Sensor-Based Housing Latch Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional notebook computers require an additional button press to unlock the detachable display housing, leading to inconvenient and potential inadvertent operations.
Innovation Solution
An electronic apparatus equipped with sensor units that automatically control a fastened mechanism between the housing components, using sensing signals to determine user intent and release the locking state without the need for a physical button.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a physical button is used to unlock the latches, then the locking mechanism can be released, but it requires an extra button pushing action from the user and may result in inadvertent operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-based unlocking system with an automated sensor-based system. The first sensor unit detects the user's approach (e.g., via proximity sensing), and the second sensor unit detects the pressing action on the display housing, automatically triggering the latch release mechanism without requiring a separate physical button press.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs the unlocking action automatically based on sensor detection. When the first sensor unit detects user proximity and the second sensor unit detects the pressing action, the control unit automatically activates the latch release mechanism, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for manual button operation.
2Productivity
If a physical button is used to release the latches, then the unlocking function is achieved, but it increases the number of operations required from the user
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of user intent through the first sensor unit before the actual unlocking action. By detecting user proximity and pressing actions in advance, the system prepares to automatically trigger the latch release, reducing the time required for the actual detachment operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated sensor-based system eliminates the need for manual button pressing, directly reducing the operational time required for detachment. The control unit processes sensor signals and automatically activates the latch release mechanism, significantly speeding up the detachment process compared to manual operation.
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
Enables easy detachment of housing components by automatically unlocking the mechanism when the user approaches, reducing the risk of inadvertent operation and enhancing user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The first sensor unit is coupled to the control unit, and senses whether an operating object is existed within a sensing range so as to send out a first sensing signal
Implementation Method 2
The second sensor unit is coupled to the control unit, and senses a motion state of the first housing so as to send out a second sensing signal to the control unit
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus and a controlling method thereof are provided. A fastened mechanism of the electronic apparatus is configured to secure a first housing and a second housing of the electronic apparatus. An operating object within a sensing range is sensed via a first sensor unit. A first sensing signal is sent to a control unit when the sensor unit sensed the operating object within the sensing range. A control signal is sent to the fastened mechanism for unlocking the fastened mechanism when the control unit receives the first sensing signal.