Hinge-Integrated Input Device for Clamshell Electronics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clamshell portable electronic devices face challenges in aesthetics and unintended button presses due to function buttons located on the side edges, which protrude and can be activated unintentionally as the device is handled.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating input devices onto the hinge member of the device, which are aligned with specific axes, and using flexible connectors or mechanical switches to maintain electrical connectivity while accommodating the device's movement between open and closed positions, allowing for a cleaner design and reduced risk of accidental button presses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If function buttons are located on the side edges of the device, then the device provides functional input capability, but the buttons protrude and can be activated unintentionally as the device is handled
Solution Approach 1:
The input device is relocated from the traditional side-edge position to the hinge member, effectively moving it to a different spatial dimension. This repositioning allows the button to be accessible when the device is closed while being hidden when open, thus preventing unintended presses during handling while maintaining operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The input device is integrated into the movable hinge member rather than being fixed to the device body. This dynamic positioning allows the button's accessibility to change based on the device's state (open/closed), automatically preventing accidental presses when the device is open and handheld, while remaining accessible when closed for dialing operations.
2Ease of operation
If function buttons are located on the side edges of the device, then the device provides functional input capability, but the design appears less clean due to protruding buttons
Solution Approach 1:
By moving the input device to the hinge member, the design achieves a cleaner side profile as the button is no longer protruding from the device edges. The aesthetic improvement is achieved while preserving full input functionality through the hinge-integrated button.
3Volume of moving object
If the device is folded between open and closed positions, then the device provides compact portability, but maintaining electrical connectivity during movement becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) to maintain electrical connectivity between the input device on the hinge member and the device body during folding movements. The FPC's flexibility allows it to bend and flex as the device transitions between open and closed positions, preserving electrical connections without adding mechanical complexity.
4Shape
If the input device is provided in the hinge member, then the aesthetic appearance is improved and accidental presses are reduced, but ensuring functionality across various device positions requires additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible printed circuit board provides a simple yet effective solution for maintaining electrical connectivity across various device positions. This flexible film approach avoids complex mechanical switches or connectors, achieving the required functionality while minimizing added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection methods (such as rigid connectors or sliding contacts) with a flexible printed circuit board. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical alignment and contact issues, providing reliable electrical connectivity through the hinge's range of motion with minimal additional complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A portable electronic device, including a first portion, a second portion hingedly coupled to the first portion so that the first and second portions are movable between an open position and a closed position, and a hinge member coupled to the first portion and second portion adjacent the hinged end of the first and second portions. The hinge member includes at least one input device therein.