second electrical contacts 160
FIGS . 13A- 13B illustrate embodiments of magnetic con- 15 are plates embedded in the face 158 of the body 152 and
nectors according to certain teachings of the present disclo- electrically connected to the internal electronics 64 by wires
sure having electromagnets. 162 or the like . In addition , the second magnetic element 170
FIG . 14 illustrates an embodiment of a magnetic connec- is embedded in the face 118 of the body 152 .
tor according to certain teachings of the present disclosure To make the electrical connection between the first and
having an electromagnet and switch element . 20 second devices 50 and 60 , the face 118 of the plug 110 is
FIG . 15 illustrates an embodiment of a magnetic connec- positioned against the face 158 of the receptacle 150. The
tor according to certain teachings of the present disclosure pins 120 on the plug 110 engage the plates 160 on the
having an electromagnet and a proximity sensor. receptacle 150. Thus, the wires 116 connected to the first
FIG . 16 illustrates an embodiment of a magnetic connec- device 50 are electrically connected to the wires 162 con
tor according to certain teachings of the present disclosure 25 necting to the internal electronics 64 of the second device
having an electromagnet and fault detector. 60. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, electrical
FIG . 17 illustrates an embodiment of a magnetic connec- connection between pointed pins 120 and substantially flat
tor according to certain teachings of the present disclosure plates 160 is preferred for a number of reasons, such as
having two electromagnets and fault detector. issues related to Hertzian stresses around a contact point and
FIG . 18 illustrates an embodiment of a magnetic connec- 30 issues related to contact asperities or aspots .
tor according to certain teachings of the present disclosure To maintain the electrical connection, the attractive force
having an electromagnet and control circuitry . between the first and second magnetic elements 130 and 170
While the disclosed magnetic connectors are susceptible holds the plug 110 to the receptacle 150. In one embodiment,
to various modifications and alternative forms, specific both magnetic elements 130 and 170 are magnets, either
embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example 35 permanent or electromagnetic, arranged to attract magneti
in the drawings and are herein described in detail . The cally to one another. In an alternative embodiment, either
figures and written description are not intended to limit the magnetic element 130 or 170 is a magnet, either permanent
scope of the inventive concepts in any manner. Rather, the or electromagnetic , while the other complementary element
figures and written description are provided to illustrate the is a ferromagnetic material. The permanent magnet used for
inventive concepts to a person skilled in the art by reference 40 the magnetic elements is preferably a permanent rare earth
to particular embodiments, as required by 35 U.S.C. $ 112 . magnet because rare earth magnets have a high flux density
compared to their size . When the plug 110 and receptacle
DETAILED DESCRIPTION 150 are brought into proximity, the attractive force between
the magnetic elements 130 and 170 maintains the contacts
Referring to FIG . 3 , an embodiment of a magnetic con- 45 120 and 160 in an electrically conductive relationship .
nector 100 according to certain teachings of the present The magnetic attraction or force of the plug 110 coupled
disclosure is illustrated in a cross -sectional view. The mag- to the receptacle 150 can be configured for a particular
netic connector 100 includes a first connector or plug 110 implementation as desired. For embodiments of the mag
and a second connector or receptacle 150. The plug 110 is netic connector 100 used for a power adapter, the magnetic
connectable to a first device or electrical relation 50 , while 50 field produced by the magnetic attraction between the ele
the receptacle 150 is connectable to a second device 60. In ments 130 and 170 is small enough not to interfere with the
one embodiment, the first device 50 a transformer, and the supply of power through the electrical contacts 120 and 160 .
second device 60 is an electronic device, such as a laptop Because magnetic fields of the elements 130 and 170 may
computer, having a housing 62 and internal electronics 64 . interfere with the internal electronics 64 and other compo
Therefore , in one embodiment, the magnetic connector 100 55 nents of the device 60 , the receptacle 150 may be positioned
can be part of a power adapter for connecting the laptop on the housing 150 at a location away from various com
computer 60 to a conventional AC power supply (not ponents. For example, the receptacle 150 may be positioned
shown ) with the transformer 50. For a standard laptop away from disk drives, USB ports , internal busses , etc. of a
computer, the magnetic connector 100 is preferably rated for laptop computer. Alternatively , the elements 130 and 170
6 A at 24V, and the plug 110 and receptacle 150 can both be 60 may be shielded from various components of the electronic
approximately 4 -mm tall and 6 -mm wide. device, or a flux bar may be used to direct any magnetic flux
The plug 110 includes a plug body 112 having a face 118 of the elements 130 and 170 away from various components .
and connected to a cable 114. Preferably , the body 112 is In one embodiment shown in the front view of FIG . 4 , the
composed of aa conventional non - conductive material. The receptacle 150 has four electrical plates 160 positioned
body 112 houses internal wires 116 of the cable 114 , which 65 around the centrally located magnetic element 170. The
connects to the first device 50. A plurality of first electrical body 152 of the receptacle is oval or oblong and has two
contacts 120 and a first magnetic element 130 are positioned axes of symmetry. For the embodiment of the receptacle 150
 US 11,233,356 B2
5 6
requiring DC power, two of the electrical plates 160 ( + ) may receptacle 150 , it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art
be positive contacts , and two of the plates 120 ( - ) may be that aa number of guides and techniques can be used to ensure
negative contacts. Various arrangements are possible and proper alignment .
would be within the abilities on one skilled in the art . Referring to FIGS . 8A - 8B and 9A - 9B , another embodi
In the embodiment shown in the front view of FIG . 5 , the 5 ment of a magnetic connector according to certain teachings
9

plug 110 is made to correspond with the arrangement of the plugof the present disclosure is illustrated . A first connector or
receptacle 150 in FIG . 4. Therefore, the body 112 of the plug 310 of the magnetic connector is shown in a partial side
110 is also oval , and the plug has four pins 120 positioned cross - section and in a front view of FIGS . 8A - 8B . A second
around the magnetic element 130 , which is centrally located connector or receptacle 350 of the magnetic connector is
on the plug 110. For the embodiment of the plug 110 10 shown. 9Ain -a9Bpartial
FIGS . Bothside
the cross
plug -310
section
and and in a front350view
receptacle of
can be
connected to an AC to DC transformer, two of the electrical at least partially composed of transparent, non - conductive
contacts 120 ( + ) are positive contacts, and two of the contacts material and can include internal lights, such as LEDs , to
120 ( - ) are negative contacts. illuminate them .
The arrangement of the pins 120 and plates 160 is 15 As shown in FIGS . 8A - 8B , the plug 310 includes a body
symmetrical along the axes of symmetry defined by the oval 312 , a plurality of pins 320 , and a first magnetic element
or oblong shape of the bodies 112 and 152. In this way, the 330 , and aa shell 340. The body 312 is made of any suitable
.
plug 110 and receptacle 150 can be coupled in only two non - conductive material and has an oblong shape with two
ways , and proper alignment of positive pins 120 ( + ) with axes of symmetry A , and A2 . The body 312 houses internal
positive plates 160 ( + ) and of negative pins 120 ( - ) with 20 wires 316 of aa cable 314 , which connect the pins 320 to a
negative plates 160 ( - ) will be ensured . Although the plug first device (not shown ), such as a transformer, for example.
110 and receptacle 150 are shown having one magnetic The pins 320 are biased by springs , and the pins 320 extend
element 130 and 170 each , it will be appreciated that each from a face 318 , which is slightly recessed in the plug body
can include one or more magnetic elements. In addition , it 312. The first magnetic element 330 is positioned on the end
will be appreciated that the plug 110 and receptacle 150 can 25 of the plug body 312. As best shown in FIG . 8B , the first
each have one or more contacts, depending on the type of magnetic element 330 surrounds the recessed face 318 of the
electrical connection to be made . For example, additional body 318 .
pins and contacts may be symmetrically arranged around the For the embodiment of the plug 310 connected to a
plug 110 and receptacle 150 for passing electrical signals transformer, the centrally located pin 320 can be designated
between two devices , such as a laptop computer and power 30 for signals used by the electronic device to determine the
adapter. type of transformer or other device attached by the plug 310 .
Referring to FIG . 6 , an ability of the magnetic connector The two outer located pins 320 can be designated for the
100 to prevent possible damage is illustrated . The magnetic positive DC power, and the outer shell 340 is designated for
connector 100 substantially avoids damage because male the return path of DC power. In this way , any orientation of
components are not required to have an interference fit with 35 the plug 310 will ensure proper connection of positive pins
female components to maintain both electrical and mechani- 320 ( + ) and signal pin 320 ( S ) of the plug 310 with corre
cal connection . Instead , a user of the connector 100 needs sponding contacts of the receptacle (350 ; FIGS . 9A - 9B ) .
only to position the faces 118 and 158 of the plug 110 and Using the outer shell 340 for the return path is preferred
receptacle 150 against or away from one another when because the plug 310 can have a smaller profile. In an
making or releasing the electrical and magnetic connection 40 alternative embodiment, however, the return path can be
therebetween . Being biased towards plates 160 , the pins 120 provided by additional pins ( not shown) on the plug 310 and
can avoid damage while still maintaining contact with the receptacle 350. For example, two additional pins ( not
plates 160. In addition, the magnetic connector 100 can shown) for the additional return path could be provided and
substantially avoid damage by allowing the plug 110 and symmetrically arranged on the plug 310 such that the pins
receptacle 150 to break free of one another when inadver- 45 would only align with corresponding contacts ( not shown )
tently pulled away from each other by a non - axial force . of the receptacle 350 regardless of the orientation in which
Although shown slightly recessed in the device 60 , the face the plug 310 is coupled to the receptacle 350 .
158 of the receptacle 150 can also be flush with the housing As shown in FIGS . 9A - 9B , the receptacle 350 has a body
or can protrude therefrom . However, the recess is used to 352 , a plurality of contacts 360 , and a second magnetic
prevent stray magnetic fields from interfering with other 50 element 370 , and aa shell 380. The body 352 has a casing 356
devices. with legs 357 for mechanical connection to a printed circuit
Referring to FIG . 7 , another embodiment of a magnetic board of internal electronics of a second device (not shown ),
connector 200 according to certain teachings of the present such as a laptop computer, for example . The casing 356 can
disclosure is illustrated . This embodiment is substantially be composed of aa conductive or non - conductive material.
similar to the embodiment of FIGS . 3 through 5 so that like 55 The body 352 has an oblong shape with two axes of
reference numbers indicate similar components. In contrast symmetry A , and A, and is made of any suitable non
to previous embodiments , the receptacle 250 in this embodi- conductive material. As best shown in FIG . 9B , the body 352
ment is not housed in a device (not shown) to which it is also has snap connectors 359 for mechanical connection to
connected as with previous embodiments. Rather, the recep- a mounting base (not shown ). In addition, the receptacle 350
tacle 250 resembles the plug 110 in that it has a body 252 60 has pins 364 for connecting the contacts 360 to internal
that connects to the device with a cable 254. In addition , the electronics of the device .
bodies 112 and 252 of the plug 110 and receptacle 150 are The body 352 has an end 354 intended to extend outside
substantially round . To ensure proper alignment of the pins the device housing the receptacle 350. This end 354 may be
120 with the plates 160 , the plug 10 and receptacle 150 have illuminated by techniques known in the art. The contacts 360
complementary guides 119 and 159 that allow for only one 65 are positioned in aa face 358 of the body 352. In the present
way of coupling them together. Although the guides 119 and embodiment, the contacts 360 are substantially flat plates
159 are shown on the faces 118 and 158 of the plug 110 and electrically connected to the pins 364 by wires 362. The
 US 11,233,356 B2
7 8
second magnetic element 370 is positioned about the face As best shown in FIG . 11A , the plug 370 has magnets 380 ,
358 , and the second magnetic element 370 is preferably 382 positioned on both sides of a plurality of contacts 376 ,
recessed from the face 358. Preferably, the recess of the which are similar to other contacts disclosed herein . For
second magnetic element 370 is slight and is comparable to example, the central contact 376 is designated for aa first path
the recess of the face (318 ) of the plug ( 310 ) in FIG . 8A . For 5 of electrical communication , and the two outer contacts 376
the embodiment of the receptacle 350 intended to connect are designated for a second path of electrical communica
DC power to the device, the plates 360 are arranged to tion . Preferably, the contacts 376 are biased pins where the
correspond with the positive pins ( 320 ( + ) ) and signal pin central pin 376 carries a signal path and the two side pins
( 320 ( S ) ) of the plug ( 310 ) of FIGS . 8A - 8B , as described carry a positive current. The magnets 380 , 382 are arranged
previously 10 with opposite polarities, as indicated by the direction of the
To make the electrical connection , the face 318 of the plug arrows in FIG . 11A . Preferably, the magnets 380 , 382 are
310 of FIG . 8A is positioned against the face 358 of the also designated for a third path of electrical communication .
receptacle 350 of FIG . 9A . The pins 320 on the plug 310 As best shown in FIG . 11B , the plug 370 also has aa back
engage the plates 360 on the receptacle 350. To maintain the plate 372 connected between the back ends of the magnets
connection , the first and second magnetic elements 330 and 15 380 , 382. The back plate 372 is made of a ferromagnetic
370 magnetically couple together and hold the plug 310 to material, such as steel . The receptacle 390 has an attraction
the receptacle 350. In one embodiment, the magnetic ele- plate 392 also made of a ferromagnetic material, such as
ments 330 and 370 are both permanent magnets ( preferably steel . When the attraction plate 392 of receptacle 390 is
rare earth magnets) arranged to magnetically couple attracted to the magnets 380 , 382 , the magnetic field lines
together. In another embodiment, one of the magnetic ele- 20 travel through the steel attraction plate 392 from one magnet
ments 330 and 370 can be a permanent magnet ( preferably to the other, completing the magnetic circuit and producing
a rare earth magnet) or an electromagnet while the other a strong attracting force .
element is a ferromagnetic material. Once coupled , the The attraction plate 392 of receptacle 390 defines an
magnetic connector 300 allows the plug 310 to break away opening 394 for passage of the electrical contacts (not
from the receptacle 350 in the event of inadvertent pulling 25 shown in FIG . 11B ) . Likewise , the back plate 372 of the plug
of the plug 310 or the like . 370 defines openings 374 for passage of leads from the
Referring to FIG . 10 , additional details of the plug 310 electrical contacts (not shown ). As noted above , the magnets
and receptacle 350 for the disclosed magnetic connector of 380 , 382 can form a path of electrical communication
FIGS . 8A - 8B and 9A - 9B are illustrated in a perspective between the receptacle 390 and the plug 370. Preferably, the
view. Portions of the plug 310 and receptacle 350 are not 30 magnets 380 and 382 and the attraction plate 392 carry
illustrated so that various details can be better shown . On the negative current. Thus, the attraction plate 392 of the recep
plug 310 , the shell 340 abuts the magnetic element 330 , tacle 390 includes a connector 396 for connecting to an
which can be a ferromagnetic material. The shell 340 has an electrical lead or the like ( not shown) .
extension 342 for connecting to the return path of the power Because the connector 360 is designed to be compact and
supply from the adapter (not shown ) to which the plug 310 35 have a low profile for fitting into a laptop or the like, the
is connected. Three connectors 322 ( + ) , 322 ( S ) , and 322 ( + ) plates 372 and 392 must give up a certain amount of material
extend from the back end of the body 312 for connecting the to produce the openings 374 and 394. When the attraction
pins (not shown) with the positive power and signal from plate 392 and magnets 380 , 382 are coupled, magnetic
adapter to which the plug 310 is connected . attractive force can be limited because the flux density can
On the receptacle 350 , the shell 380 for the return path of 40 saturate the narrower portions of ferromagnetic material in
the power is positioned within the casing 356 , and the 2 both the attraction plate 392 and the back plate 374. ( There
magnetic element 370 , which can be a permanent magnet, is
2 fore , it may be desirable to use more than two magnets with
positioned within the shell 380. An opening 372 through the the connector, as disclosed in the embodiment below ) . It
magnetic element 370 allows for passage of body material may be desirable to have more than two magnets within the
( not shown) and contacts ( not shown ), as disclosed previ- 45 connector for two reasons . First , magnetic strength is a
ously . Tabs or holders 382 of the shell 380 contact and hold function of magnet thickness to cross section ratio (with
the magnetic element 370. A leg 384 of the shell 380 extends thickness being defined by the dimension along the direction
from the receptacle 350 as do legs 357 of the casing 356 . of magnetization ). Second, for a given envelop , the leakage
When the plug 310 is coupled with the receptacle 350 , the field associated with more than two permanent magnets is
ferromagnetic material 330 of the plug 310 positions against 50 less than the leakage field associated with one or two
the permanent magnet 370 and the inside of the casing 380 permanent magnets .
of the receptacle 350. Thus, the magnetic engagement Referring to FIGS . 12A - 12B , another embodiment of a
between the ferromagnetic material 330 and the permanent magnetic connector 360 according to certain teachings of the
magnet 370 holds the plug 310 to the receptacle. Moreover, present disclosure is illustrated . The magnetic connector 360
the physical engagement between the ferromagnetic mate- 55 in FIGS . 12A- 12B is substantially similar to that disclosed
rial 330 and the casing 380 creates the return path for power above so those like numerals indicate similar components
from the receptacle's shell pin 384 to the plug's shell pin between the embodiments . In the present embodiment, how
342 . ever, the plug 370 houses four magnets 380 , 381 , 382 , and
Referring to FIGS . 11A - 11B , an embodiment of a mag- 383. Again , the magnets 380 , 381 , 382 , and 383 are arranged
netic connector 360 according to certain teachings of the 60 with opposite polarities, as indicated by the arrows in FIG .
present disclosure is illustrated . The connector 360 is com- 12A . In the present embodiment, the four magnets 380 , 381 ,
pact and preferably has a low profile. In FIG . 11A , a plug 382 , and 383 form four magnetic circuits for the travel of
370 of the connector 360 is shown in aa front perspective . In magnetic flux . Accordingly, most of the flux travels between
FIG . 11B , some of the internal components of plug 370 and magnets on the same side (e.g. , between magnets 380 , 381
a receptacle 390 are shown in a back perspective . The 65 on the same side and between magnets 382 , 383 on the same
receptacle 390 is housed in an electronic device (not shown ), side) . Because the flux lines are not constrained by the
and the plug 370 attaches to a cord or the like ( not shown ). narrow portions of the plates 372 and 392 , the flux density
 US 11,233,356 B2
9 10
is less likely to saturate the plates 372 and 392. Therefore, connector 500 includes a plug 510 and a receptacle 550. The
the magnetic attractive force between the receptacle 390 and receptacle 550 is not substantially different from that dis
the plug 370 having four magnets 380-384 can be signifi- closed in the embodiment of FIG . 9A - 9B . The receptacle
cantly greater than available in the embodiment of FIGS . 550 has contacts 560 for conveying power and signals to
11A - 11B , even though both embodiments have the same 5 internal electronics 76 of the device 70. The receptacle 550
contact area . also has a magnetic element 570 , which can be a ferromag
As noted previously, the magnetic attraction or force netic material. The plug 510 has contacts 520 for conveying
coupling the plug 370 and the receptacle 390 can be con- power and signals from a power supply, such as power
figured as desired for a given implementation . In one adapter 80 , via wires 522 of a cable 86. In contrast to
embodiment, a straight pullout force to uncouple the plug 10 previous embodiments, the plug 510 has an electromagnet
370 from the receptacle 390 is preferably between 3-1bf and formed by a metal core 530 wrapped by a wire coil 532. The
7-1bf. It should be noted that pulling the plug 370 out coil 532 is connected to a power supply by wires 534. For
sideways, up , or down can produce torque. Preferably, the example, the coil 532 can draw power output from the
magnetic attraction produces less torque in the up direction transformer 82 of the adapter 80 , form a conventional power
but produces more torque in the other directions . Target 15 supply to which the outlet plug 88 connects, or from a
torque values can be 0.5 kgf -cm for the up direction and 0.7 battery 84 housed internally in the adapter 80. Use of the
to 1.5 kgf -cm in the other directions . battery 84 can overcome the need for a user to first connect
In one aspect , the asymmetrical torque values can be the adapter 80 to the power supply before the electromagnet
achieved by extending the upper magnets 380 and 382 in the plug 510 is operated and can magnetically connect to
upwards. In this way, the upper magnets 380 and 382 are 20 the receptacle 550. The drawn power energizes the electro
stronger and provide more attraction upwards than the lower magnet of core 530 and coil 532 to produce a magnetic
magnets 381 and 383. One resulting effect is that there can attraction to the ferromagnetic material 570 that can hold the
be more holding force and displacement of the application plug 510 to the receptacle 550 .
point of the force upward, subsequently leading to more Referring to FIG . 14 , an embodiment of a magnetic
torque . This also helps compensate for any downward torque 25 connector 600 according to certain teachings of the present
that may be produced by a cable ( not shown ) coupled to the disclosure is illustrated . The connector 600 has a plug 602
plug 370. In another aspect , the asymmetrical torque values having contacts 604 and an electromagnet 606. The connec
can be achieved by changing the angle of the magnetic flux tor 600 also has a receptacle 620 positioned on a portable
lines in the upper magnets 380 and 382. For example, the computer or electronic device 630. The receptacle 620 has
separate, upper magnets 380 and 382 can have flux direction 30 an attraction plate or magnet 622 and contacts 624. The
that point downward at an approximately 20 -degree angle in contacts 624 act as paths for electrical communication so
comparison to the direction of coupling . that they are electrically coupled to internal electronics 632
Referring to FIG. A , an embodiment of a magnetic of electronic device 630. In add the attraction plate or
connector 400 having an electromagnet is illustrated . The magnet 622 acts as a path of electrical communication so
connector 400 includes a plug 410 and a receptacle 450. The 35 that it is also electrically coupled to the internal electronics
plug 410 is not substantially different from that disclosed in 632. In the schematic view of FIG . 14 , various components,
the embodiment of FIG . 8A - 8B . The plug 410 has contacts such as leads , contacts, and coils , are not shown for sim
420 for conveying power from a transformer ( not shown ) plicity
and has a magnetic element 430 , which can be a ferromag- In the present embodiment, the electromagnet 606 is in
netic material . The receptacle 450 has contacts 460 for 40 the plug 602 ; however, it can be positioned in the receptacle
conveying power to internal electronics 76 of the device 70 , 620. The electromagnet 606 derives its power from circuitry
which is a laptop computer in the present embodiment. 612 of the power adapter 608 so the electromagnet 606 does
In contrast to previous embodiments, the receptacle 450 not drain a battery (not shown ) of the electronic device 630 .
has an electromagnet formed by a metal core 470 wrapped In the present embodiment, the plug 602 includes a switch
by a wire coil 472. Using an electromagnet in the plug 410 45 element 610 interrupting the electrical connection between
or receptacle 450 can overcome some of the disadvantages the electromagnet 606 and the circuitry 612 of the adapter
of having a permanent magnet on either the plug 410 or 608 .
receptacle 450. For example , the electromagnet may reduce In one embodiment, the switch element 610 includes a
potential interference with internal components of the elec- mechanical switch that a user presses to turn the electro
tronic device 70 or storage media . 50 magnet 602 on and off. Any mechanical switch, such as a
The coil 472 is connected to a power supply or battery 72 conventional micro - switch , for controlling the power load of
of the laptop 70 , and an internal switch 74 among other the electromagnet 602 is suitable for the connector 600. In
electronics can be used to operate the electromagnet of the general, the switch element 610 allows the electromagnet
core 470 and coil 472. The internal switch 74 causes power 606 to run directly from power of the adapter 608 .
from the battery 72 to energized the electromagnet of core 55 In another embodiment, the switch element 610 includes
470 and coil 472. Consequently, the energized electromag- a touch sensor that energizes ( e.g. , turns on ) the electromag
net produces a magnetic field that attracts the ferromagnetic net 606 when a user touches the sensor 610 by picking up the
material 430 of the plug 410 and that can hold the plug 410 plug 602. Touch sensors are known in the art. For example,
to the receptacle 450. The battery 72 can be an independent the touch sensor 610 can include logic circuitry and contacts
battery of the device or can be the same battery used to 60 (not shown) and can use principals of capacitance of the
power the internal electronics 76 of the device 70. In either human body for operation. Once activated by the touch
case , operation of the internal switch 74 and other electron- sensor 610 , the electromagnet 606 can remain energized for
ics for connecting the battery 72 to the electromagnetic is a time interval to allow the user to couple the plug 602 to the
preferably controlled to conserve power consumption of the receptacle 620 and to turn on the electronic device 630 .
battery 72 . 65 Once the energized electromagnet 606 is magnetically
Referring to FIG . 13B , another embodiment of a magnetic coupled to the attraction plate 622 of the receptacle 650 , the
connector 500 having an electromagnet is illustrated . The contacts 604 and 624 that form a signal path between the
 US 11,233,356 B2
11 12
adapter 608 and the device 630 , and a signal along the signal tion circuitry 650 detects a fault event caused , for example,
path can be used to keep the touch sensor 610 activated and by a surge or spike in the power supply.
the electromagnet 606 energized. The fault detection circuitry 650 can be similar to that
While the plug 602 is connected and the electromagnet commonly used in the art for power adapters. In one
606 energized, the touch sensor 610 can turn off the elec- 5 embodiment, for example , the fault detection circuitry 650
tromagnet 606 when touched to allow the user to disconnect can include circuitry for detecting an over - current. In
another embodiment, for example , the fault detection cir
the plug 602. Alternatively, the touch sensor 610 can reduce cuitry
the energization of the electromagnet 606 to enable easy temperature 650 can include circuitry for detecting an over
removal by the user but to keep a small remaining attraction . 10 When the. fault detection circuitry 650 detects a fault
In addition , when the device 630 is turned off, the device 630 event, the circuitry 650 can stop energizing the electromag
may no longer send a signal along the signal path of the net 606 and allow the plug 602 to be released from the
contacts 604 and 624 or may send a quit signal to the touch embodiment of the receptacle 620 having a ferromagnetic
sensor 610 to stop energization of the electromagnet 606 . attraction plate 626. Alternatively , the circuitry 650 can
Then , the de -energized electromagnet 606 can allow the 15 reverse the direction of current supplied through the elec
plug 602 to be released from the electronic device 630 . tromagnet 606 so the electromagnet 606 is repelled by the
In yet another embodiment, the switch element 610 polarity of the embodiment of the receptacle 620 having a
includes aa motion sensor, which detects when the plug 602 permanent magnet on the attraction plate 626. It will be
is moved . The motion sensor 610 can maintain the electro appreciated that the electromagnet 606 and fault circuitry
magnet 606 energized for a
a
time interval to allow the user to 20 650 can be positioned on the device 630 while the attraction
couple the plug 602 with the receptacle 620 and to turn on plate can be positioned on the plug 602 of the connector 600
the electronic device 630. Once coupled , the signal path to achieve the same protection .
formed by contacts 604 and 624 can allow a signal to control Referring to FIG . 17 , an embodiment of a magnetic
the circuitry of the motions sensor 610 to maintain it connector 600 according to certain teachings of the present
activated while coupled to the device 630. The motion 25 disclosure is illustrated having two electromagnets 606 and
sensor 610 can automatically shut off the electromagnet 606 660. The plug 602 has the first electromagnet 606 , which is
so as to release the plug 602 from the device 630 if a sudden energized by the power adapter 608. The receptacle 620
movement occurs (e.g. , the device 630 is dropped or pulled positioned in the device 630 has the second electromagnet
away with the plug 602 connected ). 660 , which is power by an internal power supply 662 , such
Referring to FIG . 15 , an embodiment of a magnetic 30 as a battery. The two electromagnets 606 and 660 have
connector 600 according to certain teachings of the present opposite polarities allowing them to be magnetically
disclosure is illustrated having an electromagnet 606 and a coupled .
proximity sensor 640. Reference numerals in FIG . 15 that In one embodiment, the adapter 608 includes fault detec
are the same as those in other Figures represent like com- tion circuitry 650. When a fault is detected by fault detection
ponents between embodiments. The proximity sensor 640 is 35 circuitry 662 , the polarity of the first electromagnet 606 can
positioned in the plug 602 and is coupled to a switch element be reversed by the circuitry 650 so that the first and second
642. The electromagnet 606 is also coupled to the switch electromagnets 606 and 660 repel one another and actively
element 642 , which in turn is coupled to circuitry 644 for prevent connection .
providing power located in the adapter 608. The proximity In another embodiment, the adapter 608 includes circuitry
sensor 640 and switch element 642 turn on the electromag- 40 650 for identifying the adapter 608. For example , the
net 606 when the sensor 640 is positioned near plate 622 of identification circuitry 650 can identify a type of electronic
the receptacle 620 . device to which it is intended to be connected or can even
In one embodiment, the proximity sensor 640 includes a identify a specific device to which is can only be used . When
Hall Effect sensor, which detects magnetic field levels. In a user intends to connect the plug 602 to the receptacle 620 ,
use , the electromagnet 606 is initially energized before being 45 the first electromagnet 606 can be energized according to the
coupled to the receptacle 620. The initial energization can be techniques disclosed herein . However, the second electro
achieved , for example, when the adapter 608 is coupled to magnet 660 can remain de -energized . When the user posi
a power source (not shown ) or when a touch sensor (not tions the plug 602 against the receptacle 620 , the signal path
shown ) or the like is activated by the user . The initial formed by contacts 604 and 624 allow the identification
energization can be less than that necessary to magnetically 50 circuitry 650 to send a signal to the internal electronics 632
couple the electromagnet 606 to the plate 622. Once the plug of the device , which can identify the adapter 608 being
602 is moved in proximity to the receptacle 622 , the connected to the device 630 .
magnetic field associated with the initial energization of the If the adapter 608 is intended for the device 630 , then the
2

electromagnet 606 is changed, which is subsequently second electromagnet 660 can be energized with opposite
detected by the Hall Effect sensor 640. The sensor 640, in 55 polarity to couple with the first electromagnet 606 , or the
turn , causes the energization of the electromagnet 606 to be second electromagnet 660 can remain de -energized while
increased to allow it to magnetically couple to the attraction the first electromagnet 606 is simply allowed to magneti
plate 622 . cally couple with the ferromagnetic components of the
Referring to FIG . 16 , an embodiment of a magnetic de -energized electromagnet 660. If, on the other hand , the
connector 600 according to certain teachings of the present 60 adapter 608 is not intended for the device 630 , then the
disclosure is illustrated having an electromagnet 606 and second electromagnet 660 can be energized with the same
fault detection circuitry 650. Reference numerals in FIG . 16 polarity to repel the first electromagnet 606 and actively
that are the same as those in other Figures represent like prevent connection .
components between embodiments . As before , the electro- Referring to FIG . 18 , an embodiment of a magnetic
magnet 606 is energized to magnetically couple with the 65 connector 600 according to certain teachings of the present
attraction plate 626 of receptacle 620 , which can be ferro- disclosure is illustrated having an electromagnet 606 and
magnetic material or a permanent magnet. The fault detec- control circuitry 670. In one embodiment, the control cir
 US 11,233,356 B2
13 14
cuitry 670 includes a switch element, which receives a code , the control circuitry 670 will not energize the elec
control signal from the internal electronics 632 of the device tromagnet, and the plug 602 will not engage with the
630. When the battery of the electronic device 630 is fully receptacle 620 .
charged, the internal electronics 632 sends a control signal In the present disclosure, embodiments of magnetic con
to the control circuitry 670 via the signal path formed by 5 nectors have been disclosed in the context of providing
contacts 604 and 624. Moreover, when the internal electron- power from aa transformer to a laptop computer. However, it
ics 632 detects a fault, it can send a control signal to the will be appreciated with the benefit of the present disclosure
control circuitry 670 . that the subject matter of the present disclosure is applicable
As described above , one of the contacts 604 on the plug to various types of connectors, which provide electrical
602 and one of the contracts 624 on the receptacle 620 10 connection in the form of power and / or signals between an
( preferably, the centrally located contacts 604 and 624 ) can electronic device and any of a number of electronic devices
form a signal path between the device 630 and the adapter or electrical relations. For example , other applicable elec
608. It is along such a signal path that the control signal tronic devices or electrical relations include portable DVD
indicating the fully charged battery is sent. When the signal players , CD players , radios, printers, portable memory
for “ full charge” is received, the control circuitry 670 causes 15 devices, portable disk drives, input/output devices, power
its internal switch element to stop energization of the elec- sources , batteries, etc. Other applicable types of electrical
tromagnet 606 , and the plug 602 becomes decoupled from connections that can be provided by the connectors of the
the receptacle 626. If it is desirable to keep the plug 602 present disclosure include Universal Serial Bus , D - submin
magnetically coupled, albeit slightly, to the receptacle 620 iature, FireWire , network connectors, docking connectors ,
even after full charging of the battery, the plate 627 on the 20 etc.
receptacle 620 can include a magnet ( not shown ) for main- In the present disclosure, a number of embodiments of
taining at least some magnetic coupling with ferromagnetic magnetically coupleable connectors are disclosed . With the
material of the electromagnet 606 . benefit of the present disclosure , it will be appreciated that
In another embodiment, the control circuitry 670 receives aspects or features of one embodiment disclosed herein can
a control signal , which governs whether the adapter 608 25 be used in or combined with aspects and features of other
associated with the control circuitry 670 can operate with the embodiments disclosed herein to produce additional
electronic device 630. In this embodiment, the internal embodiments consistent with the teachings of the present
electronics 632 on the device 630 produces a control signal disclosure .
that identifies the device 630 , such as by its make or model . The foregoing description of preferred and other embodi
The control signal can be a digital signal, for example, 30 ments is not intended to limit or restrict the scope or
identifying the device 630. The control circuitry 670 in the applicability of the inventive concepts conceived of by the
adapter 608 is pre -configured to energize the electromagnet Applicants. In exchange for disclosing the inventive con
606 only when the identifying control signal is received . To cepts contained ein , the Applicants desire all patent rights
respond to the control signal, the control circuitry includes afforded by the appended claims . Therefore, it is intended
a switch element for controlling the electrical connection of 35 that the appended claims include all modifications and
the electromagnet 606 with its energizing source , and the alterations to the full extent that they come within the scope
circuitry includes a logic element for interpreting the control of the following claims or the equivalents thereof
signal and activating the switch element. What is claimed is :
Thus, when a user positions the plug 602 against the 1. A connector receptacle comprising:
receptacle 620 to connect them , the signal contacts 604 and 40 a plurality of contacts , each having a contacting surface ,
624 on the plug and receptacle 602 and 620 will make the plurality of contacts located in a line ;
contact, allowing the internal electronics 632 of the device a plurality of magnets positioned above, below , and to the
630 to communicate its identifying control signal to the sides of the plurality of contacts , wherein magnets
control circuitry 670 of the adapter 608. If the circuitry 670 above the plurality of contacts provide a greater flux
receives the correct signal , an internal switch within the 45 than magnets below the plurality of contacts ; and
circuitry causes the electromagnet 606 to be energized for a conductive casing around the plurality of magnets.
coupling with the receptacle. Otherwise, the electromagnet 2. The connector receptacle of claim 1 wherein each of the
will not be energized, and the plug 602 will not stay coupled plurality of contacts extends in a first direction .
to the receptacle 620 . 3. The connector receptacle of claim 2 wherein the
Accordingly, the electromagnet 606 on the adapter 608 50 plurality of magnets are positioned around the plurality of
will only be energized for a particular model or type of contacts in a second direction and a third direction, wherein
device, which may prevent the possibility of a user inad- the first direction , the second direction, and the third direc
vertently coupling an adapter with a specific power rating to tion are orthogonal to each other.
a device requiring a different power rating. For example, 4. The connector receptacle of claim 3 wherein the
harm to a computer can be prevented because the computer 55 contacting surfaces for the plurality of contacts are arranged
will not allowing itself to be connected to the wrong type of in a line in the second direction .
power adapter (e.g. , one that supplies a higher voltage than 5. The connector receptacle of claim 4 wherein the
the computer's specification ). Furthermore, the control cir- plurality of contacts includes a first contact to convey a
cuitry 670 and identification of the device 630 can be power supply, a second contact to convey ground, and aa third
configured so that the device 630 will only draw power only 60 contact to convey a signal.
from a particular power adapter or a group of power adapt- 6. The connector receptacle of claim 5 wherein the third
ers . Such a configuration can be useful in various settings , contact is located at a center of the plurality of contacts .
such as a school or other public organization , to discourage 7. The connector receptacle of claim 5 wherein the third
theft . contact is between the first contact and the second contact .
In yet another embodiment, the control circuitry 670 65 8. The connector receptacle of claim 1 wherein one or
includes a security system , which requires the user to enter more magnets above the plurality of contacts are larger than
a particular code or other identification . Without the entered one or more magnets below the plurality of contacts.
 US 11,233,356 B2
15 16
9. A connector insert comprising: a second plurality of contacts, each to mate with corre
a magnetic element having a central opening forming a sponding contact in the first plurality of contacts in the
recess, the recess having aa bottom surface ; connector receptacle when the connector insert is
a plurality of contacts, each extending from the bottom mated with the connector receptacle, each of the second
surface and having a contacting portion located in the 5 plurality of contacts extending from the bottom surface
central opening, and each configured such that the and having a contacting portion located in the central
contacting portion can move relative to the magnetic opening , and each configured such that the contacting
element, the plurality of contacts arranged in aa line ; portion can move relative to the magnetic element
a nonconductive body supporting the plurality of contacts ; when the connector insert is mated with the connector
and 10
a shell around the nonconductive body. receptacle, the second plurality of contacts arranged in
10. The connector insert of claim 9 wherein the plurality a line;
of contacts are arranged in aa line in aa first direction and each a nonconductive body supporting the second plurality of
of the plurality of contacts extends in a second direction, the contacts; and
first direction orthogonal to the second direction . 15
a shell around the nonconductive body.
11. The connector insert of claim 10 wherein for each 15. The connector system of claim 14 wherein magnets
contact in the plurality of contacts , the contacting portion above the first plurality of contacts provide a greater flux
can move relative to the magnetic element in the second than magnets below the first plurality of contacts .
direction . 16. The connector system of claim 15 wherein for each
12. The connector insert of claim 11 wherein the shell is 20
contact in the second plurality of contacts, the contacting
nonconductive . portion can move relative to the magnetic element in a first
13. The connector insert of claim 9 wherein each of the direction .
plurality of contacts are spring -biased contacts . 17. The connector system of claim 16 wherein the first
14. A connector system comprising: plurality of contacts includes a first contact to convey a
a connector receptacle comprising: 25
power supply, a second contact to convey ground, and a third
a first plurality of contacts having contacting surfaces, the contact to convey a signal.
first plurality of contacts located in a line ; 18. The connector system of claim 17 wherein the third
a plurality of magnets positioned above , below, and to the contact is located at a center of the first plurality of contacts.
sides of the first plurality of contacts, the plurality of 19. The connector system of claim 15 wherein each of the
magnets substantially around the first plurality of con 30
second plurality of contacts are spring -biased contacts .
tacts; and 20. The connector system of claim 19 wherein one or
a conductive casing around the a plurality ofmagnets ; and more magnets above the first plurality of contacts are larger
a connector insert comprising : than one or more magnets below the first plurality of
a magnetic element having a central opening forming a contacts .
recess, the recess having a bottom surface; *