Post-Style Latch for Electronic Device Bezel Attachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Hook-style latch designs in electronic devices are prone to catching foreign objects, leading to potential damage and consume excessive space, necessitating a more secure and space-efficient locking mechanism.

Innovation Solution

A locking system featuring posts extending from the display member that insert into corresponding openings on the base member, with a latch mechanism using slider arms and biasing mechanisms to securely fasten the display member to the base member, reducing the likelihood of foreign objects catching and eliminating the need for additional attachment mechanisms for the bezel.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If hook-style latch designs are used, then the locking mechanism can engage with the base member, but the latch is susceptible to catching foreign objects such as clothing or jewelry

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism reliabilityVSAvoidforeign object entanglement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional hook-style latch design by using a post-style latch that protrudes outward from the display member rather than a hook that catches inward. This inversion eliminates the catching surface that would entangle foreign objects like clothing or jewelry, while still providing effective engagement with the base member through corresponding openings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If hook-style latch designs are used, then the locking function is provided, but excessive space is consumed within the electronic device

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidspace consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the geometric parameters of the latch mechanism from a hook-style design with larger engagement surfaces to a post-style design with minimal protrusion. This parameter change reduces the volume occupied by the latch while maintaining the locking function through precise engagement of the post with the base member opening.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Strength

If additional attachment mechanisms are added for the bezel, then the bezel can be securely attached, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebezel attachment securityVSAvoidattachment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the latch mechanism universal by designing it to simultaneously perform two functions: securing the display member to the base member and attaching the bezel. The same post and opening structure that provides the locking function also serves as the attachment mechanism for the bezel, eliminating the need for separate attachment components and reducing overall device 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

The solution provides a secure and space-efficient locking mechanism that minimizes the risk of damage from foreign objects and integrates bezel attachment, ensuring reliable operation and reduced space consumption.

Implementation Method 1

a biasing mechanism disposed on the latch and operable to urge the post toward the opening

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7609514B2Electronic device locking system
Publication Date: 2009.10.27 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US7609514B2 patent drawing
  • US7609514B2 patent drawing
  • US7609514B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device locking system, comprising a display member coupled to a base member to enable variable positioning of the display member relative to the base member and a post engagable with a latch to secure the display member in a fixed position relative to the base member.