Gravity-Orientation Coupler With Magnetic Hidden Fastener Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hidden fasteners for electronic devices are difficult to disassemble and require knowledge of their location, making them unsuitable for mass production and serviceability, while also compromising on design aesthetics and form factors.
Innovation Solution
A gravity-orientation coupler system comprising two halves with ball chambers and tongues that secure components together without visible fasteners, using a ferromagnetic ball for magnetic disassembly and a pliable material for enhanced locking, allowing secure attachment and easy disassembly by orienting the device at a specific angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If hidden fasteners are used to secure device components, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but serviceability and ease of disassembly deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into two separate halves: a male half and a female half. Each half can be independently installed into device components, allowing the components to be secured together while maintaining hidden aesthetics. The segmentation enables easy disassembly by simply separating the two halves without requiring tool access to hidden fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
A ferromagnetic ball acts as an intermediary locking element between the male and female coupler halves. The ball is retained by spring force and magnetic force, mediating the locking action between the two coupler halves. This intermediary mechanism allows for easy release by applying an external magnetic field to overcome the retaining forces.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If traditional hidden fasteners are used, then external visibility is reduced, but disassembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler halves are designed to self-align and self-lock through gravity and spring force. When assembled, the male coupler half automatically engages with the female coupler half, and the ferromagnetic ball is automatically retained by the spring and magnetic forces without requiring complex alignment procedures or tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical screw or clip fastening system is replaced with a magnetic retention system. The ferromagnetic ball is held in place by magnetic force between the coupler halves, allowing for easy release by applying an external magnetic field, thereby simplifying the disassembly process compared to mechanical fasteners.
3Reliability
If multiple-part hidden fastener assemblies are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but manufacturing efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The male and female coupler halves are each single-integral pieces that combine multiple functions into one component. Each half integrates the coupling interface, the ball chamber, and the retention mechanism, eliminating the need for multiple separate parts and reducing assembly complexity during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler halves are designed as universal fastening components that can be used in various device assemblies. The standardized design allows the same male and female coupler halves to be used across different device types and configurations, simplifying inventory management and manufacturing processes.
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 gravity-orientation coupler provides a secure, aesthetically pleasing, and easily serviceable attachment method that minimizes external fasteners, enabling efficient assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity and design flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet is used to disassemble this sort of device
Implementation Method 2
using a ferromagnetic ball for magnetic disassembly
Implementation Method 3
the ball and ball chamber are configured such that when the coupler halves are fitted together the ball in at least one of the ball chambers will apply pressure to the respective tongue securing it therein
Data Source
AI summary
A gravity-orientation coupler is shown and described. The gravity-orientation coupler includes a first coupler half and a second coupler half, wherein the coupler halves are shaped to fit flush together. Each coupler half is comprised of a tongue having a ball chamber which is located within one end of the tongue. The ball chamber movably houses a ball. The ball chamber has an opening located at one side. The tongue of one coupler half is configured to align with and fit flush against the other coupler half. The ball and ball chamber are configured such that when the coupler halves are fitted together the ball in at least one of the ball chambers will apply pressure to the respective tongue securing it therein.