Magnetic Kickstand Assembly for Easier Foldable Device Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable computing devices often require manual effort to open from a closed orientation, which can be challenging for users with limited dexterity or strength, and existing solutions do not provide a seamless and automatic mechanism for opening and stabilizing the device in an open position.
Innovation Solution
The kickstand assembly for foldable computing devices includes a backplate with a deploy magnet, an upper kickstand plate slidably connected to the backplate, and a lower kickstand plate rotatably coupled to the upper kickstand plate. By laterally translating the upper kickstand plate, the kickstand opening magnet repels the backplate deploy magnet, causing the lower kickstand plate to rotate and automatically deploy. Additionally, magnets are used to bias the frames open and retain them in the open orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual effort is used to open the foldable computing device from closed orientation, then the device can be opened, but it requires significant force and is challenging for users with limited dexterity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical manual opening system with a magnetically-assisted system. Magnets are strategically positioned to provide automatic assistance during the opening transition, reducing the manual force required while maintaining reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnets as an intermediary element between the user's manual input and the device frames. These magnets create attractive or repulsive forces that assist the opening motion, acting as a force mediator that reduces the effort needed by the user.
2Ease of operation
If a kickstand mechanism is added to automatically deploy and stabilize the device, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the kickstand deployment mechanism with the device opening mechanism. The same magnetic forces and structural movements that open the device also trigger kickstand deployment, eliminating the need for separate controls or mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The kickstand structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support when deployed, acts as a visual indicator of device state, and works in conjunction with magnets to assist both opening and closing transitions. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If magnets are used to retain frames in open orientation, then stability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies magnetic retention forces at specific localized positions where frames naturally tend to rest in open orientations. By positioning magnets at these critical local points rather than distributing them uniformly, the system achieves stable retention with relaxed overall manufacturing tolerances.
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 allows users to easily open the foldable computing device from a closed orientation without manual force, and the magnets ensure the device remains stable and secure in the open position, enhancing usability for all users.
Implementation Method 1
the kickstand opening magnet repels the backplate deploy magnet to cause the lower kickstand plate to rotate about the upper kickstand plate
Implementation Method 2
a device opening magnet that repels the frame opening magnet in the second frame to bias the first frame and the second frame to rotate open from a closed orientation
Implementation Method 3
The lower kickstand plate comprises a closing magnet that attracts the backplate deploy magnet
Implementation Method 4
the plate holding magnet attracts the frame holding magnet to retain the first frame and the second frame in the open orientation
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of kickstand assemblies for foldable computing devices are provided. In one example, in a foldable computing device comprising a first frame rotatably coupled to a second frame, a method of using a kickstand assembly to release the first frame and the second frame from a closed orientation comprises sliding an upper kickstand plate of the kickstand assembly in a lateral direction relative to the first frame. The method includes, at least on condition of sliding the upper kickstand plate in the lateral direction, biasing the first frame and the second frame to rotate open from the closed orientation.