Low-Profile Tablet Docking with Magnetic Alignment and 3D Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing docking solutions for portable point-of-sale terminals are cumbersome and detract from the aesthetics of the unit, making them awkward to use and difficult to integrate with the internal components of the device.

Innovation Solution

A docking device with directionally programmed magnets and 3D motion locking blades that guide and secure a computing device without interfering with its internal components, allowing for a low-profile and unobtrusive mounting system that provides tactile feedback and easy alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional docking solutions are used, then the computing device can be securely mounted, but the docking mechanism becomes cumbersome and detracts from the aesthetics of the unit

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure mountingVSAvoiddocking mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical docking components (screws, clips, large latches) with a magnetic field-based locking system. Magnets embedded in the mounting surface and corresponding magnetic elements in the computing device create secure attachment without visible mechanical hardware, eliminating cumbersome docking mechanisms while maintaining reliable mounting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the visible mechanical locking components from the docking system, leaving only essential functional elements. The magnetic field performs the locking function without requiring external mechanical structures, thereby simplifying the overall device design and improving aesthetics while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If traditional docking solutions are used, then the computing device can be mounted, but the mechanism becomes awkward to use and difficult to integrate with internal components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemounting securityVSAvoiddocking ease of use

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic field-based system eliminates the need for manual alignment and mechanical fastening operations. Users simply place the computing device on the mounting surface, and magnetic attraction automatically secures it, making the docking process intuitive and easy to operate without complex mechanical interactions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic docking system performs the alignment and securing functions automatically through magnetic field interaction. The magnets guide the computing device into the correct position and maintain secure attachment without requiring user intervention or complex operational steps, enabling self-aligning and self-securing functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Shape

If low-profile mounting is implemented, then the docking is unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing, but the locking mechanism must not interfere with internal components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprofile heightVSAvoidlocking effectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic field-based locking mechanism operates without requiring physical penetration or protruding mechanical components. Magnets embedded in the mounting surface create secure attachment through magnetic attraction, maintaining a low-profile design that does not interfere with internal components while ensuring reliable locking.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic field acts as an intermediary between the mounting surface and the computing device, transmitting locking forces without requiring direct mechanical contact or protruding elements. This allows the system to maintain a low-profile appearance while effectively securing the device through invisible magnetic fields.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution enables secure, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing docking of portable point-of-sale terminals, ensuring correct orientation and engagement without compromising the device's internal space, while allowing for tilting and swiveling for improved usability.

Implementation Method 1

directionally programmed magnets in both the docking device and the computing device are complimentary programmed to guide the computing device into place

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

locking blades that travel along a 3-dimensional (3D) path to engage the computing device with the docking device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11615045B2Low-profile tablet docking solution

Publication Date: 2023.03.28 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP

AI summary

Examples provided herein provide a docking device for a computing device. In one example, the docking device includes a magnet array to align the computing device with a mounting device on the docking device. The docking device includes a locking blade that inserts from the mounting device into the computing device in a 3-dimensional (3D) motion.