Adjustable Port Bar Layout for Stable Slim Computing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing devices with rotatable portions face stability issues when opened, particularly due to uneven distribution of mass and potential tipping, and require efficient port placement that does not compromise slimness and ergonomics.
Innovation Solution
A bar with adjustable port ends is mounted to the base housing, shifting the center of mass towards the back edge, providing stability and allowing for customizable port configurations, including USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet ports, while maintaining a slim design and ergonomic use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ports are integrated into the base housing, then connectivity functionality is provided, but the device thickness increases and slimness is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the base housing into two separate components: a main base housing and a detachable bar assembly. The bar contains the ports and can be removed or adjusted, allowing the device to maintain connectivity functionality while reducing thickness when the bar is not in use or when positioned at the rear edge of the base housing.
2Ease of operation
If mass is concentrated at the front edge for ergonomic handling, then handheld comfort is improved, but stability when opened deteriorates due to potential tipping
Solution Approach 1:
The bar assembly is designed to be repositionable along the base housing, allowing the user to dynamically adjust the center of mass position. When handheld, the bar can be positioned forward for balance; when the device is opened for use, the bar can be positioned at the rear edge to shift the center of mass backward, preventing tipping and enhancing stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ports are included for versatility, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By placing multiple ports on a detachable bar rather than integrating them into the main base housing, the patent reduces the structural complexity of the primary device body. The bar serves as a modular module that consolidates all port connections in one location, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A computing device can include a processor; memory accessible to the processor; a display housing that includes a display operatively coupled to the processor; a base housing that includes a base side, a top side, a front edge, a back edge, a left edge, and a right edge; a hinge assembly that couples the base housing and the display housing; and a bar mountable to the base side of the base housing, where the bar includes one or more feet and an adjustable port end that includes one or more ports.