Memory-Wire Latch Locking for Low-Profile Display Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic device designs face challenges in manufacturing due to the close positioning of internal components, leading to high rates of display failure when disassembled, particularly with low-profile adhesive retention solutions that 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, featuring a manual reset post to return the latch to the locked position, minimizing damage and repair costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If adhesive retention solutions are used to attach display screen to chassis, then the device maintains a low-profile design, but the display fails at high rates when disassembled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the adhesive retention system with a mechanical locking mechanism comprising a latch and memory wire. The latch engages with retention features on the display and chassis, providing a mechanical connection that eliminates the reliability issues of adhesive bonds during disassembly while maintaining the low-profile design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the retention mechanism from chemical adhesion to mechanical interlocking. The latch transitions between locked and unlocked positions, and the memory wire provides controlled movement, fundamentally changing how the display is retained without increasing device profile.
2Reliability
If manual mechanisms are used to address disassembly failure, then display retention reliability improves, but manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the memory wire, which automatically moves the latch between locked and unlocked positions in response to thermal or electrical stimuli. This eliminates the need for manual intervention during assembly and disassembly, improving manufacturing efficiency while maintaining high disassembly reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated memory wire system that responds to thermal or electrical inputs. This substitution eliminates time-costly manual mechanisms while providing reliable, repeatable locking and unlocking actions during manufacturing and service.
3Volume of moving object
If internal device components are positioned closer together to decrease device size, then device compactness improves, but manufacturing design challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is nested within the existing device structure, with the latch integrated into the chassis and the memory wire routed through available spaces. The retention features are incorporated into the display assembly itself, allowing close component positioning without complicating manufacturing design.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch and memory wire mechanism serves multiple functions: securing the display during operation, enabling controlled disassembly for repair, and maintaining a compact form factor. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, simplifying manufacturing design despite close component spacing.
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 a minimal form factor 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
Implementation Method 2
a manual reset post detachably coupled with the latch, wherein the manual reset post is configured to return the latch into the locked position following movement of the latch between the locked position and the unlocked position
Data Source
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AI summary
Locking mechanisms and electronic devices having locking mechanisms are described herein. In one example, a locking mechanism includes a latch (216) configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein a component of the electronic device (200) is secured in the locked position and removable in the unlocked position. The locking mechanism further includes a memory wire (218) 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 (202) of the electronic device.