Rotatable Tablet Storage With Friction Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern portable data processing devices, such as tablet computers, face challenges when used in a horizontal position due to suboptimal viewing angles and the difficulty of precise operation, especially when rotated, which can lead to unwanted device movement during touchscreen interactions.
Innovation Solution
A storage device with a rotatable carrier mounted on a base unit, featuring a locking mechanism that allows adjustable angles and secure positioning, enabling easy rotation for user convenience while locking in place during operation to prevent unwanted movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If permanent magnets are used to hold the upper part in a rotating position, then the device can be held at various angles, but the magnets present resistance when adjusting the position and require excessive force to move
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the permanent magnets from the system and replaces them with a friction-based holding mechanism. The upper part is held in position by controlled friction between contact surfaces rather than magnetic attraction, eliminating the resistive force that made adjustment difficult while still maintaining the ability to hold various positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the magnetic holding system with a mechanical friction-based system. Instead of using magnetic fields to hold and release the upper part, the design uses friction between contact surfaces that can be easily overcome by manual adjustment, providing a simpler mechanical solution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tablet is placed on a rotating stand, then it can be rotated for multiple users, but the touchscreen swipe can cause unintentional rotation making precise operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking system where the upper part can be easily rotated when needed but automatically locks into stable positions during operation. The friction-based holding mechanism provides just enough resistance to prevent unintentional movement during touchscreen interaction while allowing deliberate rotation when users need to adjust the position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by designing a friction-based holding mechanism that counteracts unintended movements before they occur. The friction force is calibrated to prevent accidental rotation during normal touchscreen operation, while still allowing deliberate rotation when users intentionally adjust the position.
3Ease of operation
If the upper part is accidentally forced into position by excessive force, then rotation is achieved, but the set position changes unintentionally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses friction as a cushioning mechanism that absorbs accidental forces before they can cause unintended position changes. The friction-based holding provides a gradual resistance that prevents sudden jumps to different positions, cushioning against accidental excessive force while still allowing deliberate rotation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A storage device (1) for an object, in particular for a tablet computer, is described. The storage device (1) has a base unit (15) with a storage surface and a carrier (2) for storing the object, which is rotatably mounted on the base unit (15) about a rotation axis (D) extending transversely, preferably substantially perpendicularly, to the storage surface of the base unit. Furthermore, the storage device (1) has a locking device (30) with a locking element (5, 9) for locking the carrier (2) on the base unit (15) in at least one, preferably several, rotational positions and an actuating element (7) for actuating the locking element (5, 9).