Magnetic Latch for Display Module Z-Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display systems face challenges in allowing easy access to components for adjusting z-directional spacing between a display board and a carrier while minimizing wasted display surface, as external attachment apparatuses occupy valuable space.

Innovation Solution

The use of internal biasing elements and a latching system with magnet subassemblies that adjust the z-directional distance between the display board and the carrier, allowing for mounting and dismounting without external space dedication, utilizing a magnetic attraction mechanism for secure attachment and detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If external attachment apparatuses are used to securely mount the display module to the support chassis, then the mounting reliability is improved, but the display surface area is reduced due to occupied space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting reliabilityVSAvoiddisplay surface area
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The latch assembly is nested within the module support structure, with the first magnet positioned in a cavity and the second magnet extending through a passage. This nesting allows the latching mechanism to be integrated into the display module without occupying external display surface area, while still providing secure mounting through the magnetic attraction between the second magnet and the third magnet on the support chassis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical fasteners (screws, clips, or external latches) with a magnetic field-based latching system. The magnetic attraction between the second magnet and the third magnet provides secure mounting without requiring physical contact or external attachment apparatuses that would occupy display surface area. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical components that would protrude or occupy space on the display surface.

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

2Ease of operation

If internal biasing elements are used to adjust z-directional spacing, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment easeVSAvoidlatch assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shaft acts as an intermediary mechanical element that transmits the linear motion of the first magnet to the second magnet, enabling coordinated movement between the two magnets. This intermediary mechanism allows the first magnet to serve as an actuation point for adjusting z-directional spacing, while the shaft ensures that the second magnet moves in correspondence to maintain proper latching geometry. The shaft simplifies the adjustment operation by providing a direct mechanical linkage rather than requiring independent adjustment of multiple components.

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

This solution enables efficient use of the entire display surface for content while providing easy access to adjustment components, ensuring minimal waste of display area and secure mounting without external fasteners.

Implementation Method 1

A magnetic attraction between the second magnet and a corresponding third magnet attached to the support chassis is stronger when the second magnet is in the first corresponding position than when the second magnet is in the second corresponding position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3669347B1Magnetic latch for a display module
Publication Date: 2023.05.24 DAKTRONICS INC
  • EP3669347B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3669347B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3669347B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a display module (12). The module includes a module support structure, a plurality of light-emitting elements coupled to the module support structure, and one or more latch assemblies (40) configured to removeably couple the module support structure to a support chassis (14). Each of the one or more latch assemblies includes a first magnet (42) movably coupled with the module support structure at a first location. The assemblies further include a second magnet (46) movably coupled with the module support structure at a second location. The second magnet is movable relative to the module support structure between a first corresponding position and a second corresponding position. The assemblies further include a shaft (51) connecting the first magnet and the second magnet so that the first magnet and the second magnet move together.