Removable Support Attachment for Computing Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Computing devices, especially hybrid computers, lack a standardized method to securely attach and detach displays from support devices, limiting versatility and functionality in various environments.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an interface surface with attachment features, such as magnetic or mechanical interlocks, on both computing devices and removable support devices to enable secure, orientation-specific attachment and detachment, allowing for features like data communication and wireless charging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a friction hinge is used to connect display and keyboard, then the connection is secure, but the device cannot be disconnected or reconfigured

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereconfigurabilityVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into separable components (display and keyboard) that can be independently positioned and reconfigured. The friction hinge is replaced with separate attachment features on each component that can engage and disengage independently, allowing the device to transition between integrated and separated states while maintaining secure connections when attached.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system transitions from a fixed friction hinge connection to a dynamic system where the display and keyboard can be attached or detached at will. The attachment features enable the connection state to change based on user needs, providing adaptability while maintaining stability when connected through magnetic or mechanical engagement mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If no standardized attachment method is provided, then device design is flexible, but secure attachment to support devices cannot be guaranteed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidinterface standardization

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment features are designed with universal compatibility in mind, using standardized magnetic or mechanical interface elements that can work with various support devices. The same attachment feature design can be applied across different device configurations, providing secure attachment capability while reducing the need for device-specific custom interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Traditional mechanical fastening systems are replaced with magnetic attachment features that provide secure holding force through magnetic attraction. This substitution simplifies the attachment mechanism while maintaining reliability, as the magnetic force provides consistent holding power without requiring complex mechanical interlocks or user intervention to maintain the connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If magnetic attachment features are used, then attachment and detachment is easy, but attachment strength may be insufficient for heavy devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment easeVSAvoidattachment force

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system merges multiple attachment features (magnetic elements, mechanical interlocks, or both) to work together in a hybrid system. This combination provides both the ease of operation from magnetic attraction and the strength from mechanical engagement, allowing the device to benefit from both attachment mechanisms simultaneously rather than relying on either alone.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment features utilize composite construction combining materials with different properties - such as magnetic materials paired with mechanically strong materials - to achieve both ease of attachment and sufficient holding strength. The composite approach allows optimization of each material for its specific function while working together as an integrated attachment system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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

Enables secure, versatile attachment and detachment of computing devices to support devices, enhancing functionality and user experience by providing predetermined orientations for additional features like data communication and wireless charging.

Implementation Method 1

Incorporating an interface surface with attachment features, such as magnetic or mechanical interlocks

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11170924B2Computing devices, removable support devices, and methods of use

Publication Date: 2021.11.09 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC

AI summary

A computing device having an interface surface and one or more attachment features oriented on the interface surface is described. A removable support device with an interface surface and one or more attachment features oriented on the interface surface is described. A support system with a computing device and a removable support device is described. A method of using a support system is described.