Elastomeric Locking Mechanism for Electronic Device Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking mechanisms for electronic device covers are prone to disengagement due to applied forces, such as accidental impacts, which can cause the cover to detach from the housing unintentionally.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism featuring a moveable second locking feature within the housing receptacle, made from elastomeric and plastic materials, which engages and disengages with a locking pin when a predefined force is applied at a specific location, allowing for easy removal of the cover with minimal effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional locking mechanisms with multiple parts (metal clasps) are used to provide a positive lock for the cover to the housing, then the locking strength is improved, but the device complexity increases and the cover is still susceptible to disengagement from accidental impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking mechanism into a single integrated component formed as part of the housing structure. The recess with resilient walls and protrusion eliminates the need for separate metal clasps and multiple locking parts, achieving both simplified complexity and adequate locking strength through the integrated resilient structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the locking structure by using resilient or elastic material for the housing walls. This parameter change allows the locking mechanism to dynamically respond to forces, providing strength while maintaining simplicity and resistance to accidental disengagement
2Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used to securely attach the cover to the housing, then the reliability of attachment is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as the cover requires significant force to remove
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic behavior to the locking mechanism through resilient walls that can deform. The cover remains securely attached under normal conditions but can be easily removed when sufficient force is applied to overcome the resilient locking force, transforming a static rigid lock into a dynamic responsive system
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient walls provide a cushioning effect that absorbs normal operational forces while maintaining the locked state. This beforehand cushioning allows the mechanism to withstand accidental impacts without disengaging, yet still permit intentional removal with adequate force
3Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used to prevent cover disengagement, then the protection against accidental disengagement is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated recess structure with resilient walls and protrusions. This merging eliminates the need for separate metal clasps and multiple locking components, achieving both simplified complexity and reliable protection against accidental disengagement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses material property changes by implementing resilient or elastic housing walls in the locking mechanism. This parameter change enables the single-component design to provide reliable accidental impact resistance that previously required multiple rigid metal components
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 a secure attachment of the cover to the housing while allowing for effortless removal with one hand by applying pressure at a designated indentation, enhancing user convenience and reducing accidental disengagement.
Implementation Method 1
The locking mechanism features a moveable second locking feature within the housing receptacle, made from elastomeric and plastic materials, which engages and disengages with a locking pin when a predefined force is applied
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a housing for an electronic device. The housing comprises: a back housing defining an interior compartment of the device; a receptacle to receive a first locking feature from a cover for the electronic device; and at least one moveable second locking feature in the receptacle to engage the first locking feature to hold the cover to the back housing. In the back housing the second locking feature is selectively moved from a first engaged position with the first locking feature to a second disengaged position with the first locking feature when a predefined force is applied at a specific location at the back housing or the cover.