Portable Device Case Accessory With Ball-and-Socket Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices (PEDs) are susceptible to damage due to their portability and lack configuration for easy use in multiple orientations, such as portrait and landscape views.
Innovation Solution
A case accessory for PEDs that encloses and protects the device, allowing it to be rotated and supported in multiple orientations, featuring a rotatable connector with a ball-and-socket joint for adjustable viewing angles and secure friction fit, and includes additional features like a protective display and storage compartments for accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a portable electronic device is made portable and configurable for multiple orientations, then ease of operation and versatility are improved, but the device becomes susceptible to damage from improper handling and orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The case incorporates cushioning materials and protective structures beforehand to absorb impacts and prevent damage when the device is dropped or handled improperly in various orientations. The case acts as a pre-prepared protective barrier that cushions the device from harmful forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The case serves as an intermediary between the device and the external environment, providing a protective interface that allows the device to be used in multiple orientations while shielding it from damage. The case meditates the interaction between the device and potential harmful factors.
2Reliability
If a case accessory is designed to protect the device, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity and structural requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The case is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the device from physical damage, provides structural support for various orientations, incorporates cushioning elements, and offers a protective interface. By combining these functions into a single case structure, the overall system complexity is reduced rather than increased.
Solution Approach 2:
The case merges protective elements, support structures, and orientation capabilities into a unified design. Rather than adding separate components for each function, the case integrates these features into a cohesive structure that simplifies the overall system while providing comprehensive protection.
3Ease of operation
If a rotatable connector with ball-and-socket joint is used for adjustable viewing angles, then ease of operation is improved, but friction fit security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The ball-and-socket joint allows the connector to change its orientation parameters freely while maintaining a secure friction fit through controlled contact surfaces. The spherical geometry enables rotational movement while the friction between the ball and socket surfaces maintains security during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball-and-socket joint uses spherical geometry to provide smooth rotational movement for adjustable viewing angles. The curved surfaces of the ball and socket enable easy rotation while the contact area between them generates sufficient friction to maintain security during operation.
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 solution provides enhanced protection and versatility for PEDs by allowing secure and adjustable viewing in various orientations, reducing damage risk and simplifying user interaction, while also reducing inventory needs for manufacturers by accommodating both portrait and landscape modes.
Implementation Method 1
secure friction fit
Data Source
AI summary
Case accessories for portable electronic devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, a case accessory may include a base configured to sit on a working surface, a support coupled to the base and configured to support a portable electronic device in an elevated position, a rotational mechanism coupled to the support configured to allow the holder to rotate in one or more directions relative to the support, and a holder coupled to the rotational mechanism and configured to secure the portable electronic device.