Convertible Tablet Hinge Linking Member Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tablet computers with keyboards are often heavy and have wobbly hinges, making them inefficient for data entry, and users seek a lightweight option that can easily switch between tablet and laptop configurations for optimal input methods.
Innovation Solution
A computer system featuring a linking member with two hinges that connects a display housing and an input unit, allowing the device to pivot between a tablet and laptop configuration, with the input unit forming an angle of 90° to 180° relative to the display housing, enabling seamless conversion between modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a keyboard is added to a tablet to enable data entry, then data input capability is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard is separated from the main tablet body and attached only when needed through a magnetic linking member. This segmentation allows the tablet to remain lightweight during pure tablet use, while providing keyboard functionality on demand without permanently increasing the base weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard attachment is dynamic rather than static. The magnetic linking member allows the keyboard to be easily attached and detached, and the hinge mechanism enables the keyboard to pivot between different angles (90° to 180°), providing adaptable positioning that adjusts to different user needs and environments.
2Ease of operation
If a keyboard is added to a tablet for data entry, then data input capability is improved, but the hinge becomes wobbly
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic linking member serves as an intermediary between the tablet and keyboard. This magnetic connection provides a stable, firm attachment that eliminates the wobbly hinge problem of previous designs. The magnetic force creates a rigid connection that maintains stability while still allowing controlled movement through the hinge mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism incorporates a spherical pivot point that rotates within a corresponding spherical receptacle. This spherical geometry provides smooth, stable rotation while maintaining firm contact between the keyboard and tablet, eliminating wobble while allowing the keyboard to pivot to different angles.
3Ease of operation
If a keyboard is permanently attached to a tablet, then data input capability is improved, but device versatility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard attachment system is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The magnetic linking member allows easy attachment and detachment, enabling users to switch between tablet-only mode and keyboard-equipped mode based on their current needs. This dynamic design preserves versatility while providing keyboard functionality when required.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the keyboard from the main tablet body through a magnetic attachment system, the device maintains its core versatility as a pure tablet while offering the option to add keyboard functionality. This segmentation allows the tablet to adapt to different use cases without being permanently constrained to a single configuration.
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 solution provides a lightweight tablet with a robust keyboard attachment that allows for efficient data input in both tablet and laptop configurations, enhancing user experience by offering a stable and versatile input solution.
Implementation Method 1
a linking member having a first hinge and a second hinge; a display housing pivotally attached to the first hinge of the linking member; and an input unit pivotally attached to the second hinge of the linking member
Data Source
AI summary
A computer system and an attached input unit are provided for a user to input data. A computer system may comprise a linking member, a display housing, and an input unit. The linking member may have a first hinge and a second hinge. The display housing may be pivotally attached to the first hinge of the linking member. The input unit may be attached to the second hinge of the linking member.