Magnetic Battery Locking Mechanism for Notebook Computers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional locking mechanisms for battery modules in notebook computers are cumbersome for assembly and disassembly, prone to component breakage, and inefficient in space usage, increasing manufacturing costs due to complex designs and large components.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device with a casing and battery module that utilizes magnetic members for quick and secure assembly and disassembly, featuring guiding grooves and pillars for stable locking and easy removal, allowing magnetic attraction to secure the battery module without the need for complex springs or large components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional locking mechanism with a lock member and biasing spring is used, then the battery module can be locked to the casing, but the assembly and disassembly processes are inconvenient and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assembly and disassemblyVSAvoidtime for assembly and disassembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the conventional mechanical locking mechanism (lock member with biasing spring) with a magnetic locking mechanism. The first magnetic member on the casing and the second magnetic member on the battery module create magnetic attraction force that automatically locks the battery module when inserted, eliminating the need for manual pushing and complex mechanical components. This substitution dramatically simplifies the assembly process and reduces the time required for both assembly and disassembly operations.

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

2Reliability

If a conventional locking mechanism with lock member and biasing spring is used, then the battery module can be secured, but the space inside the casing is inefficiently utilized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidspace occupation in casing
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the biasing spring component from the locking mechanism, replacing it with a magnetic field-based locking system. The magnetic members (first magnetic member on casing, second magnetic member on battery module) provide the necessary locking force without requiring physical spring components, thereby freeing up significant space inside the casing while maintaining reliable locking functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Reliability

If a conventional locking mechanism with multiple large components is used, then the battery module can be locked, but the design and manufacture are complicated and manufacturing cost is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking stabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of locking mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate components (lock member, biasing spring, engaging groove) into a simplified magnetic locking system consisting of just two magnetic members. The first magnetic member is integrated into the casing structure, and the second magnetic member is integrated into the battery module housing, eliminating the need for separate mechanical locking components and significantly reducing design and manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliable locking stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Reliability

If a conventional locking mechanism is used, then the battery module can be locked, but the risk of component breakage (particularly hook member) is high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidcomponent durability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical hook member that is prone to breaking with a magnetic locking system. The magnetic attraction force between the first and second magnetic members provides a distributed, stress-free locking mechanism that eliminates the stress concentration points and fracture risks associated with rigid mechanical hooks, thereby significantly improving component durability and reliability.

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

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

Enables convenient and efficient assembly and disassembly of the battery module, reduces the risk of component breakage, optimizes space usage, and simplifies the design and manufacturing process by leveraging magnetic attraction for secure locking and easy removal.

Implementation Method 1

The second magnetic member is disposed at the first side wall and has a magnetic attraction force with the first magnetic member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8705241B2Electronic device
Publication Date: 2014.04.22 WISTRON CORP
  • US8705241B2 patent drawing
  • US8705241B2 patent drawing
  • US8705241B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device includes a casing and a battery module removably locked to the casing. The casing includes a connecting wall, two inner side walls connected to opposite ends of the connecting wall and having pillars protruding therefrom, and a first magnetic member disposed at the connecting wall. The battery module includes a first side wall to abut against the connecting wall, and two second side walls connected to two opposite ends of the first sidewall. A second magnetic member is disposed at the first side wall and has a magnetic attraction force with the first magnetic member. Each second side wall is formed with a guiding groove extending along an insertion direction of the battery module for engaging a corresponding pillar.