Edge-Mounted Button Pivot Axis Reduces Accidental Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Edge-mounted buttons on electronic devices with inboard hinges are prone to accidental activation and do not have a smooth reveal, leading to potential damage and user inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
Configuring edge-mounted buttons to pivot about an outboard edge, with an axis of rotation parallel to the device edge and proximate to the button surface, reduces accidental activation and enhances mechanical strength and reveal smoothness by using a shaft, living hinge, or resilient materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If buttons are disposed on an edge of the device with inboard hinges, then the buttons can be activated for user input functions, but the buttons are prone to accidental activation and do not have a smooth reveal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional hinge location from inboard (inside the device edge) to outboard (at the device edge). This inversion changes the pivot point location, causing the button to rotate about an axis at the edge rather than inward from it. This resolves the contradiction by preventing accidental activation while maintaining operational ease, as the outer edge pivot creates a smoother reveal and reduces inadvertent pressure transmission.
2Ease of manufacture
If buttons have inboard hinges, then the button mechanism can function, but the reveal is not smooth and buttons may snag or get damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the hinge location from inboard to outboard, positioning the pivot axis at the device edge. This inversion creates a smoother reveal surface that prevents snagging and damage during device insertion and removal. The outboard hinge maintains full button functionality while eliminating the structural weaknesses associated with inboard hinges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the critical parameter of hinge location from inboard to outboard. This parameter change fundamentally alters the button's mechanical behavior, improving both the smoothness of the reveal and the overall durability of the button assembly. The outboard hinge position optimizes the mechanical leverage and stress distribution.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device disclosed herein reduces inadvertent activation of buttons mounted on edges of an electronic device. The button moves around an axis of rotation proximate to, and parallel with, the adjacent edge of the device. Thus, inadvertent pressure on an edge of the button adjacent to the edge of the device will not inadvertently activate the button. Additionally, the presence of the axis of rotation proximate to the edge maintains a desired reveal.