Magnetic Display Module Positioning via Angle-Dependent Force

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices, such as notebook computers, face challenges in manufacturing due to complex structures used to fix the display module relative to the host, leading to increased costs and complexity, while also requiring a lightweight and easy-to-assemble design that allows for various operational statuses.

Innovation Solution

The electronic device incorporates a display module, a computer module, a frame, and magnetic attraction elements, where the magnetic attraction element is movably positioned between two angles based on the frame's angle relative to the computer module, using magnets and a T-shaped magnetic attraction element to vary the magnetic force and allow for pivoting and rotation of the display module.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If complicated structures are used to fix the display module relative to the host, then the position of the display module can be fixed securely, but the manufacturing cost increases and the device becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition fixationVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complicated mechanical fixation structures with a magnetic field-based positioning system. Magnetic elements are embedded in the host housing and display module, creating magnetic attraction forces that securely hold the display module at specific angles without requiring complex mechanical clips, springs, or latches. This substitution simplifies the overall structure while maintaining reliable position fixation.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses magnetic field strength parameters to control the positioning of the display module. By adjusting the magnetic element configurations and positions, the system achieves secure fixation at different angles (first angle and second angle) through controlled magnetic attraction forces, eliminating the need for complex mechanical positioning structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If complicated structures are used to fix the display module relative to the host, then the position of the display module can be fixed securely, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition fixationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive and complex mechanical fixation structures with simpler magnetic elements that can be manufactured and assembled more easily. The magnetic positioning system requires fewer precision-machined parts and assembly steps, directly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining secure position fixation.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the essential function of position fixation from complex mechanical structures and implements it through a simplified magnetic field-based system. By taking out only the necessary magnetic elements and eliminating unnecessary mechanical components, the manufacturing process becomes simpler and more cost-effective.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Device complexity

If the display module is directly pivoted to the host, then the structure is simpler, but the display module cannot be rotated or removed easily

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidrotation and removal capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a dynamic positioning system where the display module can be held at different stable positions (first angle and second angle) through magnetic attraction forces. The magnetic elements are positioned such that they provide stable fixation at specific angles while allowing the module to be rotated between positions and easily removed when needed, combining structural simplicity with operational versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the host and display module, enabling the module to be held securely at different positions without direct rigid mechanical connection. This intermediary magnetic force system allows the display module to pivot, rotate, and be removed easily while maintaining a simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Adaptability or versatility

If the display module is not directly pivoted to the host but connected through a frame, then the display module can be rotated or removed, but the structure becomes more complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotation and removal capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the need for a complex mechanical frame structure with a magnetic field-based positioning system. Magnetic elements embedded in the host and display module create attraction forces that enable the display module to be held at different angles, rotated, and removed without requiring a physical frame, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining versatility.

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

This solution simplifies the assembly and manufacturing process, reduces costs, and enables the electronic device to operate in multiple statuses by using magnetic forces to securely position the display module, allowing for easy adjustment and rotation, thus enhancing user convenience and device functionality.

Implementation Method 1

an attraction force between the first magnetic element and the magnetic attraction element is greater than that between the second magnetic element and the magnetic attraction element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS9568957B2Electronic device
Publication Date: 2017.02.14 ACER INC
  • US9568957B2 patent drawing
  • US9568957B2 patent drawing
  • US9568957B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device is provided, which includes a display module, a computer module, and a frame. The display module includes a first magnetic element. The computer module includes a second magnetic element. A magnetic attraction element is positioned corresponding to the first and the second magnetic elements and is movably disposed in the frame. A magnetic force produced between the magnetic attraction element and the second magnetic element is varied according to the positioning angle of the supporting frame relative to the computer module. When the positioning angle is greater than a threshold value, the magnetic force is large enough to attract the magnetic attraction element so as to release the display module to move relative to the frame.