Magnet Biasing Mechanism for Removable Input Component Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The assembly of computing device components using mechanical fastening mechanisms and adhesives complicates the assembly process and affects the performance and durability of computing devices, limiting flexibility and ease of troubleshooting.

Innovation Solution

A magnet biasing mechanism is introduced, comprising a magnet attached to a biasing mechanism via adhesive, magnetic bond, or friction, which is securely fastened to the internal chassis using screws and nuts, allowing the magnet to be removably attached and providing a flexible assembly solution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If mechanical fastening mechanisms and adhesives are used to mount components, then the mounting strength and reliability are improved, but the assembly process complexity and difficulty of troubleshooting increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting reliabilityVSAvoidassembly process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical fastening mechanisms (screws, clips, adhesives) with a magnetic field-based fastening system. The magnet assembly uses magnetic attraction forces to secure components to the chassis, eliminating the need for mechanical fasteners and adhesive bonding processes. This substitution simplifies the assembly process while maintaining reliable component mounting through controllable magnetic forces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Strength

If mechanical fastening mechanisms and adhesives are used to mount components, then the mounting strength is improved, but the ease of repair and reconfiguration decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting strengthVSAvoidease of component removal
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic fastening system replaces permanent mechanical fastening methods, allowing components to be easily removed and repositioned by simply overcoming the magnetic attraction force. This provides both strong mounting during operation and ease of repair/reconfiguration when needed, as components can be detached without damaging adhesives or stripping mechanical fasteners.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Stability of the object's composition

If magnets are permanently attached to the chassis, then the structural stability is improved, but the flexibility for troubleshooting and reconfiguration is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidflexibility for troubleshooting
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic fastening system where the magnetic attachment strength can be adjusted or deactivated as needed. The magnet assembly can be temporarily detached for troubleshooting by applying sufficient force to overcome magnetic attraction, then reattached when complete. This dynamic capability provides both structural stability during operation and adaptability for maintenance activities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 simplifies the assembly process, enhances the flexibility of component placement, and facilitates troubleshooting by allowing the magnet to be easily attached and detached, improving the overall durability and performance of computing devices.

Implementation Method 1

a magnet located along an internal chassis of the input component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

a biasing mechanism located between the magnet and a ledge of the internal chassis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10303221B2Magnet biasing mechanism
Publication Date: 2019.05.28 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • US10303221B2 patent drawing
  • US10303221B2 patent drawing
  • US10303221B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An input component of a computing device disclosed herein includes a magnet located along an internal chassis of the input component, a biasing mechanism located between the magnet and a ledge of the internal chassis, and a fastening mechanism configured to attach the biasing mechanism to the ledge of the internal chassis such that the magnet is removably or non-permanently attached to the internal chassis. In one implementation, the magnet is glued to the biasing mechanism.