Floatable Hook Chassis Connection for Appearance and Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic apparatuses with chassis members connected only at the outer peripheral edges face issues such as deformation, potential scratching, and gaps that can catch foreign objects, due to manufacturing tolerances and errors, which affect the quality of appearance and reliability of engagement.
Innovation Solution
A detachable hook mechanism supported in a floatable manner on one chassis member engages with an engagement hole on the other, allowing for smooth connection and centering, even with positional deviations, minimizing the need for screws and maintaining appearance quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If chassis members are connected only at the outer peripheral edge parts to maintain appearance quality, then the aesthetic quality is improved, but the chassis member may deform and swell downward in the central part
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is segmented into multiple independent connecting units distributed across the chassis member. These units include both edge-mounted units (for aesthetic purposes) and centrally-mounted units (for structural stability), allowing the system to simultaneously achieve appearance quality and prevent deformation through distributed support points
Solution Approach 2:
Different connection strategies are applied to different regions of the chassis member. Edge regions use conventional screw connections visible from the side, while the central region uses hidden connecting units that provide structural support without compromising appearance. Each local region optimizes for its specific function
2Stability of the object's composition
If screws are used to fasten the central part of the chassis member to prevent deformation, then the structural stability is improved, but the quality of appearance is deteriorated due to conspicuous screws on the bottom surface
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is extracted from the traditional screw mechanism and reimplemented through hidden connecting units. These units include engagement protrusions and recesses that interlock without requiring visible screws on the bottom surface, thereby maintaining structural stability while preserving aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary connection mechanism is introduced between the first and second chassis members. This mechanism uses engagement protrusions and recesses that can be concealed within the chassis structure, serving as a mediator that provides both mechanical fastening and aesthetic coverage
3Device complexity
If general engaging parts are used to connect chassis members, then the device complexity is reduced, but the engagement reliability is worsened due to accumulated manufacturing tolerance in the central part
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting units incorporate floating support mechanisms that allow positional adjustment during assembly. This dynamic capability enables the engagement protrusions and recesses to self-align despite manufacturing tolerances, maintaining engagement reliability without requiring complex precision positioning systems
Solution Approach 2:
The connection design incorporates parameter variations such as enlarged engagement holes and adjustable floating positions. These parameter changes provide tolerance compensation, allowing the connecting units to accommodate manufacturing variations while maintaining reliable engagement
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus is disclosed. The electronic apparatus includes a first chassis member, a second chassis member detachably connected to the first chassis member, a hook, which is supported in a floatable manner with respect to the first chassis member, protrudes from an inner surface of the first chassis member, and an engagement hole, which is provided on an inner surface of the second chassis member, is engageable with the hook.