Bi-Stable Spring Stand for Electronic Enclosures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing enclosures for portable electronic devices lack efficient and easy-to-activate stand mechanisms that can be easily collapsed or stowed when not in use, requiring significant force and effort to activate and deactivate.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a bi-stable springing element with a flexible substrate, such as silicone-covered metal, that can be attached to the enclosure and switched between a straightened and curled state using minimal force, allowing the enclosure to be positioned upright or semi-upright by leaning against the spring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stand mechanism is integrated into the enclosure, then the device can be positioned upright for viewing, but the stand requires significant force and effort to activate and deactivate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a bi-stable spring mechanism that changes its physical state between two stable configurations (straight and curled) with minimal force input. The spring's elastic properties and geometric design create natural stable states, allowing the stand to transition between upright and collapsed positions using minimal activation force rather than continuous force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The bi-stable spring mechanism is designed to automatically maintain its position in either the upright or collapsed state without requiring external force or energy input. Once activated, the spring's inherent mechanical properties keep the stand in its selected configuration, eliminating the need for continuous user effort to maintain the stand position.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the stand is made rigid to provide stable support, then the device can be securely positioned upright, but the stand cannot be easily collapsed or stowed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a bi-stable spring that provides rigid, stable support in its activated (curled) state while automatically returning to a collapsed (straight) state when deactivated. The spring's dynamic mechanical properties allow it to function as a rigid support structure when needed while maintaining the ability to collapse easily, resolving the contradiction between stability and ease of collapse.
Solution Approach 2:
The bi-stable spring changes its structural configuration between two distinct states: a straight configuration for easy storage and a curled configuration for providing rigid upright support. This parameter change in the spring's geometric state allows the stand to transition between being easily collapsible and providing stable rigid support, depending on which stable state the spring is in.
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 easy activation and deactivation of the stand with minimal effort, providing a stable upright position for the device while allowing easy storage in a collapsed state, suitable for various electronic devices like smartphones and tablets.
Implementation Method 1
a bi-stable springing element with a flexible substrate, such as silicone-covered metal, that can be attached to the enclosure and switched between a straightened and curled state using minimal force
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates generally to stands and enclosures for an electronic device. The apparatus can include an enclosure or a housing for receiving an electronic device and protect the device from damage resulting from impact or exposure to liquids. The stand may include one or more bi-stable springs connected to the rear surface of the housing by an attachment feature, such as slides or an anchor. The bi-stable spring portion of the stand has a straight or inactive configuration and a curled activated configuration. When a user places pressure on a straightened bi-stable spring, the bi-stable spring curls outward away from the enclosure and can act as a stand for the electronic device. The stand may be removably or permanently affixed to the enclosure.