Keypad Module Latch Mechanism for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and removal of multiple keypad assemblies in mobile computing devices are costly and time-consuming, and existing solutions fail to effectively guard against fluid and dust ingress, increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A mobile computing device design featuring a latch mechanism that securely engages and disengages keypad modules within a bay, reducing the need for external fasteners and incorporating an access compartment for easy module installation and removal, while providing ingress protection through a seal and cam mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple keypad assemblies are installed and removed in mobile computing devices, then different input assemblies can be accommodated, but the process becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The keypad assembly is designed as a separate, modular module that can be independently installed and removed from the mobile computing device. The keypad module includes a housing with a bay that receives the keypad assembly, allowing the entire assembly to be treated as one replaceable unit rather than requiring disassembly of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
A latch mechanism is provided that can be moved between engaged and disengaged positions to secure or release the keypad assembly. The latch includes a body with a head that engages with a corresponding feature on the keypad assembly, allowing rapid securing and releasing through simple linear movement rather than complex fastening operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If keypad assemblies are made removable for different layouts, then versatility is improved, but protection against fluid and dust ingress becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing features are integrated directly into the latch mechanism and keypad assembly housing rather than being separate components. The latch body and head incorporate sealing surfaces that work with corresponding surfaces on the keypad assembly, combining the fastening and sealing functions into a single integrated mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
A seal is provided that can be flexibly positioned to engage with the keypad assembly during installation. The seal includes a body with a flange that can be elastically deformed to accommodate slight variations in assembly dimensions, ensuring a tight seal against fluids and dust without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms.
3Reliability
If external fasteners are used to secure keypad assemblies, then secure attachment is achieved, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is extracted from separate external fasteners and integrated into the latch mechanism itself. The latch body and head form an integrated locking system that secures the keypad assembly without requiring additional screws, clips, or other external fastening components, thereby reducing part count and assembly complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile computing device includes: a housing with a lower wall, a keypad seat and side walls joining the lower wall to the keypad seat and extending upwards from the keypad seat to a bay opening. The walls define an access compartment between the lower wall, the side walls and the keypad seat, and a keypad bay for a keypad module between the keypad seat, the side walls and the bay opening. The device includes a latch slidably mounted to the keypad seat between locked and unlocked positions, including: a hook to engage a keypad module recess in the locked position and secure the keypad module in the bay, and to disengage from the recess in the unlocked position to enable removal of the keypad module; and an activation member in the access compartment to receive an input to transition the latch from the unlocked position to the locked position.