Sliding-Hook Locking Device for One-Handed Tablet Docking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing docking devices for two-in-one notebook computers require users to operate them with both hands to install or disassemble the tablet computer, which hinders convenience and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A locking device comprising a base, a hook, a sliding member, a knob, and an actuating member, where the hook pivots between engaging and releasing positions, the sliding member slides relative to the base to disengage from the hook or drive it to the releasing position, and the knob and actuating member facilitate single-handed operation by allowing the hook to be easily moved between positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional locking mechanism is used in the docking device, then the connection is secure and stable, but the user must use both hands to install or disassemble the tablet computer, reducing convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static state to a dynamic state through the sliding member. When the sliding member moves along the guiding slot, it dynamically changes the position of the hook relative to the engagement hole, enabling easy transition between locked and unlocked states with single-handed operation
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding member acts as an intermediary between the user's manual operation and the hook's movement. By sliding the member along the guiding slot, the user indirectly controls the hook's position without directly manipulating the hook itself, simplifying the operation to a single linear motion
2Ease of operation
If the hook is designed to easily move between positions for single-handed operation, then the ease of operation improves, but the reliability of the locking connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding slot is pre-designed with specific geometric constraints that guide the sliding member through a predetermined path. This preliminary design ensures that when the sliding member reaches the end of its travel, the hook is automatically positioned correctly for reliable engagement or disengagement, eliminating the need for precise manual positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism operates through periodic cycles of sliding and locking. The sliding member moves along the guiding slot in a controlled periodic motion, transitioning the hook between engaged and disengaged states. Each cycle ensures complete and reliable positioning through the constrained motion path defined by the guiding slot
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device includes a base, a hook pivoted to the base to move between an engaging position and a releasing position, a sliding member slidably disposed at the base and locked to the base to maintain the hook at the releasing position, a knob pivoted to the base, and an actuating member slidably disposed at the base. The sliding member slides relative to the base to be disengaged from the hook or to drive the hook to be transported to the releasing position. The knob rotates relative to the base and blocks the sliding member from sliding or allows the sliding member to slide relative to the base. The actuating member receives a force to slide relative to the base and drives the sliding member to be disengaged from the base and moved and disengaged from the hook to allow the hook to be transported to the engaging position.