Magnetic Latch Keyboard Assembly for Clamshell Computing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing devices with clamshell designs face challenges in providing a comfortable user experience due to springy keys, which can interfere with the user's ability to grasp the device properly, and lack of even tactile feedback, especially in orientations other than traditional notebook mode.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a magnetic latch system that secures electronic components in a component bay using magnetic attraction forces, allowing for easy swapping and configuration of assemblies, such as keyboards and displays, and utilizing corner bumpers for shock absorption and improved handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If springy keys are used in a clamshell computing device, then the keyboard can provide tactile feedback, but the springy keys interfere with the user's ability to grasp the device properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the problematic springy keys from the keyboard assembly and replaces them with a flat, non-springy key surface. This extraction of the harmful spring mechanism eliminates the interference with user grasping while preserving the tactile feedback function through alternative means such as the magnetic latch system and corner bumpers that provide consistent tactile response.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the previously harmful springy key mechanism into a beneficial magnetic latch system. The magnetic attraction force that was causing unwanted springiness is now harnessed to provide controlled tactile feedback through the corner bumpers and latch mechanism, transforming the harmful elastic force into a useful positioning and feedback system.
2Reliability
If electronic components are secured with traditional mechanical fasteners, then the components are firmly attached, but the device lacks adaptability for reconfiguration and component swapping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fasteners (screws, clips, or permanent adhesives) with a magnetic attachment system. The magnetic latch provides reliable component attachment through magnetic attraction force while allowing easy separation and reconfiguration. This substitution enables users to swap components like keyboard assemblies and displays without tools, achieving both firm attachment and high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic, reversible attachment system where components can transition between attached and detached states. The magnetic latch mechanism allows components to be firmly held during use but easily removed when needed, providing dynamic adaptability. The system can be reconfigured for different orientations and component combinations, transforming a static assembly into a flexible, user-adaptable structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If components are made easily removable for swapping, then adaptability improves, but the structural integrity and durability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces corner bumpers as intermediary elements between the component and the housing. These bumpers provide shock absorption and structural reinforcement at the attachment points, allowing the component to be easily removable via magnetic latch while maintaining overall structural integrity. The bumpers act as mediators that protect the housing and component during repeated attachment and detachment cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates corner bumpers that provide shock absorption and protective cushioning before damage can occur to the housing or component. This beforehand cushioning ensures that the repeated insertion and removal of components does not compromise structural integrity, allowing easy swapability while maintaining durability through protective elements positioned at stress points.
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
Enhances user experience by providing a consistent tactile feel across orientations and improved durability through magnetic assembly mechanisms and shock-absorbing corner bumpers, allowing for customizable configurations suitable for various user needs.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic attraction force between the bay magnets and the component magnets that mates the electrical bay contact and the electrical component contact
Implementation Method 2
utilizing corner bumpers for shock absorption and improved handling
Data Source
AI summary
A computing device can include a housing that includes a shell and a shell cover, where the shell cover includes a keyboard; and an electronic component secured in a component bay of the shell by a latch accessible upon displacement of the shell cover, where the component bay includes an electrical bay contact and bay magnets, where the electronic component includes an electrical component contact and component magnets, and where the component magnets are coupled to the latch and move responsive to actuation of the latch to lock the electronic component in the component bay via a magnetic attraction force between the bay magnets and the component magnets that mates the electrical bay contact and the electrical component contact and to unlock the electronic component for removal from the component bay.