Angle-Based Hinge Locking for Portable Computing Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable computing device docking apparatuses require users to manually press a button and pull the device to detach it, making the separation process inconvenient and difficult.
Innovation Solution
A portable computing device docking apparatus with a hinge unit that allows the device to be locked and unlocked by rotating to specific angles, enabling easy detachment by exceeding a predetermined angle range, utilizing a cam surface and hooking mechanism for secure locking and release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional locking structure with a button is used, then the portable computing device can be securely locked to the docking apparatus, but the separation process becomes inconvenient and difficult requiring consistent manual pressing
Solution Approach 1:
The locking structure transitions from a static button-press mechanism to a dynamic angle-based locking system. The hinge unit automatically locks or releases based on the mounting unit's rotation angle, eliminating the need for manual button pressing during separation while maintaining secure locking during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs the locking and releasing actions automatically based on the user's rotation input. When the user rotates the mounting unit to a specific angle, the hinge unit self-actuates to lock or release the portable computing device without requiring additional manual operations.
2Reliability
If a button-based locking mechanism is used, then the device can be locked, but the user must consistently press the button with one hand while pulling with the other hand
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and releasing functions are merged into a single rotational motion. The user performs one action (rotating the mounting unit) that simultaneously triggers both the locking or releasing mechanism, eliminating the need for separate button pressing and pulling actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex multi-step button pressing operation is extracted and replaced by a simple rotational gesture. The hinge unit's cam surface and hooking part mechanism extract the essential locking function while removing the cumbersome button-pressing step.
3Ease of operation
If the mounting unit is rotated to a second angle range exceeding the first angle range, then the locking is released, but the cam protrusion must slide along the cam surface
Solution Approach 1:
The cam surface is designed with a curved profile that guides the cam protrusion during rotation. This curved geometry naturally converts the rotational motion into the required sliding motion along the axial direction, enabling automatic hook release without additional mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam surface acts as an intermediary element between the rotational input and the locking hook. As the mounting unit rotates, the cam surface mediates the motion transformation, causing the cam protrusion to slide and push the hook out of the locking groove automatically.
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
Facilitates easy and convenient detachment of the portable computing device from the docking apparatus by rotating to a specific angle, improving user experience compared to conventional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a cam surface formed in one end of the connection member (340), a first hinge shaft (320) inserted into the connection member (340) and rotatably connected to the input unit (100), a second hinge shaft (330) disposed coaxially with the first hinge shaft (320) and fixed to the connection member (340), and a hooking part (360) including a cam protrusion (365) in cam contact with the cam surface (347)
Data Source
AI summary
A portable computing device docking apparatus includes an input unit to input a user command, a mounting unit disposed on one side of the input unit, into which one end portion of a portable computing device is separately inserted, and a hinge unit to interconnect the input unit and the mounting unit, and selectively lock and release the portable computing device according to an angle formed by the portable computing device mounted on the mounting unit and the input unit.