Articulated Mobile Housing for Ergonomic Flex
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile electronic devices with larger displays are inflexible due to the rigid nature of the display layers, making them uncomfortable to carry and transport, especially in body-worn positions.
Innovation Solution
The development of mobile electronic devices with flexible displays and housings that can bend in multiple dimensions and return to a rest condition, utilizing articulated structures and deformable materials for enhanced ergonomics and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the display size is increased, then the display area is improved, but the flexibility of the device deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into multiple segments (first housing portion and second housing portion) that can move relative to each other, allowing the large display device to bend or flex without breaking the rigid display structure
Solution Approach 2:
The housing transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic structure with articulated joints that enable movement and flexibility, allowing the device to adapt to different carrying positions while maintaining display integrity
2Strength
If the housing is made rigid to protect the display, then the strength is improved, but the comfort for body-worn positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid housing is segmented into multiple portions connected by flexible joints, maintaining structural strength for protection while introducing flexibility for comfort in body-worn positions
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated structure with movable joints creates a flexible connection between housing portions, enabling the rigid housing to bend and conform to body contours for improved comfort
3Adaptability or versatility
If the housing is made flexible to improve comfort, then the adaptability is improved, but the strength and shatter resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is segmented into rigid portions that maintain shatter resistance, connected by flexible joints that provide the necessary flexibility without compromising the strength of the display-protecting housing sections
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the housing have different properties: the display-facing portions remain rigid for protection, while the connecting joints are flexible for comfort, creating localized flexibility without sacrificing overall structural strength
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
The flexible design provides ergonomic benefits, including comfort for the user's back and body, while also offering shatter-resistant qualities and resilience to impact damage.
Implementation Method 1
the housing is further constructed of a deformable material... configured and adapted to be flexible or bendable... returning to a rest condition responsive to the cessation of the applied force
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for use with a mobile electronic device comprising a housing having articulated structures on one or more of the housing side walls, the articulated structures including at least two segments forming an engagement which enables pivotal motion upon the application of a force on the housing thus enabling the housing to flex responsively.