Symmetric Gate Structure for Rugged Electronic Device Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rugged electronic devices, such as notebook computers, require advanced waterproof and dustproof designs to function effectively in harsh environments, but existing gate structures often complicate user operation and increase production costs due to asymmetrical designs.
Innovation Solution
A gate structure comprising a first door-leaf, a second door-leaf, and a latch, with locking portions arranged along different axes to ensure secure closure and easy operation, allowing identical components to be used on both sides of the device, enhancing user experience and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If asymmetrical gate structures are used to achieve secure closure, then waterproof and dustproof protection is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry in the locking mechanism design where the latch has a specific L-shaped configuration with a locking protrusion and groove that engage in a particular orientation. The first door leaf has a locking groove positioned at its end, while the second door leaf has a locking protrusion that engages with this groove. This asymmetrical arrangement ensures secure waterproof and dustproof closure while maintaining manufacturability through standardized component production.
2Reliability
If asymmetrical gate structures are used to achieve secure closure, then waterproof and dustproof protection is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The gate structure is segmented into distinct functional components: first door leaf, second door leaf, and latch assembly. Each component is designed independently with specific locking features (locking grooves on the first door leaf, locking protrusions on the second door leaf). This segmentation allows for standardized mass production of individual parts while assembling them into a secure waterproof configuration, improving ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the primary locking mechanism through engagement of the locking protrusion and groove, maintains the sealed position of both door leaves, and ensures waterproof and dustproof protection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying manufacturing while achieving reliable protection.
3Reliability
If complex locking mechanisms are used to secure door leaves, then closure reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and sealing functions are merged into a single integrated latch mechanism. When the latch is engaged, the locking protrusion on the second door leaf simultaneously engages with the locking groove on the first door leaf, securing both door leaves in their closed positions. This unified mechanism provides reliable closure while requiring minimal user action to operate, improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic and a gate structure including a first door-leaf, a second door-leaf, and a latch are provided. The first door-leaf having three first locking portions is movably assembled to an entrance of an object. The second door-leaf having two second locking portions is movably disposed at the first door-leaf, such that the first door-leaf closes or opens the entrance. The latch having a third locking portion and a fourth locking portion is movably disposed on the first door-leaf and between the first and the second door-leaves. The first locking portions are located on a moving path of the third locking portion. The second door-leaf is locked to the object and the third locking portion is located at the middle one of the three first locking portions, the fourth locking portion is blocked with one second locking portion and the first door-leaf covers the entrance.