Magnetic Tablet Mount with Single Charging Coil

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users of tablet computing devices face difficulties in conveniently arranging the device and a keyboard for effective use, as existing solutions lack efficient alignment and charging mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A base system with a mount that securely holds the tablet computing device at an angle, utilizing magnetic attraction and friction hinges with torsion springs to maintain position, and a single charging coil in both the tablet and keyboard to induce current for wireless charging, enhancing stability and efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a base system with magnetic attraction is used to hold the tablet, then the tablet positioning stability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional magnetic components and alignment mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetablet positioning stabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening mechanisms (screws, clips, latches) with a magnetic field-based attachment system. Magnets embedded in the base and tablet housing create automatic attraction-based securing, eliminating complex mechanical fasteners while providing stable holding force and precise alignment through magnetic field interaction.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic attachment system provides self-aligning and self-securing functionality. When the tablet approaches the base, the magnetic field automatically guides the tablet into the correct position and secures it without requiring manual alignment or activation of fastening mechanisms, reducing the need for complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of manufacture

If a single charging coil is used for wireless charging, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the charging efficiency and reliability deteriorate compared to multiple coils

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidcharging efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The single charging coil is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the wireless power transfer coil and a magnetic component for attachment. The coil structure integrates both electromagnetic induction capabilities and magnetic field generation, eliminating the need for separate magnets and reducing component count while maintaining charging reliability through optimized coil geometry and material selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If friction hinges with torsion springs are used to maintain mount position, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional mechanical components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The friction hinge incorporates a torsion spring that provides dynamic, adjustable friction resistance. The spring allows the hinge to maintain friction force over a range of angles, enabling the mount to stay securely positioned at various tilt angles while requiring minimal force to adjust. This creates a naturally balanced system that adapts to different operational positions without complex control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 base system provides a stable and efficient way to align the tablet with the keyboard, ensuring secure positioning and wireless charging, thereby facilitating convenient and effective use of the tablet computing device with a keyboard.

Implementation Method 1

A magnet is provided in the base and a magnet is provided in the tablet, the magnet in the base and the magnet in the tablet applying a magnetic attraction force to each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

A single coil is provided in the tablet and a single coil is provided in the keyboard, the coils inducing a current in one another

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3059654B1Attaching computing device to mount by magnets
Publication Date: 2023.06.28 GOOGLE LLC
  • EP3059654B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3059654B1 patent drawingFigure 1C
  • EP3059654B1 patent drawingFigure 2A

AI summary

According to an example embodiment, a base may include a frame, a keyboard enclosed by the frame, and a mount hingedly attached to the frame. The keyboard may be configured to wirelessly communicate with a computing device. The mount may include at least one magnet configured to retain the computing device.