Gesture-Based Electronic Latch for Laptop Computers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable computers lack an efficient and user-friendly mechanism for unlocking the latches when closed, which can be cumbersome and inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A gesture-based electronic latch system utilizing a gesture sensitive surface, such as a capacitive or pressure sensitive touchpad, that recognizes custom traces or biometric inputs to unlock the latches, accompanied by visual and audible feedback, and employs mechanisms like heat-sensitive rods or magnetic coils for mechanical unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional latch mechanisms are used in portable computers, then the latches provide secure closure, but the unlocking process becomes cumbersome and inconvenient for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical key-based latch unlocking with a capacitive sensing system that detects finger gestures and biometric patterns. The capacitive sensor array detects changes in electrical field caused by finger contact, enabling unlock operations through simple touch gestures rather than complex mechanical key manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a capacitive sensor array as an intermediary between the user and the latch mechanism. This sensor array translates finger gestures and biometric patterns into control signals that trigger the latch unlock, serving as a mediator that converts simple user input into mechanical action without requiring direct mechanical interaction.
2Ease of operation
If gesture-based unlocking is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but the device requires additional components increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the laptop's display screen serve multiple functions: it acts as both the visual display and the capacitive sensing surface for gesture input. By integrating the sensor array into the existing display structure, the system achieves gesture recognition capability without adding separate input device components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the capacitive sensor array with the display screen structure, merging the sensing function into the existing visual interface. This integration allows the display to simultaneously provide visual output and tactile input sensing, reducing overall system complexity despite adding gesture recognition capability.
3Reliability
If custom traces and biometric verification are used for unlocking, then security is enhanced, but the unlocking process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary capacitive field mapping and pattern recognition during the initial finger contact phase. The system begins analyzing the capacitive pattern as soon as finger contact is detected, rather than waiting for a complete gesture sequence, thereby reducing total unlock time while maintaining security through continuous pattern verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements progressive verification where the latch begins to unlock as soon as sufficient biometric pattern recognition is achieved, rather than requiring completion of the entire predetermined gesture sequence. This partial action approach reduces unlock time while maintaining adequate security through real-time pattern validation.
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 secure and intuitive unlocking of portable computers through user-defined gestures or biometric verification, providing visual and audible feedback, thus enhancing user experience and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
A portable information handling system includes a gesture sensitive surface, such as a capacitive or pressure sensitive touchpad
Implementation Method 2
A portable information handling system includes a gesture sensitive surface, such as a capacitive or pressure sensitive touchpad
Data Source
AI summary
A portable information handling system includes a top cover, a base, and an electronic latch. The top cover is connected to the base. The top cover has a gesture sensitive surface configured to receive a trace. The electronic latch is in communication with the gesture sensitive surface, and is configured to latch the top cover and the base together. The electronic latch is further configured to unlatch the top cover from the base in response to receiving a signal representing that the trace received on the gesture sensitive surface is proper.