Wearable Computing Device Modular Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional assembly techniques for portable computing devices do not allow for pre-testing of assembled components, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for scrapping or disassembling devices to identify and correct defects, and there is a need for improved component density and assembly methods to reduce thickness and enhance aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A modular approach with a seamless housing and pre-tested device modules, including a frame, device module with movable function assemblies, and a user interface module, allowing for independent testing and easy replacement of defective components, along with innovative mounting techniques like 'book' mounting and the use of integrated flex connectors for efficient component alignment and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional assembly techniques are used to place operational components within enclosure sections at a time, then assembly process is simplified, but testing capability is lost and defect correction becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate enclosure sections that can be assembled and tested independently. Each section containing operational components can be pre-tested before final assembly, allowing defect identification at the component level rather than requiring complete device disassembly for troubleshooting.
2Length of moving object
If components are assembled tightly to reduce device thickness, then aesthetic appeal and portability improve, but assembly precision requirements increase and testing access becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Enclosure sections are designed to nest within each other with precise mating features. The first enclosure section contains operational components that fit into the second enclosure section, creating a compact layered structure. This nesting approach achieves minimal device thickness while maintaining precise component positioning through the hierarchical arrangement.
3Productivity
If complete device assembly is performed before testing, then assembly workflow is streamlined, but defect identification requires complete disassembly reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
Enclosure sections and their contained operational components are assembled and tested as separate units before being integrated into the complete device. This preliminary assembly and testing of subsections allows defects to be identified and corrected in isolated components, preventing the need to disassemble the entire device for troubleshooting and reducing overall correction time.
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld computing device is disclosed. The handheld computing device includes a seamless housing formed from an extruded metal tube. The extruded tube includes open ends and internal rails which serve as a guide for slidably assembling an operational assembly through the open ends of the extruded tube, a reference surface for positioning the operational assembly relative to an access opening in the seamless housing, and a support structure for supporting the operational assembly during use.