Bendable Multi-Area Accessory Device for Adjustable Cradling Angles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional accessory devices for electronic devices lack the ability to adjust the cradling angle conveniently, limiting their usability as both a stand cradle and typing cradle, and do not effectively bring the device into a user's field of vision.

Innovation Solution

An accessory device with bendable areas and a magnetic force generator that allows the cradling angle to be adjusted by moving engagement members, enabling the device to be used as a stand cradle and typing cradle while ensuring it remains within a convenient field of vision.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the accessory device uses a fixed cradling angle structure, then the device structure is simple, but the viewing convenience and field of vision are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveviewing convenienceVSAvoidcradling angle adjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The accessory device transitions from a fixed cradling angle structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The cradling angle adjustment mechanism allows the device to change its orientation and angle dynamically, enabling users to view the electronic device screen at multiple angles and positions for improved viewing convenience and field of vision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The accessory device is divided into multiple functional areas including a first area for mounting the electronic device, a second area for keyboard input, and a third area for additional support. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each area, providing flexible cradling angle configuration without requiring complex overall restructuring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the accessory device includes multiple functional areas for different uses, then the versatility increases, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-functionality as stand and typing cradleVSAvoidengagement member mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The accessory device integrates multiple functional areas that serve different purposes: the first area functions as a stand cradle for viewing, the second area provides keyboard support for typing, and the third area offers additional stabilization. This multi-functional design allows a single accessory device to replace multiple separate accessories, enhancing versatility while managing complexity through functional integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The accessory device combines the stand cradle function, keyboard support function, and typing angle adjustment function into a single integrated structure. The engagement member mechanism coordinates all functional areas simultaneously, allowing users to adjust the cradling angle while maintaining proper positioning for both stand and typing modes, thereby merging multiple functions into one unified system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If the accessory device allows angle adjustment for convenient viewing, then the viewing experience improves, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefield of vision adjustmentVSAvoidengagement member and magnetic force generator
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The accessory device replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with a magnetic force generator system. The engagement member interacts with the magnetic field to achieve angle adjustment and positioning without requiring traditional screws, springs, or complex mechanical locks. This substitution simplifies the overall structure while maintaining adjustable cradling angles for convenient viewing and typing positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 accessory device enhances the usability of electronic devices by allowing adjustable cradling angles, improving the user's viewing experience and increasing the device's utility as both a stand and typing cradle.

Implementation Method 1

an engagement member for generating a force that maintains engagement between the second and third areas, when the second and third areas face each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP2955604B1Accessory device
Publication Date: 2019.07.31 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP2955604B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2955604B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2955604B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An accessory device is provided. The accessory device includes a first area having a front surface for mounting a rear surface of an electronic device thereon and being bendable, a second area having a front surface for mounting a rear surface of an electronic device thereon, and a third area disposed to face the second area. The first, second, and third areas are used as a cradle according to bending of the first area.