Rotating Hybrid Power Button for Multi-Function User Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Previous information handling systems lack user-friendly mechanisms for performing multiple functions, such as clearing CMOS or entering deep sleep mode, due to limited HCI devices and complex operation procedures, like holding the power button for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid power button with a rotating mechanism and inner button that allows users to easily switch between power operations and secondary functions by rotating and pressing, automatically returning to the initial position, enabling intuitive control of information handling systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single power button is used for multiple functions, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex operation procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The button mechanism transitions from a static single-position design to a dynamic multi-position rotating design. The button can rotate between at least two distinct positions, with each position activating different functions. This dynamic capability allows a single physical component to perform multiple operations, reducing the number of HCI devices needed while maintaining simple, intuitive operation through rotational movement rather than complex procedural steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The power button is designed as a universal control element that performs multiple functions including power on/off and CMOS clearing operations. By integrating these functions into a single button component, the system reduces the total number of HCI devices required. The button's multi-functionality is achieved through its ability to detect different positions and trigger corresponding operations, thereby simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining ease of use.
2Ease of operation
If multiple functions are integrated into a single button, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The button mechanism combines the power button and CMOS clearing button functions into a single integrated component. This merging eliminates the need for separate physical buttons, thereby reducing the number of components and simplifying the user interface. The combined button uses a unified actuation mechanism that responds to different positions or pressing patterns to trigger the respective functions, reducing overall device complexity while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single button is segmented into multiple functional positions or states, with each position corresponding to a specific function. The button's structure includes distinct positions (at least two) that can be detected by the system, allowing a single physical component to perform multiple operations. This segmentation approach enables multi-functionality without requiring multiple separate buttons, thereby improving ease of operation while keeping the mechanical structure relatively simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating mechanism is added to the power button, then adaptability improves by enabling multiple functions, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The button incorporates a rotating mechanism that enables dynamic switching between at least two distinct positions. This rotational movement provides adaptability by allowing the button to access different functions based on its position. The dynamic nature of the rotation simplifies the overall structure compared to having multiple separate buttons or complex switch mechanisms, as it uses a single degree of freedom (rotation) to achieve multiple functional states.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating button mechanism serves as a universal control element that can trigger multiple functions including power on/off and CMOS clearing. By designing the button to rotate between different positions, the system achieves versatility without adding significant complexity. Each position of the button corresponds to a specific function, allowing a single mechanical component to perform multiple operations that would otherwise require separate controls.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple function button for an information handling system includes an outer shell and an inner button. The outer shell includes multiple channels having first, second, third and fourth channels. The inner button is inserted within the outer shell. The inner button includes a tab and a contact component. The tab moves within the multiple channels. When the tab is within the first channel, the inner button is in a first position and contact component is positioned over a first contact of the information handling system. When the tab is within the third channel, the inner button is in a second position and the contact component is positioned over a second contact of the information handling system.