Movable Display Member Ergonomic Angle Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld mobile communication devices face challenges in ergonomics and usability due to their small size, limited surface area, and the need for both a display screen and keyboard, which often results in the screen being obstructed during data entry, and the keypad being prone to unintentional actuation.
Innovation Solution
The device features a display member that moves to an ergonomically desirable angle relative to the keypad member, allowing the screen to remain exposed while maintaining a compact form factor, and includes a trackball for navigation to avoid interference during keyboard use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the display member is tilted upward at an ergonomic angle (approximately 155°) relative to the keypad member, then the ergonomics and usability are improved, but the hinge connection becomes a weak point in the construction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical hinge connection with a magnetic field-based coupling system. The display member and keypad member are connected through magnetic attraction forces rather than physical hinges, eliminating the mechanical weak point while maintaining the ergonomic tilted configuration. The magnetic coupling allows the display to be held at the desired angle without relying on a fragile hinge mechanism.
2Reliability
If the display member covers the keypad when closed to prevent unintentional actuation, then the reliability is improved, but the screen may be obstructed during data entry
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into functionally independent members: the display member and the keypad member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its primary function without interfering with the other. The display can remain fully visible while the keypad operates independently, eliminating the need for the display to cover the keypad for protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar, closed configuration to a three-dimensional spatial arrangement where the display member is tilted at an ergonomic angle relative to the keypad member. This dimensional change allows both the display and keypad to be simultaneously accessible and visible, resolving the conflict between screen visibility and key protection.
3Volume of moving object
If the device is made compact to improve portability, then the volume is reduced, but the surface area for display and keyboard is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement by tilting the display member at an ergonomic angle relative to the keypad member. This dimensional approach allows the device to maintain a compact volume while providing sufficient surface area for both display and keyboard functions through optimized spatial configuration rather than simply increasing overall device size.
Data Source
AI summary
Handheld mobile communication devices according to the disclosure have a closed position, in which the display member of the device covers at least a portion of the keys of on the keypad member of the device, and an open position, in which the keys are accessible and the device is operated. When the display member is in the open position, it forms an ergonomically desirable angle (e.g., on the order of about 155°) relative to the keypad member. However, unlike clamshell-type cellular phones, the display member does not simply flip open about a conventional pivot joint. Rather, it moves from the closed position, where it is parallel and adjacent to the keypad member, to the open, angled position through a sliding/sweeping motion; through an eccentric, “up-and-over” rotational motion; or through a combination sliding/“up-and-over” motion.