Sliding Module Integrating Members for Slim Portable Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional sliding modules for sliding-type portable communication devices are bulky due to the separate sliding plate, leading to increased size, thickness, and component count, which hinders slimness and increases manufacturing costs, and poses a risk of damage from interference and drops.

Innovation Solution

The sliding module integrates sliding members on both sides of the sliding housing, reducing overall thickness, component count, and improving assembly efficiency, while using metal and reinforced plastics to enhance rigidity and protect the large-size display unit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a separate sliding plate is used in the conventional sliding module, then the sliding function is achieved, but the size, thickness, and component count increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesliding functionVSAvoidoverall size and thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the sliding plate function into the sliding housing by integrally forming sliding members on both sides of the sliding housing. This eliminates the need for a separate sliding plate, thereby reducing the overall size and thickness of the communication device while maintaining the sliding function. The sliding housing itself becomes the sliding component through the integral sliding members.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sliding housing is given multiple functions: it serves as both the housing structure and the sliding component through the integrally formed sliding members. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated sliding plates, reducing component count and overall device thickness while preserving the sliding operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a separate sliding plate is used in the conventional sliding module, then the sliding function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesliding functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By combining the sliding plate function into the sliding housing through integral formation of sliding members, the patent reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This simplification of the component structure directly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the required sliding function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sliding members are integrally formed on both sides of the sliding housing, creating a segmented but unified structure. This approach allows for efficient manufacturing of the sliding housing as a single integrated component rather than assembling multiple separate parts, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If a separate sliding plate is used in the conventional sliding module, then the sliding function is achieved, but the device becomes more susceptible to damage from interference and drops

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesliding functionVSAvoiddamage resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the sliding plate function into the sliding housing, the patent creates a more integrated and structurally sound assembly. The sliding members are firmly attached to the sliding housing, reducing the risk of interference and damage during drops or accidental contact, while maintaining smooth sliding operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Area of stationary object

If the sliding module is positioned outside the large-size LCD module, then the LCD can be accommodated, but the thickness cannot be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveLCD module sizeVSAvoiddevice thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent repositions and reconfigures the sliding module to be located above the LCD module rather than outside it, utilizing the vertical space above the display. This spatial reorganization allows the device to accommodate a large-size LCD module while reducing the overall thickness by eliminating the need for a separate sliding plate structure below the display.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS8682404B2Sliding module for sliding type portable communication device

Publication Date: 2014.03.25 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A sliding module for a sliding-type portable communication device, in which sliding members are integrally formed on both sides of a sliding housing. The sliding module for a sliding-type portable communication device preferably includes a body housing and a sliding housing sliding while facing the body housing, and a sliding guide portion provided in the body housing. The sliding guide portion includes guide members integrally formed on both sides of the guide portion and sliding members integrally formed on both sides of the sliding housing to be slidably coupled with the guide members.