Detachable Connection Assembly With Retracted Dust-Protected Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection mechanisms for electronic devices, such as tablets with detachable keyboards, are prone to damage from mechanical impact and accumulate dust, leading to reduced functionality over time.
Innovation Solution
A connection arrangement featuring a first connection assembly with a stationary structure and pivotable element, and a second connection assembly with a movable structure and slidable element, allowing for interlocking along multiple axes, including automatic alignment and retraction to protect against mechanical impact and dust ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protruding tabs or hooks are used for connection, then the connection structure is simple and visible, but the connection is easily damaged by mechanical impact and accumulates dust
Solution Approach 1:
The connection elements (tabs and recesses) are nested within the device bodies rather than protruding outward. The first connection element is arranged in a first slot within the first device, and the second connection element is arranged in a second slot within the second device, creating a nested configuration that protects connection elements from external damage and dust while maintaining connection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism transitions from a one-dimensional protruding structure to a multi-dimensional nested structure. The connection elements are positioned within slots that extend into the device bodies, adding depth (third dimension) to the connection arrangement, which protects the elements from mechanical impact and prevents dust accumulation while maintaining alignment and interlocking capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If connection elements are always visible and protruding, then alignment is straightforward, but the connection elements are exposed to mechanical wear and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The connection elements are nested within slots in the device bodies, with the first connection element in a first slot and the second connection element in a second slot. This nested arrangement protects the connection elements from mechanical wear and damage while the slot configurations maintain proper alignment during the connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The slots are pre-configured within the device bodies to guide and align the connection elements during the connection process. The first slot and second slot are positioned and dimensioned to automatically align the first and second devices when brought together, eliminating the need for visible protruding elements while maintaining ease of alignment.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection arrangement for detachably interconnecting an electronic device and an additional device along a first axis has a first connection assembly and a second connection assembly disposed in the electronic device and the additional device respectively. The first connection assembly includes a stationary structure and a pivotable element. The second connection assembly has a partially movable structure and a slidable element. The pivotable element is configured to engage the slidable element and the partially movable structure is configured to engage the stationary structure such that the first connection assembly and the second connection assembly can interlock with each other in a direction along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis.