Foldable Slate Case with Magnetic Keyboard Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Slate computer systems with wireless keyboards face challenges when the keyboard's battery runs out, as users often find themselves in remote locations without access to battery replacements, limiting functionality in field work scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A foldable transformable display case with a hinge, where one panel includes an integrated display screen and another a keyboard unit, allowing the keyboard to be attached and charged using the slate computer's power, either through magnetic or electromagnetic connections, and enabling wireless communication even when detached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the wireless keyboard uses its own battery for independence and flexibility, then the keyboard can be used wirelessly with the slate computer, but the keyboard's battery may run out in remote locations where battery replacement is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the keyboard and slate computer into an integrated unit where the keyboard can be magnetically attached to the slate computer. This merging allows the keyboard to access the slate computer's power source, eliminating the battery life limitation while maintaining wireless functionality when attached.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard is designed to serve multiple functions: it can operate wirelessly using its own battery when detached, or it can be magnetically attached to the slate computer to receive power and use wired communication. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing the keyboard to adapt to different usage scenarios.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the keyboard is integrated with the slate computer through magnetic attachment, then the keyboard can be charged using the slate computer's power, but the keyboard unit adds weight and bulk to the slate computer system
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard is designed as a separate, detachable unit that can be magnetically attached to or removed from the slate computer. This segmentation allows users to carry only the essential slate computer when battery life extension is not needed, while still providing the option to attach the keyboard for extended operation or wired communication when required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the keyboard unit is made removable from the panels, then the keyboard can be detached for portable use, but the connection and charging mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection mechanisms (such as buttons, latches, or screws) with magnetic attachment. This substitution simplifies the connection and disconnection process to a simple attach/detach action while providing secure connection for power transfer and data communication, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the removable design.
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
Enables continuous use of the wireless keyboard by providing a means to charge and power it using the slate computer, ensuring functionality in remote locations and conserving battery life by switching to wired connections when possible.
Implementation Method 1
The keyboard unit is connected to the mobile computer system using a connector, such as a set of magnetic connection points
Implementation Method 2
Another embodiment uses electromagnetic connection points to connect the keyboard unit to the slate computer when the units are in proximity to each other
Data Source
AI summary
An approach is provided that uses a foldable transformable display case that includes two panels. The two panels are attached using a hinge. Two components are attachable to at least one of the panels. One of the two components is an integrated display screen. Another component is a keyboard unit. At least one of the components can be removed from the panels.