Single-Hand Detachment Lock Mechanism for Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices require the use of both hands to detach a first unit from a second unit, which can be inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A lock mechanism is introduced that includes an operation member, an engagement part, and a drive mechanism, allowing the engagement part to be disengaged with a single hand by moving the operation member to a second position, enabling the detachment of the first unit from the second unit without needing both hands simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple attachment structure is used between the first unit and second unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because both hands are required for detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment structure is segmented into independent functional components: operation member (420) for user input, drive mechanism (430) for power transmission, moving member (433) for engagement control, and urging members (470, 434) for force application. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling single-handed operation while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The urging members (spring 470 and spring 434) are configured to automatically apply force to the operation member and moving member, respectively. When the operation member is actuated, the stored elastic energy in the urging members automatically drives the engagement part to disengage from the engaging target part, eliminating the need for continuous manual force and enabling easy single-handed detachment.
2Ease of operation
If a lock mechanism is added to enable single-handed detachment, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism components are merged with the existing attachment structure. The operation member is integrated into the housing, the drive mechanism connects the operation member to the engagement part, and the urging members are positioned within the available space. This merging approach allows the lock mechanism to function as part of the overall attachment system rather than as a separate, complex addition.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving member (433) acts as an intermediary between the operation member (420) and the engagement part (440). It translates the linear movement of the operation member into the rotational movement required for the engagement part to disengage from the engaging target part (130), simplifying the mechanical linkage while maintaining effective lock/unlock functionality.
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
This solution allows for the detachment of the first unit from the second unit using only one hand, enhancing user convenience and simplifying the detachment process.
Implementation Method 1
a first urging member that urges the operation member to move to the first position; and a second urging member that urges the moving member to move to the first moving position
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a first unit having an engaging target part and a second unit having a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism includes an operation member movable between a first position and a second position, an engagement part, and a drive mechanism that drives the engagement part. The drive mechanism includes a moving member causing the engagement part to be engaged with the engaging target part when the moving member is located at a first moving position and causing the engagement part to be disengaged from the engaging target part when the moving member is located at the second moving position. The lock mechanism has a holding mechanism holds the moving member at the second moving position when the operation member is moved to the second position, and releases of the moving member held at the second moving position when the first unit is attached to the second unit.