Dual-Side Dockable Keyboard Base with Bi-Directional Wireless Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 2 in 1 devices lack a dual side dockable keyboard base with bi-directional wireless charging functionality, limiting their usability and charging capabilities, especially when operating in tablet or laptop modes.

Innovation Solution

A dual side dockable keyboard base with bi-directional wireless charging functionality is introduced, featuring a cradle that allows 2 in 1 devices to be docked on either side, equipped with USB type C connectors for reversible charging and data transfer, and includes a wireless charging pad on one side and an input device on the other, enabling simultaneous charging and data input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional wired charger is used for portable computing devices, then charging reliability is ensured, but device mobility and ease of operation are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice mobilityVSAvoidcharging reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with an inductive or magnetic resonance wireless charging system. The keyboard base incorporates a wireless charging coil that generates an electromagnetic field to transfer power to the tablet portion, eliminating the need for physical plug connections while maintaining charging functionality and improving device mobility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a keyboard base is designed for single-sided docking, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and versatility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedocking flexibilityVSAvoidbase structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The keyboard base is designed with dual-sided docking capability, allowing the tablet portion to be docked on either the front side or back side of the base. Both sides are equipped with identical wireless charging coils and USB Type-C connectors, enabling the base to function as a keyboard, trackpad, or charging station regardless of docking orientation, thereby achieving multi-functionality without significantly increasing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If wireless charging functionality is added to the keyboard base, then charging convenience is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging convenienceVSAvoidbase components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the wireless charging coil with the keyboard base structure, integrating the charging functionality into the existing base design. The coil is embedded within the base housing, sharing the same physical space and structural framework, which minimizes additional component count and reduces overall device complexity while still providing convenient wireless charging.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of operation

If USB Type-C connectors are implemented for reversible charging, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector usabilityVSAvoidconnector alignment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The keyboard base is designed with symmetrical positioning of USB Type-C connectors on both the front and back sides, creating equipotential docking conditions. The connectors are positioned at identical locations relative to the base edges, ensuring consistent alignment and electrical contact regardless of which side the tablet is docked on, thereby simplifying manufacturing tolerance requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

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

This solution enhances the usability and charging experience of 2 in 1 devices by providing a harmonious design that maintains typing efficiency while offering additional functions like bi-directional wireless charging, supporting both tablet and laptop modes with enhanced productivity and mobility.

Implementation Method 1

Inductive or magnetic resonance wireless charging devices are emerging as a promising technology to replace traditional wired chargers for portable computing devices.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductive wireless charging: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

Inductive or magnetic resonance wireless charging devices are emerging as a promising technology to replace traditional wired chargers for portable computing devices.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic resonance wireless charging: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11209861B2Dual side dockable keyboard base with bi-directional wireless charging function for 2 in 1 devices
Publication Date: 2021.12.28 INTEL CORP
  • US11209861B2 patent drawing
  • US11209861B2 patent drawing
  • US11209861B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and apparatus relating to a dual side dockable keyboard base with bidirectional wireless charging function for 2 in 1 devices are described. In an embodiment, a 2 in 1 device base provides data input functionality to a tablet portion of the 2 in 1 device and/or wireless charging functionality. Other embodiments are also disclosed and claimed.