Magnetic Display Positioning Assembly for Wide-Angle Secure Pivoting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices with rotatable or foldable portions, such as clamshell-type devices, are limited in the range of angles or orientations that one portion can assume relative to another, necessitating improved mechanisms for secure and versatile positioning of display portions.

Innovation Solution

A display positioning assembly utilizing ferromagnetic components, such as magnets, in the base and display portions, allowing the display to pivot and be securely positioned at various angles via magnetic attraction, facilitated by a collapsible support member and an elongated pocket for smooth movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If rigid affixation is used to secure the display portion to the base portion, then the display can be firmly positioned, but the range of angles and orientations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange of angles and orientationsVSAvoidsecure positioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces rigid mechanical affixation with a magnetic field-based positioning system. Ferromagnetic components in the base portion interact with ferromagnetic components in the display portion through magnetic attraction, allowing the display to be securely held at various angles without rigid mechanical connection. This substitution enables continuous adjustment of display orientation while maintaining secure positioning.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces moveable ferromagnetic components that can dynamically adjust their positions within the base and display portions. This dynamic capability allows the magnetic positioning system to adapt to different display angles and orientations, providing both versatility and secure positioning through the interaction of moveable magnetic components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the display portion is rigidly affixed to the base portion, then structural stability is maintained, but ease of repositioning is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of repositioningVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces rigid mechanical affixation with magnetic field interaction, allowing the display portion to be easily repositioned by overcoming magnetic attraction rather than breaking mechanical bonds. The moveable ferromagnetic components enable smooth repositioning while the magnetic force maintains structural stability during use.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces ferromagnetic components as intermediaries between the base portion and display portion. These components mediate the interaction through magnetic fields, providing both ease of repositioning (by allowing controlled movement of magnetic components) and structural stability (through consistent magnetic attraction).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 the display to be easily and conveniently positioned in a wide variety of orientations, enhancing user flexibility and functionality without rigid affixation, while maintaining secure attachment.

Implementation Method 1

A display positioning assembly utilizing ferromagnetic components, such as magnets, in the base and display portions, allowing the display to pivot and be securely positioned at various angles via magnetic attraction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP4730078A2Display positioning assembly
Publication Date: 2026.04.22 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • EP4730078A2 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP4730078A2 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP4730078A2 patent drawingFigure 2B~2C

AI summary

A display positioning assembly comprises a base portion and a display portion. The base portion comprises a base ferromagnetic component moveably retained within an elongated pocket of the base portion. The base ferromagnetic component is moveably retained within the elongated pocket. The display portion comprises a display ferromagnetic component. The display portion is moveably coupled to the base portion. One or both of the base ferromagnetic component and display ferromagnetic component is a magnet. The base portion further includes a trackpad, and at least a portion of the elongated pocket is disposed beneath the trackpad.