Magnetic Hinge Mechanism for Detachable Tablet Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In two-in-one detachable laptop computers, the protruding hinge pillar is prone to damage and aesthetically limiting due to its outward protrusion, and the hinge mechanism can be inconvenient when the tablet computer is rotated, leading to potential separation issues.
Innovation Solution
A portable electronic device design featuring a hinge base with a concave portion and a rotating element attached by a magnet, which is accommodated within the concave portion and attracted to a stronger magnet on the tablet computer's housing, allowing for adjustable inclination without protrusion and enhanced protection from external forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the protruding pillar is designed to extend outward from the hinge base, then the tablet computer can be rotated to adjust inclination, but the protruding pillar protrudes too much (6-8mm) which limits outer appearance and makes it prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating element is nested within the hinge base structure. When the tablet computer is detached, the rotating element retracts into the hinge base, making it substantially flush with the outer surface. This nesting approach eliminates the problematic protrusion while preserving the rotation function when the tablet is attached.
2Shape
If the protruding pillar height is reduced to improve appearance, then the outer appearance is improved, but the protruding pillar may easily separate from the recess of the tablet computer when rotated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines magnetic attraction force with mechanical engagement. The rotating element has both a magnetic component for attraction and a mechanical recess for physical engagement. This merging of magnetic and mechanical connection methods ensures reliable connection while allowing the rotating element to remain substantially flush with the hinge base outer surface.
3Reliability
If the protruding pillar is designed with sufficient height for reliable connection, then the connection reliability is improved, but the protruding pillar protrudes outward too much which is aesthetically limiting and prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating element is designed to nest within the hinge base when not in use, making it substantially flush with the outer surface. This eliminates exposure to external forces that could cause damage. The nesting structure is achieved through the interaction between the magnetic component and magnetic component recess, which guide the rotating element into its retracted position.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic attraction provides a cushioning force that prevents the rotating element from fully protruding outward. The magnetic field creates a protective zone that absorbs external forces before they can cause damage to the rotating element or its connection mechanism.
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
The design allows for adjustable tablet computer inclination while minimizing the risk of damage and improving aesthetics by keeping the rotating element within the hinge base, ensuring secure attachment and easy detachment without protrusion.
Implementation Method 1
The first magnet is located on the hinge base. The position of the first magnet corresponds to the position of the rotating element. When the rotating element is attached to the first magnet, the rotating element is accommodated in the first concave portion.
Implementation Method 2
The second magnet is located on the oblique wall. The magnetic force of the second magnet is greater than the magnetic force of the first magnet. When the second concave portion is adjacent to the first concave portion, the rotating element is attracted by the second magnet to pivot to the second concave portion from the first concave portion
Data Source
AI summary
A portable electronic device includes an expansion assembly and a tablet computer. The expansion assembly includes a hinge base, a rotating element, and a first magnet. The hinge base is located on the expansion assembly and has a first concave portion. The rotating element is pivoted to the first concave portion. The first magnet is located on the hinge base. The position of the first magnet corresponds to the position of the rotating element. The tablet computer includes a housing and a second magnet. The housing has a second concave portion. The position of the second concave portion corresponds to the position of the first concave portion and the second concave portion has an oblique wall. The second magnet is located on the oblique wall and the magnetic force of the second magnet is greater than the magnetic force of the first magnet.