Stylus Clip System with Magnetic Release and Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable information handling systems face challenges in securely storing and charging active styluses, as external garages risk damage from applied forces and internal garaging restricts size and battery capacity.
Innovation Solution
A clip system removably couples the stylus to the information handling system housing, allowing separation under excess force to prevent damage and integrating a charging interface for power transfer, with an alarm triggered by unexpected separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the stylus is stored externally in a garage, then the stylus is accessible and can be charged, but the stylus or garage is at risk of breaking under external force
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary between the stylus and housing, providing secure attachment while allowing controlled separation under excessive force. The magnetic field acts as a mediator that holds the stylus in place during normal use but releases when force exceeds the magnetic holding strength, preventing damage to both the stylus and housing.
2Reliability
If the stylus is garaged internally within the housing, then the stylus is protected from damage, but the stylus size is restricted and less room is available for battery and processing resources
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is segmented with a dedicated stylus garage compartment that provides protection while maintaining access. The garage is designed as a separate section within the housing structure, allowing the stylus to be stored securely without compromising the overall size or battery capacity of the stylus itself.
3Reliability
If the stylus is coupled securely to the housing, then the stylus remains attached, but damage may occur to the housing under excess force
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling mechanism is designed with a predetermined release force threshold that cushions the housing from excessive force. When force exceeds this threshold, the magnetic coupling releases the stylus, preventing transmission of damaging forces to the housing structure. This prior cushioning mechanism protects the housing while maintaining secure attachment during normal use.
4Ease of operation
If the stylus is stored externally, then charging requires external routing of power interface, but internal garaging makes charging difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary that simultaneously provides mechanical attachment and electrical power transfer. The magnetic connector includes integrated contact points that enable charging current to flow from the housing to the stylus battery while the stylus is stored in the garage, eliminating the need for separate power routing.
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
The clip system securely attaches and detaches the stylus without damaging the housing, enables efficient charging, and alerts the user to unintended separation, enhancing user safety and device integrity.
Implementation Method 1
Some portable information handling systems have external garages that hold the stylus, such as a loop of material extending out of a cover that protects the information handling system. Portable information handling systems that lack a protective cover can instead couple a stylus to the housing with magnetic attraction.
Data Source
AI summary
An active stylus couples to an information handling system by a removable clip that inserts into a slot formed in the information handling system housing. Power to charge a battery of the active stylus passes from an interface internal to the information handling system, through the clip and to a charger in the active stylus. The active stylus clip releases the active stylus in the presence of excessive force to prevent damage to the information handling system and active stylus.