Universal Click Pad Mechanism with Segmented Spring Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information handling systems do not allow for the entire touchpad area to be physically clickable, limiting user input options.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a spring plate with first and second spring arms that transition from a resting position to a clicked position in response to force exerted on the touchpad holder, enabling the entire touchpad area to be clickable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If conventional touchpad design is used, then the structure is simple, but only part of the touchpad area is physically clickable
Solution Approach 1:
The touchpad mechanism is segmented into multiple independent spring arms (first spring arm, second spring arm, third spring arm) that can be independently configured. Each spring arm can be selectively enabled or disabled based on the desired clickable area, allowing progressive expansion from partial to full touchpad clickability without requiring complete redesign of the entire mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring plate structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the touchpad holder, enables clickable functionality across the entire touchpad area through multiple spring arms, and allows selective activation of different spring arms to create various clickable zone configurations. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by making a single mechanism adaptable to different clickable area requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If spring arms are added to enable full touchpad clickability, then the entire touchpad area becomes clickable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring arms are nested within the touchpad holder structure, with each spring arm integrated into the overall assembly. The first spring arm is positioned at a first location, the second spring arm at a second location, and the third spring arm at a third location, all nested within the same structural envelope. This nesting approach increases adaptability without proportionally increasing the device's external dimensions or overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring arms provide dynamic responsiveness to user input, allowing the touchpad to adapt to different input locations and forces. Each spring arm can independently respond to clicks, enabling versatile user input options while maintaining a relatively simple static structure. The dynamic behavior of the spring arms adds functionality without requiring complex control mechanisms.
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 allows for the entire touchpad area to be physically clickable, enhancing user input capabilities by enabling clicks on both the front and rear sides of the touchpad.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second spring arms may transition from a resting position to a clicked position
Implementation Method 2
the first and second spring arms may transition from a resting position to a clicked position in response to a force being exerted
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes a palm rest portion of a keyboard cover, a touchpad holder, and a spring plate. The spring plate includes a main frame in physical communication with the palm rest portion, and first and second spring arms in physical communication with the touchpad holder. In response to a force being exerted on any area of the touchpad holder, the first and second spring arms transition from a resting position to a clicked position.