Rotating Fixer Connection Mechanism for Electronic Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional connection mechanisms for electronic devices, such as notebook or tablet computers, require time-consuming screw detachment and reattachment, compromising the integrity and aesthetics of the devices.

Innovation Solution

A connection mechanism comprising a first fixing member, a rotatable fixer with an elastic element and a second fixing member, where the fixer is prevented from rotating in one direction by the elastic element, allowing secure attachment without screws, and can be easily disassembled using a rod to separate the cover from the housing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If screws are used to fix the cover to the housing, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes time-consuming and the aesthetic appearance is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly and disassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The fixer is designed to rotate dynamically from a loose state to a locked state. During assembly, the fixer rotates along the first direction to engage the connection element. During disassembly, the elastic element allows the fixer to rotate along the opposite direction when force is applied, enabling quick release without tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic element acts as an intermediary between the fixer and the connection element. It provides the necessary elastic force to prevent the fixer from rotating in the wrong direction during normal use, while allowing controlled rotation in the opposite direction when disassembly is needed, thus mediating between secure locking and quick release.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If screws are used to fix the cover to the housing, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the aesthetic appearance and integrality of the device is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoiddevice integrality and aesthetics
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the visible screw heads from the exterior of the device. The connection mechanism is hidden within the structure, with the fixer rotating inside the connection element. Only small openings are needed on the cover for inserting the fixing members, maintaining a clean and integrated appearance while providing secure connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Ease of operation

If a rotatable fixer with elastic element is used instead of screws, then assembly and disassembly is quick and easy, but the connection mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly and disassembly easeVSAvoidconnection mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges multiple functions into the fixer component: it serves as both the rotating element for assembly/disassembly and the locking element through its interaction with the elastic element and connection element. The elastic element combines both the locking function (preventing rotation in one direction) and the release function (allowing rotation in the opposite direction when forced).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 mechanism allows for quick assembly and disassembly without compromising the integrity or beauty of the electronic device, eliminating the need for screws and simplifying the process of connecting and disconnecting the cover and housing.

Implementation Method 1

The elastic element is disposed on the first side of the first fixing member and is abutting the outer surface, to prevent the fixer from rotating along a direction opposite to the first direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2610699B1Electronic device and connection mechanism thereof
Publication Date: 2019.09.25 ACER INC
  • EP2610699B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2610699B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2610699B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

A connection mechanism is provided. The connection mechanism includes a first fixing member, a fixer, an elastic element, a second fixing member and a connection element. The first fixing member includes a first side and second side, wherein the first side is opposite to the second side. The fixer passes through the first fixing member and is pivotable relative to the first fixing member along the first direction, wherein the fixer has a head portion and an end portion. The head portion is located on the first side and has an outer surface, and the second portion protrudes from the second side. The elastic element is disposed on the first side of the first fixing member and is abutting the outer surface, to prevent the fixer from rotating along a direction opposite to the first direction. The connection element is disposed on the second fixing member and has a hollow structure.