Pivoting Speaker Module for Foldable Device Audio Exposure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices, such as notebook computers, face challenges in maintaining good playback quality when the speaker is covered by the upper body, as it is difficult to expose the function module effectively during different states of use.

Innovation Solution

The electronic device design includes a first body, a second body, and a function module, where the function module is pivoted between the two bodies and driven by a module that allows it to remain exposed regardless of the device's state, using magnetic members, gears, and torsion springs to rotate the function module to an optimal angle for functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the speaker is disposed on the lower body of the notebook computer, then the user can play audio while operating the notebook computer, but the speaker is covered by the upper body when closed, making it difficult to maintain good playback quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplayback qualityVSAvoidfunction module exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The speaker module is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position and orientation based on the device's operational state. The speaker can rotate between different angles to remain exposed whether the device is closed or open, ensuring consistent playback quality without being blocked by the upper body.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is divided into separate functional modules with independent movement capabilities. The speaker module is separated from the main body structure and can be independently positioned, allowing it to maintain optimal exposure regardless of the relative positions of the upper and lower bodies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the function module is fixed on the first body, then the structure is simple, but the function module cannot be exposed when the first body is closed to the second body

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction module exposureVSAvoidmodule structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The function module is designed with dynamic positioning capability through rotational joints and driving mechanisms. This allows the module to automatically adjust its position to remain exposed during different operational states without requiring complex external control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The function module autonomously adjusts its own position through integrated driving modules that respond to the device's operational state. The module self-regulates its exposure without requiring manual intervention or complex external control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the function module is pivoted to the first body and driven by a driving module, then the function module remains exposed under different states of use, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction module exposure under different statesVSAvoiddriving module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The function module employs dynamic rotational joints that allow smooth movement between different positions. The driving module uses simple rotational mechanisms rather than complex multi-axis actuators, achieving adaptability with minimal structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The driving module is designed to perform multiple functions: it not only positions the function module but also integrates with the device's existing hinge mechanisms and structural components, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This design ensures that the function module, such as a speaker or display, remains exposed and functional whether the device is closed or flipped open, maintaining good playback and display quality by adjusting its position to face the user effectively.

Implementation Method 1

the second magnetic member is attracted by the first magnetic member to cause the function module to stay at the original position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

the first magnetic member is away from the second magnetic member, and the second magnetic member is attracted by the third magnetic member to rotate the function module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS10466750B2Electronic device
Publication Date: 2019.11.05 COMPAL ELECTRONICS INC
  • US10466750B2 patent drawing
  • US10466750B2 patent drawing
  • US10466750B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device includes a first body, a second body, a function module and a driving module. The second body is pivoted to the first body. The function module is pivoted to the first body and located between the first body and the second body. The driving module is at least disposed at the first body and the function module. When the first body is closed to the second body, the function module is located at an original position relative to the second body, and the function module is exposed from the first body. When the first body is rotated in a first clock direction to a first angle relative to the second body, the function module is driven by the driving module so as to rotate in a second clock direction to a second angle relative to the second body, and the first angle is greater than the second angle.