Portable Computer Cam Structure for Stable Tablet Mode Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Notebook PCs lack stable support and flat placement for touch operations due to display vibration and potential toppling when trying to use touch functions, as existing support designs are not suitable for flipping the display to different operation states.
Innovation Solution
A portable computer design featuring a base, display module, support element, and cam structure that allows smooth rotation and stable support, with the support element connected indirectly to the base via the cam structure, enabling automatic positioning and preventing interference during the flip process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a reactive torsion of a pivot bearing is used to keep the display in a fixed position, then the display can be held at a suitable angle for touch operations, but the display vibrates back and forth when the user touches it, making it inconvenient to perform touch functions
Solution Approach 1:
A support arm is introduced as an intermediary component between the display and the base. The support arm includes a support element pivotally connected to the display and a cam structure pivotally connected to the base, with the support element indirectly connected to the base through the cam structure. This intermediary structure absorbs the vibratory forces generated during touch operations while maintaining display stability at the desired angle.
2Ease of operation
If the user applies force on the display for touch operations, then touch functions can be activated, but the display may topple and fall backwards, causing damage and discouraging further touch use
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm and cam structure are designed to provide preemptive support to the display before it can topple. The cam structure includes a cam groove and cam member that work together to prevent excessive backward rotation of the display. When the display is pushed during touch operations, the support arm absorbs the force and the cam mechanism limits the range of motion, preventing the display from falling backwards and being damaged.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a sheet-like support element is used to support the display and let it slide via guide grooves, then the display can stand upright, but this design is not suitable for notebook PCs which have displays faced down and towards the keyboard when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm is designed as a dynamic structure that can adapt to different display orientations. The support element is pivotally connected to the display, allowing it to rotate and adjust its position. The cam structure can rotate relative to the base, enabling the support arm to accommodate both notebook mode (display faced down) and tablet mode (display upright) configurations, providing versatility without excessive complexity.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the support element is directly connected to the base, then the display can be supported, but the support element interferes with the flipped operation of the display, preventing smooth rotation and affecting the flat state
Solution Approach 1:
The cam structure serves as an intermediary between the support element and the base, allowing the support element to be indirectly connected to the base. This indirect connection through the cam mechanism (comprising cam groove and cam member) enables the display to flip smoothly between notebook and tablet modes without interference, while still providing stable support when needed. The cam structure rotates to accommodate the display's movement.
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
Enables stable and flat display support in both notebook and tablet modes, improving user operation by preventing display vibration and toppling, and maintaining the device's flat appearance during state changes.
Implementation Method 1
the cam structure includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion; the first connecting portion is connected pivotally to the second fixed end so that the support element is able to rotate relative to the cam structure; the second connecting portion is connected pivotally to the rear end of the base
Implementation Method 2
Each support element includes a first fixed end and a second fixed end, and the first fixed end is connected pivotally to a portion of the display module other than the display face so that the display module is able to rotate relative to the support element
Data Source
AI summary
A portable computer includes a base, a display module, a support element and a cam structure. The base comprises a first area and a second area. The display module includes a connecting end and a display face. The support element includes a first end connected pivotally to a portion of the display module other than the display face and a second end connected pivotally to the rear end of the base. Two ends of the cam structure are connected pivotally to the base and the support element. Accordingly, the support element is connected indirectly and pivotally to the base. When the display module is slid and rotated relative to the base to change a notebook state or a tablet state, the support element does not interfere the movement of the display module and keep the flatness of the whole appearance of the portable computer.