Fixing Mechanism for Tablet Panel Disassembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for fixing touch panels on tablet computers are difficult to disassemble, often damaging the adhesive and leaving residue, which increases repair costs and hinders recycling.

Innovation Solution

A fixing mechanism featuring a combination of engaging, buckling, and wedging portions, along with a resilient component and actuating mechanism, allows for easy disassembly and reassembly of the panel module from the casing without damaging the panel, using a button to release constraints and facilitate rotation for separation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If adhesive is used to fix the touch panel on the casing, then the touch panel is stably fixed, but the disassembly process damages the adhesive and leaves residue on the touch panel

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing stabilityVSAvoiddisassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism is divided into separate components: a fixing structure with engaging portions and a panel module with corresponding engagement features. This segmentation allows the touch panel to be securely fixed during operation while enabling clean separation during disassembly, eliminating adhesive residue problems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing mechanism acts as an intermediary between the casing and the touch panel module. Instead of directly bonding the touch panel to the casing with adhesive, the fixing mechanism provides a reversible connection through engaging portions that allow both stable fixation and clean separation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Strength

If adhesive is used to fix the touch panel, then the fixing is strong, but the touch panel cannot be recycled and repair cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing strengthVSAvoidrecycling cost
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism is designed to be reusable and non-damaging to the touch panel. The engaging portions allow the panel module to be removed and reattached multiple times without degradation, enabling recycling and reducing repair costs compared to adhesive bonding which destroys the panel upon removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Ease of operation

If a simple fixing method is used, then the disassembly is easy, but the fixing stability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisassembly easeVSAvoidfixing stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism transitions between two dynamic states: a locked state where engaging portions securely hold the panel module in place, and an unlocked state where the panel can be easily removed. This dynamic design provides both strong fixation during use and easy disassembly when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 enables stable and efficient detachment and reattachment of the panel module, reducing manufacturing costs and improving product yield while maintaining panel integrity, replacing the need for adhesives and simplifying the assembly process.

Implementation Method 1

Two ends of the resilient component are respectively connected to the first latch and the base. The resilient component drives the second engaging portion to engage with the first engaging portion.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic potential energy storage and release: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS9063696B2Fixing mechanism and related electronic device
Publication Date: 2015.06.23 WISTRON CORP
  • US9063696B2 patent drawing
  • US9063696B2 patent drawing
  • US9063696B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fixing mechanism includes a first engaging portion, a base, a first latch and a resilient component. The first engaging portion is disposed on a frame, the base is disposed on a casing, and the first latch is slidably disposed on the base. The first latch includes a first body, a second engaging portion and an inclined structure. The second engaging portion is disposed on the first body to engage with the first engaging portion, so as to constrain a movement of the frame relative to the casing. The inclined structure is disposed on the first body. The first engaging portion can slide relative to the inclined structure, so as to move the frame away from the casing. Two ends of the resilient component are respectively connected to the first latch and the base. The resilient component drives the second engaging portion to engage with the first engaging portion.