Stepped Carrier Layout for Compact Signal Transmission Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing signal transmission apparatuses occupy a large space in electronic devices, leading to wasted internal space and affecting the arrangement of other components.

Innovation Solution

A signal transmission apparatus with a carrier having a first thickness area and a second thickness area, where the first thickness area is greater than the second, allowing the signal reception and transmission module to be arranged on the first surface of the first thickness area and the connection module on the carrier, optimizing space usage by reducing the impact of other components on signal transmission or reception.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a signal transmission apparatus is designed with conventional structure, then it can perform signal transmission function, but it occupies large space in electronic devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace occupied by signal transmission apparatusVSAvoidadaptability to electronic device space
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The carrier transitions from a conventional planar structure to a three-dimensional structure with varying thickness. The first thickness area extends beyond the second thickness area in the thickness direction, creating a stepped configuration that utilizes vertical space rather than only horizontal plane, thereby reducing the footprint area while maintaining functional integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The signal transmission apparatus is nested within the electronic device by positioning the first thickness area of the carrier in the first gap between the display panel and housing, while the second thickness area extends into the second gap. This nested arrangement allows the apparatus to fit within existing spatial constraints of the electronic device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of stationary object

If the carrier thickness is uniform, then manufacturing is simple, but space utilization in electronic devices is inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilization of carrierVSAvoidcarrier structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The carrier is designed with non-uniform thickness distribution, where the first thickness area has a greater thickness than the second thickness area. This local variation in thickness allows different regions of the carrier to serve different functions: the thicker first thickness area accommodates the signal reception and transmission module requiring more space, while the thinner second thickness area optimizes space in regions where less volume is needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The carrier is segmented into distinct thickness areas (first thickness area and second thickness area) with different dimensional characteristics. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized independently for its specific function, improving overall space utilization while maintaining structural integrity through the connection between the areas

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240313819A1Signal transmission apparatus and electronic device
Publication Date: 2024.09.19 LENOVO (BEIJING) LTD
  • US20240313819A1 patent drawing
  • US20240313819A1 patent drawing
  • US20240313819A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A signal transmission apparatus includes a carrier and a signal reception and transmission assembly. The carrier includes a first thickness area and a second thickness area connected to the first thickness area. A thickness of the first thickness area is greater than a thickness of the second thickness area. A distance between a first surface of the first thickness area and a second surface of the second thickness area along a thickness direction of the carrier is greater than the thickness of the second thickness area. The first surface of the first thickness area and the second surface of the second thickness area are located on two surfaces of the carrier opposite to each other. The signal reception and transmission assembly include a reception and transmission module and a connection module. The reception and transmission module is communicatively connected to the connection module.