Pivotable Cover External Keyboard for Tablet Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional external keyboards for tablet computers are complex to operate and lack stability, and do not have a protective mechanism to prevent damage from dust and mist.
Innovation Solution
An external extension with a base featuring a keyboard module, a pivotable protecting cover, and a magnetic component to securely hold the portable computer, forming a visual angle for improved stability and protection, while allowing signal transmission and audio integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional external keyboard with a supporting mechanism is used to hold a tablet computer, then the keyboard can be positioned at different angles, but the operation becomes complex and the holding stability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into functionally independent areas: a keyboard area, a touchscreen display area, and a sunken third area for holding the tablet. This segmentation allows each area to perform its specific function without interfering with others, simplifying operation while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex supporting mechanism to hold the tablet, the invention inverts the approach by using a protecting cover that can pivot to different positions. The cover serves dual purposes: protecting the keyboard when closed and holding the tablet when opened, thereby simplifying the holding mechanism while maintaining angle adaptability
2Device complexity
If a conventional external keyboard is used without a protecting mechanism, then the structure remains simple, but the buttons are easily damaged by dust and mist
Solution Approach 1:
The protecting cover is merged with the keyboard structure, forming an integrated unit. This cover not only protects the keyboard from dust and mist but also serves as a structural component that can hold the tablet computer, thereby adding protection without significantly increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The protecting cover is designed with multi-functionality: it protects the keyboard module from environmental factors, serves as a structural support for the tablet computer, and can be pivoted to different positions. This universal design adds protection while maintaining structural efficiency
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the protecting cover is designed to cover the keyboard module, then the keyboard is protected from dust and mist, but the operational convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The protecting cover is designed to be pivotable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically change position between covering the keyboard for protection and opening to allow access. This dynamic design maintains protection capability while restoring operational convenience when needed
4Stability of the object's composition
If the protecting cover pivots to hold the portable computer, then the holding stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protecting cover serves multiple functions: protecting the keyboard, holding the tablet computer at different angles, and forming a visual angle for proper viewing. This multi-functionality achieves holding stability without requiring additional dedicated supporting mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
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 external extension provides enhanced stability and protection for the portable computer, allowing for comfortable operation and preventing damage from dust and mist, while enabling efficient signal transmission and audio output.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic component disposed on the base for attracting the portable computer so as to combine the external extension with the portable computer
Data Source
AI summary
An external extension for holding a portable computer includes a base, a keyboard module disposed on a first area of the base, a pin set disposed on a third area of the base and electrically connected to the keyboard module, and a protecting cover disposed on the first area in a pivotable manner and adjacent to a second area of the base. The protecting cover covers the keyboard module when the protecting cover pivots relative to the base at a first position. The protecting cover is for holding the portable computer when the protecting cover pivots relative to the base at a second position and a side of the protecting cover contacts against a lateral side of the second area, so that a visual angle can be formed between the portable computer and the keyboard module.