Magnetic Latch Kinematics Optimization via In-Situ Force Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manufacturing and assembly tolerances in portable computing devices, such as laptops, lead to variations in kinematics affecting the user experience, including the ease of opening and closing, due to factors like gap variations and magnetic strength inconsistencies, resulting in inconsistent unlatch forces.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for optimizing the kinematics of a magnetic latch by determining the release force required, assessing deviations from a reference datum, and adjusting the magnetic properties of the magnetic element in-situ to ensure the unlatch force falls within an acceptable range, using a post-assembly quality check station equipped with a release force analyzer and magnetic adjuster.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manufacturing and assembly tolerances are reduced to achieve consistent kinematics, then manufacturing precision improves, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by adjusting the magnetic latch properties during the assembly process itself, rather than requiring precision in subsequent manufacturing steps. The magnetic element's strength is calibrated in advance to compensate for expected tolerances in mechanical components, ensuring consistent kinematics without requiring tighter manufacturing tolerances across all parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the magnetic field strength of the magnetic element to compensate for variations in mechanical tolerances. By adjusting the magnetic parameter (field strength) rather than mechanical parameters (gap distances, component dimensions), the system achieves consistent kinematic behavior while maintaining simpler manufacturing processes.
2Force
If magnetic mass or strength is increased to enhance magnetic attraction force, then magnetic force improves, but device weight and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the magnetic field strength through electromagnetic actuation rather than increasing magnetic mass. The system varies the current through the coil to change the magnetic field intensity, achieving the desired magnetic attraction force without adding more magnetic material or increasing the size of magnetic elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces a purely mechanical magnetic latch system with an electromechanical system where electromagnetic forces are used to control the latching and unlatching actions. This substitution allows dynamic control of magnetic force through electrical parameters rather than relying on fixed mechanical properties or increased magnetic mass.
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 approach ensures a consistent and optimal user experience by standardizing the unlatch force across devices, reducing variations caused by manufacturing and assembly tolerances, and enhancing the magnetic attraction force without increasing magnetic mass or strength.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic adjuster configured to adjust magnetic properties of the magnetic latch in-situ in accordance with the determined release force
Data Source
AI summary
Method, system, and apparatus for optimizing kinematics of a magnetic latch having a magnetic element is disclosed.