SMM Wire Locking Apparatus Equilibrium Force Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid computing devices face challenges in achieving a robust yet energy-efficient connection mechanism that balances strength with low energy consumption, affecting battery life and operating temperature.
Innovation Solution
The use of shape memory material (SMM) wires and return mechanisms, including a second SMM wire that applies force only when energized, allows for a locking apparatus that transitions between locked and unlocked positions with minimal energy consumption, utilizing contraction and return forces to maintain equilibrium without continuous energy input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional connection mechanisms are used to connect the screen to input devices, then the connection strength is improved, but the energy consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one that can adapt between locked and unlocked states. The SMM wire allows the connection to be actively controlled, enabling the system to switch between strong mechanical coupling (locked) and disengaged state (unlocked), thereby reducing energy consumption when full connection strength is not needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The SMM wire changes its physical parameters (length, force output) in response to temperature changes. By controlling the temperature of the SMM wire, the system can adjust the connection strength and force characteristics, enabling robust connection when needed while allowing for low-energy states when the full connection strength is not required.
2Strength
If conventional connection mechanisms are used to connect the screen to input devices, then the connection strength is improved, but the operating temperature increases
Solution Approach 1:
The SMM wire utilizes temperature as a control parameter rather than temperature being solely a byproduct. By deliberately controlling temperature changes, the system can activate the SMM wire to provide strong connection forces when needed, while allowing the wire to return to ambient temperature states when full connection strength is not required, thereby managing operating temperature.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical locking mechanisms (springs, motors, solenoids) with an SMM-based system. This substitution eliminates the need for continuous mechanical force generation, reducing heat generation from motor operation and friction, while still providing robust mechanical connection when activated.
3Volume of moving object
If a robust connection mechanism with small dimensions is used, then the form factor is reduced, but the force output may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The SMM wire's force output is controlled through temperature parameter changes rather than relying solely on its physical dimensions. A thin SMM wire can generate substantial force when activated by temperature change, enabling small-dimensional actuators to produce sufficient locking force that would be difficult to achieve with conventional small motors or springs.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of shape memory material represents a composite approach combining metallic properties with phase-change characteristics. This material property allows thin wires to exhibit high force density when activated, resolving the contradiction between small dimensions and sufficient force output.
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 provides a robust yet energy-efficient locking mechanism that maintains a smaller, lighter form factor for hybrid computing devices by optimizing force application and reducing energy consumption, allowing for efficient movement between locked and unlocked positions.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator SMM wire has a first state and a second state and is movable between the first state and the second state by the actuator. The first state has a first length and the second state has a second length that is shorter than the first length. Moving the actuator SMM wire from the first state to the second state applies a contraction force along a longitudinal direction of the actuator SMM wire.
Implementation Method 2
The return mechanism includes a return SMM wire has a first state and a second state and is movable between the first state and the second state by the actuator. The first state has a first length and the second state has a second length that is shorter than the first length. Moving the return SMM wire from the first state to the second state applies a return force along a longitudinal direction of the return SMM wire.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for locking an electronic device includes an actuator, a return mechanism, and an arm. The actuator includes an actuator SMM wire that is configured to apply a contraction force. The return mechanism includes a return SMM wire that is configured to apply a return force opposite the contraction force. The arm is movable toward an unlocked position by the actuator and movable toward a locked position by the return force. The arm has at least one equilibrium position with less than 1 Newton of force on the arm from the actuator and less than 1 Newton of force on the arm from the return mechanism.