Modular Laptop Architecture for Component Reuse and Recycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The recycling and reuse of components in portable information handling systems are difficult due to their compact design and varied usage models, leading to inefficient recycling and increased environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
A modular component architecture with automated assembly and disassembly, coupled with tracking and management of component life cycles, facilitates the reuse, refurbishment, and recycling of information handling system components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If portable information handling systems use compact design, then portability and mobility are improved, but component recycling and reuse become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the information handling system into modular components (display assembly, keyboard assembly, battery, main board) that can be independently removed and recycled. The display assembly is separated from the keyboard assembly through a removable hinge mechanism, allowing each component to be individually processed for recycling while maintaining the compact portable form factor when assembled.
2Adaptability or versatility
If information handling systems use varied usage models, then adaptability to different users is improved, but tracking and managing component life cycles becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through usage tracking systems that monitor component performance and lifecycle status across different usage models. Sensors and software track battery cycles, display usage hours, keyboard keystrokes, and hinge rotations, providing data feedback to the subscription manager who optimizes component allocation and replacement strategies based on actual usage patterns from diverse user scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by creating standardized component interfaces and tracking protocols that work across multiple usage models (mobile, stationary, shared, enterprise). The modular component design with universal connection standards allows the same component lifecycle management system to handle various usage scenarios, reducing complexity despite diverse adaptability requirements.
3Productivity
If automated assembly and disassembly systems are implemented, then component reuse efficiency is improved, but system complexity and initial costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation to the automation system itself, dividing it into specialized modules for specific tasks: display removal robots, keyboard separation mechanisms, battery extraction systems, and component testing equipment. This modular automation approach improves component reuse efficiency while managing complexity by creating interchangeable, task-specific automated units rather than a single complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service features where components have built-in identification markers, tracking tags, and interface standards that enable automated systems to identify and process them without complex programming. The standardized connectors and removal mechanisms allow automated assemblies to self-align and self-assemble components, reducing the intelligence required in the automation控制系统.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable information handling system modular hybrid architecture separates components between rotationally coupled housing portions to minimize cabling, connectors and materials, and to provide improved durability that supports recycling and reuse of the components. For example, a plurality of main board configurations provide selectable performance characteristics assembled behind a display in one housing portion and powered by a battery and charger in the other housing portion. A secondary board that supports the charger provides a variety of customizable secondary functions, such as audio processing supported by integrated speakers, a keyboard interfaced with an embedded controller and held by a housing cover.