Pivoting Contact Surfaces for Shear-Resistant Stylus Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Peripheral devices, such as styluses, tend to disconnect from electronic devices due to shear forces, leading to misplacement issues.
Innovation Solution
The attachment mechanisms feature rotating contact surfaces that angle relative to shear forces and are recessed within the device, secured by magnetic attraction, preventing disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the peripheral device is connected to the electronic device using conventional attachment mechanisms, then the device can be attached and used, but the connection is prone to disconnection when subjected to shear forces
Solution Approach 1:
The contact surfaces are angled relative to each other at an asymmetric angle (e.g., 45 degrees), creating an asymmetric geometric relationship that converts shear forces into compressive forces along the axis of the peripheral device, thereby preventing disconnection
Solution Approach 2:
The contact surfaces are positioned at an angle to each other, introducing a dimensional change in the force transmission path. This angular arrangement transforms the force vector components, converting lateral shear forces into axial compressive forces that strengthen the connection
2Strength
If the contact surfaces are positioned at an angle to resist shear forces, then the connection strength improves, but the attachment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism merges the contact surfaces and magnetic elements into an integrated assembly where the angled contact surfaces are built into the housing structures, eliminating the need for separate complex mechanical locking components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking systems with a simpler magnetic attachment mechanism enhanced by angled contact surfaces. The magnetic force provides the primary attachment, while the angled surfaces provide geometric reinforcement against shear forces
3Reliability
If the contact surfaces are recessed within the device, then the resistance to disconnection improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies optimal angular parameters (e.g., 45-degree angles) and recess depths that balance the mechanical advantage of the recessed configuration with manufacturability. These parameter optimizations reduce the tolerance requirements while maintaining the disconnection prevention benefit
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 solution securely attaches peripheral devices to electronic devices, reducing misplacement by resisting shear forces and maintaining a stable connection.
Implementation Method 1
secured by magnetic attraction, preventing disconnection
Data Source
AI summary
An example system includes a peripheral device including a first contact surface, and an electronic device including a housing, a second contact surface aligned with a surface of the housing, and a hinge coupled to the second contact surface. The second contact surface is to pivot into the housing about the hinge in response to an engagement with the first contact surface of the peripheral device.