Rotary Latch Mechanism for Electronic Device Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information processing devices with lock mechanisms have complex structures and a large number of parts, which complicates the locking mechanism and reduces the strength and solidity of the components.
Innovation Solution
A simplified lock mechanism with a reduced number of parts, featuring a latch on the second unit that is rotatable between two positions, with an engagement projection on the first unit and an urging member to ensure secure locking, while an inclined part on the latch prevents breakage by rotating it back to the non-engaged position when the units are closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional lock mechanism with multiple springs, lock pawls, and a lock case is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking components (springs, lock pawls, lock case) into a single integrated latch member. The latch member includes an engagement portion that directly engages the engagement projection, eliminating the need for separate lock pawls and case structures. This merging of functions into one component achieves the locking function while dramatically simplifying the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components from the conventional lock mechanism. By removing the lock case and multiple springs, and retaining only the essential latch member with its engagement portion, the design achieves locking functionality with minimal parts. The urging member is simplified to a single elastic element rather than multiple springs.
2Reliability
If a conventional lock mechanism with many parts is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the strength of individual parts is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple small components into a single latch member, the patent creates a stronger, more solid structure. The integrated design allows for better material distribution and structural integrity, as the latch member can be optimized as a single piece rather than being fragmented into multiple weaker components that must be assembled and connected.
3Device complexity
If a latch without an inclined part is used, then the structure is simpler, but the latch cannot be automatically rotated back to the non-engaged position
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined part on the latch works in conjunction with the engagement projection to automatically rotate the latch from the engaged position back to the non-engaged position. When the first unit is pulled away from the second unit, the engagement projection slides along the inclined surface, generating a rotational moment that automatically returns the latch to its initial position without requiring external actuation or additional mechanisms.
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 results in a stronger and more solid structure with fewer parts, enhancing the locking mechanism's reliability and preventing breakage, while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
an urging member that urges the latch to be positioned at the second rotational position
Implementation Method 2
The inclined part is inclined so as to rotate the latch toward the first rotational position when the engagement projection abuts on the inclined part
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a first unit, a second unit, and a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism includes: an engagement projection provided on a third side surface of the first unit; a latch provided on a fourth side surface of the second unit, the latch being rotatable around a rotation axis provided perpendicular to the fourth side surface between a first rotational position where the latch does not engage with the engagement projection and a second rotational position where the latch is engageable with the engagement projection, and an urging member that urges the latch to be positioned at the second rotational position. The latch has an inclined part. When the latch is located at the second rotational position and the first unit is changed to a closed state from a state where the first unit is not closed, the inclined part abuts on the engagement projection during the change.