Multi-axis Retention Assembly for Input Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The user experience is diminished when input devices such as styluses and mice are lost or misplaced, as existing solutions either lack reliability or compromise convenience and device thickness.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axis retention assembly is integrated into the device, featuring a trough with pivoting levers and magnetic elements that provide retention forces both perpendicular and parallel to the device surface, securely storing the input device while maintaining device thickness and user accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple groove or magnetic element is used to retain the input device, then the device structure remains simple and thin, but the retention reliability is insufficient and the input device can be knocked off
Solution Approach 1:
The retention assembly employs dynamic levers that can pivot between a first position (when the input device is inserted) and a second position (when the input device is removed). These levers automatically adjust their configuration based on the presence of the input device, providing adaptive retention forces that improve reliability without requiring a complex fixed structure
Solution Approach 2:
The retention assembly is divided into multiple independent levers that work together to provide retention forces. Each lever can independently engage with the input device, and their combined action creates a robust retention system that is more reliable than a single-element solution while maintaining structural efficiency
2Reliability
If a retention mechanism that totally encases the input device is used, then the retention reliability is enhanced, but the device thickness increases and real estate is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The retention levers are nested within the device housing in a space-efficient manner. When the input device is inserted, the levers pivot to engage with it from within the available internal space, providing reliable retention without requiring the device to be thicker than the input device itself. The levers effectively utilize the vertical space between the display and the back of the device
3Reliability
If a complex retention mechanism is used to ensure secure storage, then the retention reliability improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates and users eventually lose the input device
Solution Approach 1:
The retention assembly is designed to automatically respond to the insertion and removal of the input device without requiring user intervention to activate locking mechanisms. When the input device is inserted, the levers automatically pivot into the engaged position; when removed, they automatically return to the disengaged position. This self-actuating mechanism maintains reliability while preserving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic nature of the pivoting levers allows them to smoothly transition between engaged and disengaged states, providing a user-friendly experience. The mechanical design ensures that the levers can be easily actuated by the natural motion of inserting or removing the input device, without requiring excessive force or complex user actions
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 multi-axis retention assembly effectively retains the input device in various use scenarios, including sliding contact, while allowing easy stowage and removal, thus enhancing user experience and device usability.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic elements that provide retention forces both perpendicular and parallel to the device surface
Implementation Method 2
a pair of opposing levers that are contained in the trough when the trough is empty and that pivot proud out of the trough around and against the input device installed in the trough
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
The description relates to securely storing an input device (104) relative to a computing device (102). One example can include a housing (16) and a trough (126) defined in the housing and configured to receive at least a portion of an input device. This example can also include a pair of opposing levers (128(1), 128(2)) that are contained in the trough when the trough is empty and that pivot proud out of the trough around and against the input device installed in the trough.