Movable Audio Module Ejection Mechanism for Notebook Sound Directivity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional notebook computers with fixedly embedded audio amplifiers suffer from unsatisfactory sound transmission due to the lack of directivity, requiring manual adjustment of the audio amplifier to face the user, which reduces convenience and user satisfaction.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device design featuring a clamshell-type structure with a pivotally connected audio module, cam, follower, latch, and elastic element, allowing the audio module to automatically eject and face the user when the device is opened, utilizing a gear transmission mechanism and elastic potential energy for automatic alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the audio amplifier is fixedly embedded in the computer housing, then the device structure is simple, but the sound transmission directivity is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structureVSAvoidsound transmission directivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The audio module is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to rotate between a first position (embedded in housing) and a second position (ejected toward user). This dynamic configuration enables the system to switch between compact mode and directivity mode, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and sound transmission directivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The audio system is segmented into a movable audio module that can be separated from the main housing. The audio module includes the amplifier and speaker, which can be ejected independently from the computer housing, allowing optimized positioning for sound directivity without complicating the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the audio amplifier is made movable to face the user, then the sound directivity is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound directivityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The audio module automatically ejects and positions itself using an elastic element that stores potential energy. When the notebook lid is opened, the elastic element releases energy to drive the audio module outward, eliminating the need for manual operation or complex motorized mechanisms, thus improving sound directivity without significantly increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

A cam mechanism serves as an intermediary between the lid opening action and the audio module ejection. The cam converts the rotational motion of the lid into linear motion that triggers the elastic element to propel the audio module outward, providing a simple mechanical linkage that avoids complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If manual operation is required to position the audio amplifier, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structureVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The audio module automatically ejects and positions itself using an elastic element that stores potential energy. When the notebook lid is opened, the elastic element releases energy to drive the audio module outward, eliminating the need for manual operation or complex motorized mechanisms, thus improving sound directivity without significantly increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enhances sound directivity and convenience by automatically positioning the audio module to face the user, improving the overall user experience and reducing the need for manual adjustments.

Implementation Method 1

The elastic element includes two ends, one is against the second body, and the other one is against the audio module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic potential energy: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8279591B2Electronic device
Publication Date: 2012.10.02 ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC
  • US8279591B2 patent drawing
  • US8279591B2 patent drawing
  • US8279591B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device includes a first body, a second body, a first pivot, an audio module, a second pivot, a cam, a follower, a latch, and an elastic element. The first pivot pivotally connects the first body with the second body. The second pivot pivotally connects the audio module with the second body. The cam is coupled with the first pivot. The follower contacts the cam. The latch is fastened to the audio module and connected with the follower. The elastic element includes two ends, one is against the second body, and the other one is against the audio module.