Portable Device Hinge Optical Sensor Nesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable devices, such as laptops, face challenges in achieving a slim design while incorporating optical remote sensing systems for eye- and gesture tracking due to power consumption and thermal dissipation requirements, which limit component placement and device compactness.
Innovation Solution
Integrating the optical remote sensing system within the hinge mechanism of portable devices, allowing it to be contained in a recess during closed mode, with a projection of the hinge system providing adequate cooling and maintaining a slim profile, and utilizing a combination of image registering units and illuminators, including near-infrared light sources for efficient tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the optical remote sensing system is integrated into the portable device, then eye- and gesture tracking functionality is achieved, but the device thickness increases due to thermal dissipation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The optical remote sensing system is nested within the hinge mechanism of the portable device. The hinge housing contains the optical system components, and the system is positioned such that it is at least partly contained within the recess of the first part when the device is closed, effectively utilizing the hinge volume for dual purposes: mechanical connection and optical system housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the third dimension by positioning the optical remote sensing system in the hinge area, which is a different spatial dimension compared to conventional placements on the display or keyboard. The system extends into a projection of the second part, utilizing the depth and volume of the hinge mechanism rather than adding thickness to the main device body.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the optical remote sensing system is integrated into the portable device, then tracking functionality is achieved, but the device becomes bulkier due to power consumption and thermal dissipation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides the mechanical connection between display and keyboard, enables device folding and portability, and simultaneously houses the optical remote sensing system with adequate cooling volume. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated space for the optical system, preventing additional bulkiness.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical remote sensing system is nested within the hinge mechanism, utilizing the internal volume of the hinge for component placement. The hinge housing contains the optical system while maintaining the slim profile of the main device body, as the optical system is contained within the recess when closed.
3Temperature
If the optical remote sensing system is positioned in the hinge mechanism, then adequate cooling volume is achieved, but the component placement becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is divided into functional segments: the first part contains a recess for receiving the optical system projection, the second part contains the optical remote sensing system, and the hinge means interconnect them. This segmentation allows for modular assembly and simplifies the placement process by defining clear boundaries and interfaces for each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism is designed with specific local characteristics: the first part has a recess at a specific position relative to the optical system, the second part has a projection containing the optical system, and the hinge means are positioned to enable relative movement. These localized features facilitate adequate cooling while maintaining a slim profile.
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
This solution enables a compact and slim portable device design with effective cooling for optical remote sensing systems, allowing for seamless integration of eye- and gesture tracking features without compromising device thickness or power efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an optical remote sensing system for eye- and/or gesture tracking
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a combination of image registering units and illuminators, including near-infrared light sources for efficient tracking
Data Source
AI summary
A portable device, e.g. a laptop, includes a first part (110), e.g. a base element, and a second part (120), e.g. a lid element. The second part (120) contains an optical remote sensing system (300). The second part (120) is pivotably attached to the first part (110) via a hinge means (115), such that the portable device may be arranged in an open and a closed position respectively. The optical remote sensing system (300) is configured to track at least one distinctive feature of a user of the portable device when arranged in the open position. The first and second parts (110; 120) have a respective essentially flat inner surface (111; 121), which when the portable device is arranged in the closed position are parallel and face one another. The first part (110) further includes a recess (112a) which is arranged relative to a position of the optical remote sensing system (300) such that, in the closed position, the optical remote sensing system (300) is at least partly contained in the recess (112a).