Shape-Memory Polymer Attachment for Screwless Device Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly and disassembly of information handling devices, such as computers and smartphones, are challenging due to the large number of screws and related devices required, making the process cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing shape-memory polymers with different temperature profiles and shapes that secure and release structures, allowing for easy attachment and detachment by changing temperature ranges, eliminating the need for screws and adhesives during reassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screws and related devices are used to assemble information handling devices, then the structures can be securely attached, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes difficult and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical screw-based fastening system with a polymer-based attachment system that uses temperature-dependent shape memory effects. The polymer transitions between attached and detached states based on temperature changes, eliminating the need for mechanical fasteners and simplifying assembly and disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in polymer physical parameters (shape and rigidity) as a function of temperature. By controlling temperature, the polymer transitions between a first shape that attaches to the first structure and a second shape that releases from it, enabling easy assembly and disassembly without mechanical fasteners.
2Reliability
If multiple screws and fastening devices are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the number of parts and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening functions into a single polymer component. The polymer simultaneously provides attachment, release, and securing functions through its temperature-dependent shape memory behavior, eliminating the need for multiple separate screws and fastening devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The polymer serves multiple functions: it acts as both the attaching mechanism and the securing mechanism, and can transition between attached and detached states. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed while maintaining reliable attachment.
3Strength
If traditional fastening methods are used, then structures remain securely attached, but disassembly and reassembly become time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic temperature changes to control the attachment and disassembly cycles. By applying temperature variations, the polymer repeatedly transitions between its first and second shapes, enabling quick and repeated assembly and disassembly operations without time-consuming mechanical fastening or unfastening.
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 efficient and easy assembly and disassembly of devices by using temperature-controlled polymers that securely attach and release structures, simplifying the process and reducing the complexity of reassembly without the need for screws or adhesives.
Implementation Method 1
A first polymer coupled to the first structure. In various embodiments, the first polymer has a first temperature profile and a first shape. A second polymer coupled to the second structure. In certain embodiments, the second polymer has a second temperature profile and a second shape.
Implementation Method 2
the first temperature profile has a different shrinkage ratio than the second temperature profile
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for attaching structures. One system includes: a device having a first structure attached to a second structure; a first polymer coupled to the first structure, wherein the first polymer has a first temperature profile and a first shape; and a second polymer coupled to the second structure. The second polymer has a second temperature profile and a second shape. The second shape interlocks the first shape. The first polymer and the second polymer secure the first structure to the second structure in response to the first polymer and the second polymer being in a first temperature range. The first polymer and the second polymer release the first structure from the second structure in response to the first polymer and the second polymer being in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range.