Angled Finger Grip for One-Handed Smartphone Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Handheld devices are difficult to operate with one hand, especially for larger devices or those with non-uniform shapes and sizes, which limits user convenience and accessibility, particularly for users with smaller hands.

Innovation Solution

A finger grip with angled finger slots and a raised area for support, attachable to handheld devices using adhesive, magnetic, or hook-and-loop attachments, allowing for comfortable one-handed operation and accommodating various hand sizes, with optional orientation for right or left-handed use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If handheld devices are made larger to provide more functionality, then computing power and functionality are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in holding and operating with one hand

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomputing powerVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the handheld device into two functional parts: the device itself and a separate grip accessory. The grip is designed with finger slots that segment the holding function from the operating function, allowing one hand to securely hold the device while the other hand operates the touchscreen without interference.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The grip acts as an intermediary between the user's hand and the handheld device. It provides a secure attachment point that mediates the connection, allowing the device to be held firmly while keeping the operating hand free to interact with the touchscreen interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If handheld devices have non-uniform shapes and sizes to provide variety, then adaptability deteriorates, but device diversity is improved

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidshape uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The grip is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate various handheld device shapes and sizes. The attachment mechanism can be applied to different device form factors, and the finger slots are configured to adapt to different hand sizes, making the same grip design suitable for multiple device types and user demographics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Power

If larger handheld devices are provided, then functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates for users with smaller hands

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention separates the holding function (performed by one hand on the grip) from the operating function (performed by the other hand on the touchscreen). This segmentation allows users with smaller hands to securely hold large devices while still being able to operate the touchscreen with their free hand.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The grip serves as an intermediary that enables users with smaller hands to access and securely hold larger devices. By providing a dedicated holding position that requires minimal hand size, the grip mediates between the device's large form factor and the user's smaller hand dimensions.

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

Enables convenient and comfortable one-handed operation of handheld devices, including larger ones, by providing a secure grip and thumb reach on the touch screen, while allowing for natural stand functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Implementation Method 1

The back of the finger grip comprises an attachment for attaching the finger grip to the back of the handheld device, the attachment being one or more of: an adhesive attachment, a glue attachment, a magnetic attachment, and a hook-and-loop attachment.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 3

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHook-and-loop fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS11730256B2Finger grip

Publication Date: 2023.08.22 DGIP LLC

AI summary

A finger grip is attachable to a handheld device for assisting a user in operating the handheld device. The finger grip includes one or more finger slots, where each finger slot includes an edge and is configured to accommodate one or more lower fingers of a hand of a user, and where the edge is configured to provide a rest to the lower finger accommodated by the respective finger slot. The finger grip further includes a back for attaching the finger grip to a back of the handheld device, allowing a thumb of the hand to have a reach on a range of the front of the handheld device when the lower fingers are accommodated by the finger slots in a position. The finger grip may further include a raised area configured for providing support to the hand.