Modular Laptop Lid with Magnetic Wireless Interconnects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Convertible laptop designs face mechanical complications and usability issues due to the need for electrical cables connecting the base to the lid, which hinder the transition from laptop to tablet configurations and result in thicker devices that cannot operate as thin, modular systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular electronic device design where the lid can be removable and reconfigured, utilizing a magnetic assembly and printed circuit board interconnectors to provide electrical and mechanical separation, allowing the device to operate in both clamshell and tablet modes without external cables, with the option to interchange base and lid components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical cables are used to connect the base to the lid in convertible laptop designs, then electrical connection is maintained, but mechanical complications increase and device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the electrical cable from the connection mechanism between base and lid. Instead of using a physical cable, the invention employs wireless communication technologies (such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other wireless protocols) to establish electrical connection, thereby eliminating the mechanical complications and thickness issues associated with cable integration while maintaining reliable electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-based electrical connection system with a wireless communication system. This substitution eliminates the need for physical cables, connectors, and associated mechanical structures, thereby reducing device complexity and thickness while maintaining electrical connection reliability through wireless data and power transmission.
2Reliability
If electrical cables are used to connect the base to the lid, then electrical connection is maintained, but the device cannot operate as a thin, modular system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrical cable from the system, enabling the lid to be completely separated from the base. With wireless connection technology, the lid can function as a standalone modular component (such as a detached display or tablet) while maintaining electrical connection through wireless communication, thereby achieving both thin design and modular versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the device into separable components (base and lid) that can independently function. By removing the physical cable constraint, each segment can operate autonomously or in combination, with wireless communication bridging the gap between segments, thus enabling modular operation capability while maintaining electrical connection.
3Strength
If a hinge mechanism is used to connect base and lid, then mechanical connection is provided, but the lid cannot be completely removed for standalone operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the hinge mechanism from the connection between base and lid. Instead of a permanent mechanical joint, the invention uses a detachable connection system with wireless communication, allowing the lid to be completely removed and used as a standalone device while maintaining electrical connection capability through wireless protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical hinge connection system with a wireless communication system. This substitution allows for complete separation of the lid from the base, enabling standalone operation of the lid as a detached display or tablet, while electrical connection is maintained through wireless data and power transmission without mechanical constraints.
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
Enables flexible orientation and modularity, reducing mechanical complications and allowing the device to function as a thin, versatile system with standalone capabilities for the lid, enhancing usability and eliminating the need for external cables.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic assembly and printed circuit board interconnectors to provide electrical and mechanical separation
Data Source
AI summary
Particular embodiments described herein provide for an electronic device, such as a notebook computer or laptop, that includes a circuit board coupled to a plurality of electronic components (which includes any type of components, elements, circuitry, etc.). One particular example implementation of the electronic device may include means for establishing a first electrical connection between a first base and a lid portion; and means for establishing a second electrical connection between a second base and the lid portion. The lid portion is removably coupled to a selected one of the first base and the second base.