Zipper Modular Connection for Repairable Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic devices are complex to manufacture and assemble, leading to high repair risks and significant electronic waste due to non-repairable connections like glues and screws, resulting in damaged components during disassembly and increased e-waste.
Innovation Solution
A modular connection system using zipper components that allows for 100% modular and replaceable display panels, enabling easier repairability and reducing discarded portions by decoupling panels without damaging the entire device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If components are glued together or coupled via screws, then structural strength is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple independent connection points distributed across the panel edges. Each connection point can be independently engaged or disengaged, allowing selective separation of panels without affecting the entire structure. This segmentation enables repairability while maintaining overall structural integrity through the distributed connection architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from static permanent connections (glue, screws) to dynamic reversible connections. The modular connection device allows panels to be easily assembled and disassembled through simple user actions, providing flexibility for repair and maintenance while maintaining structural strength during operation.
2Ease of manufacture
If components are glued together, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system divides the panel assembly into separable modules with standardized connection interfaces. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing through modular assembly while enabling easy repair by allowing individual panel replacement without affecting other components.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular connection device serves multiple functions: it provides structural attachment during manufacturing, enables easy disassembly for repair, and allows for flexible configuration of panels. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and ease of repair.
3Ease of repair
If panels are decoupled for repair, then ease of repair is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system uses distributed connection points that can be independently engaged or disengaged. This allows panels to be separated for repair while maintaining structural stability in the remaining connected portions, as each connection point maintains its structural function when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is pre-configured with standardized connection interfaces and alignment features that ensure stable reassembly after repair. The preliminary design of the connection mechanism guarantees that when panels are reconnected, structural stability is restored without requiring complex alignment or adjustment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture for separable electronic devices are disclosed. A separable electronics device includes a first panel having a first zipper component, the first panel including a front housing, display cover glass, a display panel, display electronics, and a first panel-panel interface. The separable electronics device further includes a second panel having a second zipper component, the second panel including a back housing, and a second panel-panel interface, wherein the first panel and the second panel are physically coupled by a mechanical connection of the first zipper component and the second zipper component.