Docking Mechanism With Spring Wedge for Secure Low-Force Release
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing docking mechanisms for computing devices face challenges in securely connecting and disconnecting components due to limited space, requiring actuators or other locking mechanisms that may not fit in constrained environments, and struggle to resist separation forces effectively, especially for elderly or infirm users.
Innovation Solution
A docking mechanism featuring a locking protrusion and receptacle with an inclined surface, a wedging member, and a spring-biased locking detent that resists separation forces below 40 Newtons while allowing separation above 50 Newtons, utilizing a curved design for enhanced friction and contact points to secure the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If actuators or locking mechanisms are used to secure the connection, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases and the mechanism may not fit in constrained environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes actuators and complex locking mechanisms from the docking system, retaining only the essential locking protrusion and receptacle components. This extraction of unnecessary elements reduces device complexity while maintaining the core connection function through the spring-biased wedging member and friction-based retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking mechanism employs self-locking through the spring-biased wedging member that automatically engages with the locking protrusion when portions are mated. The friction between curved surfaces and spring pressure provide automatic retention without requiring external actuators or complex control systems, enabling the mechanism to secure itself.
2Strength
If actuators or locking mechanisms are used to secure the connection, then the connection strength is improved, but the mechanism may not fit in constrained environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates actuators and complex locking mechanisms that would occupy significant space, retaining only the essential locking protrusion, receptacle, and spring-biased wedging member. This extraction dramatically reduces the volume required for the docking mechanism while maintaining connection strength through friction and spring pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking protrusion is nested within the locking receptacle, and the spring-biased wedging member is positioned within the receptacle structure. This nesting arrangement allows the mechanism to fit in constrained environments by utilizing the available space efficiently without requiring additional external components.
3Device complexity
If a simple docking mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to resist separation forces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved surfaces on the locking protrusion, locking receptacle, and wedging member to enhance friction-based retention. The curvature creates increased contact area and friction between surfaces, allowing the simple mechanism to resist separation forces effectively without requiring complex locking features.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased wedging member dynamically adjusts the normal force between contacting surfaces based on insertion depth and separation attempts. This parameter change in contact force enhances separation resistance while maintaining simplicity, as the spring pressure automatically increases retention during normal use.
4Device complexity
If a simple docking mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The curved surfaces on the locking protrusion, receptacle, and wedging member create enhanced friction-based retention and more reliable engagement. The curvature ensures consistent contact and friction throughout the connection, improving reliability while maintaining mechanism simplicity through geometric design rather than complex features.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased wedging member provides automatic adjustment and maintenance of contact pressure, ensuring reliable retention without external control. The self-service mechanism compensates for manufacturing variations and wear through elastic deformation, maintaining connection reliability while keeping the system simple and maintenance-free.
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 mechanism provides secure connection and disconnection in limited spaces without actuators, effectively resisting separation forces within a specific range, ensuring reliable operation even for users with limited strength.
Implementation Method 1
The locking detent has a spring configured to bias the locking detent towards the locking protrusion
Implementation Method 2
a wedging member having a spring configured to bias the wedging member toward the locking protrusion
Implementation Method 3
The curved portion of the back surface abutting the inclined surface in a restraining state
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A docking mechanism is described. The docking mechanism may include a locking protrusion and a locking receptacle configured to receive the locking protrusion and having an inclined surface. The docking mechanism may include a wedging member abutting the inclined surface. The docking mechanism may include a locking detent. The locking detent may have a spring configured to bias the locking detent towards the locking protrusion. Computing devices that include docking mechanisms are also described. Methods of use of the docking mechanisms are also described.