Computing Stand with Magnetic Retention for Portable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing stands require frames, clamps, or screws to retain electronic devices, which can be cumbersome and require sterilization in healthcare settings, and do not effectively prevent device shifting during use or movement.
Innovation Solution
A computing stand with a work surface featuring strategically positioned magnets that attract and hold electronic devices, such as tablets and keyboards, using magnetic latching, allowing for secure retention without the need for frames or screws and enabling easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frames or clamps are used to retain electronic devices, then device retention is achieved, but device shifting is not prevented and sterilization is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical retention systems (frames, clamps, screws) with a magnetic field-based retention system. Magnets embedded in the work surface create magnetic attraction forces that hold electronic devices without physical contact, eliminating the need for mechanical fastening components that require sterilization while maintaining reliable device retention.
2Reliability
If frames or clamps are used to retain electronic devices, then device retention is achieved, but device shifting during movement occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic retention system provides uniform magnetic attraction across the contact area between the device and work surface, creating stable positioning that prevents shifting during movement without the mechanical interference or gaps present in frame-based systems.
3Reliability
If frames or clamps are used to retain electronic devices, then device retention is achieved, but attachment and detachment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic retention system eliminates complex mechanical attachment mechanisms (screws, clamps, latches) by using magnetic attraction forces. Devices are attached by simply placing them on the work surface where magnetic forces automatically secure them, and detached by lifting them away, dramatically simplifying the attachment and detachment process.
4Reliability
If magnets are positioned within the work surface, then secure magnetic retention is achieved, but magnet positioning precision is required
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic retention system uses multiple smaller magnets distributed across the work surface rather than a single large magnet. This segmentation allows for more flexible positioning and reduces the criticality of precise alignment, as the cumulative magnetic effect from multiple magnets provides reliable retention even with moderate positioning tolerances.
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
The magnetic latching system securely holds electronic devices in place, preventing movement and allowing for easy positioning and orientation, while eliminating the need for sterilization and reducing the complexity of device attachment and detachment.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic latching system securely holds electronic devices in place
Data Source
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AI summary
A computing stand for supporting an electronic device, the stand comprising: a work surface; one or more magnets positioned on the work surface; a riser attached to the work surface; and a base attached to the riser, wherein the one or more magnets are positioned to attract to one or more magnets associated with at least one of the electronic device, a keyboard of the electronic device, and a kickstand of the electronic device.