Retractable Docking System for Thin IHS
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional docking systems are inadequate for thin or ultra-thin portable information handling systems (IHSs) as the alignment posts required for mating with thicker IHSs occupy valuable space, making it difficult to accommodate the necessary dimensions and components.
Innovation Solution
A retractable docking system with a chassis that includes a moveable IHS connector and alignment member securing device, which are resiliently biased to extend and secure when docked, allowing the IHS connector to mate with the docking connector without interfering with other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional docking systems with fixed alignment posts are used, then docking connectivity is achieved, but the alignment posts occupy valuable space in thin or ultra-thin portable IHSs
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment posts are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to extend only when needed for docking alignment. The posts can protrude from the chassis to guide docking connectors during insertion, then retract into the chassis body when not in use, thereby providing docking functionality only when required and minimizing space occupation during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment posts are nested within the chassis body, with the posts being able to extend outward from recessed positions in the chassis. This nesting arrangement allows the alignment posts to be stored within the available internal space of the thin chassis, eliminating the need for permanent external protrusions and preserving valuable space for other components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If alignment posts extend far into the portable IHS to accommodate docking connectors, then docking mating is enabled, but other portable IHS components (e.g., keyboard) are displaced
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment posts transition from a static, always-extended configuration to a dynamic system where posts can extend and retract. This allows the posts to provide their full length for docking mating only when a docking station is being connected, while retracting to minimize interference with keyboard and other components during normal portable IHS operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking system is segmented into movable alignment post elements that can be independently controlled to extend or retract. This segmentation allows precise control over when and how the alignment posts are deployed, enabling docking functionality to be separated from the permanent chassis structure and activated only when needed, thereby avoiding continuous displacement of other components.
3Length of moving object
If the IHS chassis is made thinner to improve portability, then portability is enhanced, but accommodation of docking system dimensions becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment posts are designed with movable bases that can shift position within the chassis, allowing the effective docking interface position to be adjusted. This dynamic positioning capability enables the docking system to accommodate varying thickness requirements while maintaining proper alignment and mating dimensions, as the posts can extend outward from different positions within the thin chassis structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking system transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration where alignment posts extend perpendicular to the chassis surface. This vertical dimension allows the docking interface to be formed without increasing the lateral footprint or requiring excessive chassis thickness, as the alignment posts protrude outward to provide the necessary mating dimensions while the bulk of the docking mechanism remains integrated within the thin chassis body.
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 the docking of thin or ultra-thin IHSs with both conventional and new docking stations without occupying space meant for other components, ensuring seamless connectivity and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an IHS connector electrically coupled to the processor, movably coupled to the IHC chassis adjacent the IHS connector opening, and resiliently biased into a retracted orientation
Implementation Method 2
an alignment member securing device moveably coupled to the IHS chassis adjacent the alignment member passageway and resiliently biased into a non-securing orientation
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system (IHS) docking system includes an IHS chassis defining an alignment member passageway and an IHS connector opening. An IHS connector is movably coupled to the IHS chassis adjacent the IHS connector opening and resiliently biased into a retracted orientation. An alignment member securing device is moveably coupled to the IHS chassis adjacent the alignment member passageway and resiliently biased into a non-securing orientation. At least one docking actuator is located in the alignment passageway and coupled to the IHS connector and alignment member securing device. When the IHS chassis is docked with a docking station including a docking connector and an alignment member, the alignment member engages the at least one docking actuator to move the IHS connector relative to the IHS chassis to mate with the docking connector, and move the alignment member securing device relative to the IHS chassis to engage the alignment member.