Segmented Case Assembly for Portable Computing Device Containment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices, such as laptop-shaped computing devices with integrated stands and conventional cases, face challenges in ease of use for containment due to complex geometries and structural integration, leading to difficulties in secure and efficient engagement of display and keyboard assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A case assembly comprising a keyboard case structure, a display case structure, and a hinge case structure, with specific engagement edges and flaps that allow for detachable and snug fitting with the device's assemblies, ensuring secure containment while maintaining accessibility to essential features like media slots and touchpads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional cases with integrated stands are used, then device containment is provided, but ease of operation for containment is worsened due to complex geometries and structural integration
Solution Approach 1:
The case assembly is divided into three separate case structures (keyboard case structure, display case structure, and hinge case structure) that can be individually manufactured and assembled. Each case structure has simplified geometry that detachably engages with corresponding assemblies, avoiding the complexity of a fully integrated monolithic case while maintaining complete containment functionality.
2Ease of operation
If detachable engagement structures are used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of secure containment may be worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple engagement mechanisms are combined within the detachable case structures: engagement edges with corresponding recesses, engagement flaps with recessed areas, and aperture-based fastening systems. This multi-mechanism approach ensures secure containment through several simultaneous connection points while maintaining ease of operation through coordinated detachment of all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The case structures serve as intermediary components between the keyboard assembly, display assembly, and hinge assembly. These intermediaries provide standardized engagement interfaces that simplify the connection process while ensuring reliable containment through distributed engagement points across multiple assemblies.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If complete closure is achieved, then protection is improved, but accessibility to essential features may be worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The case structures are designed with differentiated local properties: certain regions provide complete closure and protection (enclosing the majority of the device), while specific localized areas maintain openings or cutouts that preserve accessibility to essential features such as media slots and touchpads. This allows simultaneous achievement of protection and accessibility through spatially varying case geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are involved with but are not limited to an apparatus including a keyboard case structure including side portions with walls extending therefrom, and being sized and shaped to detachably engage with a keyboard assembly; a display case structure including side portions with walls extending therefrom, and being sized and shaped to detachably engage with a display assembly; and a hinge case structure including one or more first engagement edges being sized and shaped to detachably engage with the keyboard case structure, and one or more second engagement edges being sized and shaped to detachably engage with the display case structure. In addition, other aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.