Memory-Wire Locking Mechanism for Low-Profile Display Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

The miniaturization of electronic devices poses challenges in manufacturing due to the close proximity of internal components, leading to high rates of display failure when disassembled, and existing low-profile adhesive solutions require time-costly manual mechanisms for disassembly.

Innovation Solution

A locking mechanism utilizing a memory wire to move a latch between locked and unlocked positions, allowing for secure attachment and easy removal of components without adhesives, minimizing damage and repair costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If adhesive retention solutions are used to attach display screen to chassis, then the device maintains a low profile, but display failure rates increase at high rates when disassembled

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice profileVSAvoiddisplay failure rate

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A retention bracket is introduced as an intermediary component between the display assembly and chassis. The bracket provides mechanical retention through locking mechanisms while maintaining the low-profile design, eliminating the need for adhesive materials that cause display failure during disassembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the adhesive-based mechanical retention system with a mechanical locking system. The locking mechanism uses a latch that engages with the retention bracket to secure the display assembly, providing reliable retention without the failure modes associated with adhesive disassembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual mechanisms are used to address disassembly failure, then display reliability improves, but manufacturing time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay retention reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the use of shape memory alloy wires. When heated, the SMA wires automatically contract to move the latch between locked and unlocked positions, eliminating the need for manual intervention during assembly or disassembly operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes temperature as a control parameter to activate the locking mechanism. By changing the temperature of the shape memory alloy wires, the system transitions between locked and unlocked states automatically, providing reliable display retention while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Length of stationary object

If internal device components are positioned closer together to decrease device size, then device dimensions are reduced, but manufacturing design challenges increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice dimensionsVSAvoidmanufacturing design ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The retention bracket and locking mechanism are nested within the existing device structure, integrating the display retention function into the available space between the display assembly and chassis. This nested design allows close component positioning while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized integration points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 solution reduces electronic device failure rates and repair costs by enabling easy detachment of components without damaging the device, maintaining minimal real-estate and reducing adhesive material usage.

Implementation Method 1

a memory wire in communication with the latch, wherein the memory wire is configured to contract in length to move the latch between the locked position and the unlocked position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape Memory Alloy: Shape Memory Alloy

Data Source

PatentUS10893724B2Locking mechanisms in electronic devices

Publication Date: 2021.01.19 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC

AI summary

Locking mechanisms and electronic devices having locking mechanisms are described herein. In one example, a locking mechanism includes a latch configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein a component of the electronic device is secured in the locked position and removable in the unlocked position. The locking mechanism further includes a memory wire in communication with the latch, wherein the memory wire is configured to contract in length to move the latch between the locked position and the unlocked position to release the component of the electronic device.