Dockable Tablet Magnetic Coupling for Upright Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tablet devices are challenging to stabilize in an upright position for horizontal viewing and often require wireless communication for power and data transfer, which can be inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A dockable and undockable electronic tablet device with electrical contacts and magnetic coupling mechanisms that allow for secure upright positioning and direct electrical connection for power and data transfer, optionally with wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tablet device is placed on a flat surface for viewing, then the device can be easily positioned, but the user must look downward which is uncomfortable for prolonged viewing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by docking the tablet upright on a dock, transforming the viewing orientation from horizontal (on a flat surface) to vertical (upright position). This dimensional change allows users to view content at eye level, improving comfort while the dock provides stable positioning.
2Productivity
If wireless communication is used for power and data transfer, then the device can be easily connected, but the transfer efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wireless communication (electromagnetic field-based) with a mechanical connection system involving electrical contacts and magnetic coupling. This substitution enables efficient power and data transfer through direct physical contact while the magnetic mechanism simplifies the docking process, making it both efficient and user-friendly.
3Productivity
If electrical contacts are added to the tablet for direct connection, then power transfer efficiency improves, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical contact function with the existing charging port structure on the tablet. The electrical contacts are integrated into the dock connection interface, combining power transfer and data communication functions in a single integrated mechanism, thereby improving efficiency without significantly increasing structural complexity.
4Ease of operation
If a magnetic coupling mechanism is used to secure the tablet upright, then the device can be easily docked and undocked, but the holding force may be insufficient for larger tablets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite connection mechanism that combines magnetic coupling with mechanical friction and gravitational force. The magnetic mechanism provides initial attraction and alignment, while the physical fit and weight of the tablet create additional holding force, creating a multi-component system that achieves both ease of operation and sufficient holding strength.
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 upright viewing and efficient power transfer with minimal sound distortion, reducing the need for wireless communication and enhancing user interaction.
Implementation Method 1
magnets may be implemented in the dock and/or the tablet device to generate a magnetic attraction force that securely connects and holds the tablet device to the dock
Implementation Method 2
the electrical contacts electrically couple to corresponding receptacle contacts on the dock, forming a solid and physical connection that enables the transfer of electrical current and electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
The present document describes techniques for a dockable and undockable multiple-purpose electronic tablet device. These techniques enable a tablet device, to be docked to a dock, which secures the tablet device for use, for example, of a display screen of the tablet device and/or for use of a speaker of the dock. The tablet device is also electrically couplable to the dock to enable communication between the tablet device and the dock and to enable power transfer from the dock to the tablet device for charging a battery of the tablet device.