Protective Case Handle and Adapter for Multi-Position Tablet Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing personal electronic device cases do not adequately address the need for easy carrying and versatile use, especially for children, as they lack effective handling and adaptable stand features that allow for convenient attachment to various objects and settings.

Innovation Solution

A protective case system comprising a handle and adapter that is removably attachable to the case, allowing for carrying and functioning as a multi-position stand, and can be affixed to seat headrest posts, ensuring accessibility and versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a protective case is designed with additional features for carrying and standing, then the usability and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective case is divided into separate functional modules: a base case for protection, a removable handle for carrying, and a detachable adapter for standing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping the overall system simple and modular, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter serves multiple functions: it acts as a stand when attached to the case, and can be detached for storage or alternative uses. The handle provides both carrying functionality and structural support. This multi-functionality increases versatility without proportionally increasing complexity, as each component performs its primary role efficiently.

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

2Ease of operation

If a handle is added to the protective case for easier carrying, then the ease of operation is improved, but the weight of the object increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of carryingVSAvoidweight
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is designed as a separate removable component rather than being integrated into the case structure. This allows users to attach the handle only when carrying is needed, adding minimal weight only during transport while maintaining case simplicity during storage or stationary use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The handle attachment mechanism allows dynamic configuration - the handle can be attached when carrying is needed and removed when not needed. This dynamic adaptability optimizes the weight-ease of operation trade-off by providing carrying assistance only when required, rather than permanently increasing the case weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If an adapter is added to function as a stand and attach to headrest posts, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter is designed as a separate detachable module that interfaces with both the case and headrest posts. This segmentation allows the adapter to provide multiple functions (standing and headrest attachment) through a single simple component rather than integrating multiple complex mechanisms into the case structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter acts as an intermediary component between the protective case and external surfaces (desk or headrest posts). It provides the attachment functionality without requiring modifications to the case itself, simplifying the overall design by using a dedicated interface component that handles the complexity of multiple attachment scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Ease of operation

If removable attachment mechanisms are used for the handle and adapter, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of attachment may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of attachmentVSAvoidattachment reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanisms are designed as simple snap-fit or friction-based connections that are easy to engage and disengage. While simpler than permanent attachments, these segmented connection points are strategically designed to provide sufficient holding force for normal use while allowing quick removal when needed, balancing ease of operation with adequate reliability for the intended portable application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11987183B2Protective case system for use with electronic device
Publication Date: 2024.05.21 OTTER PRODUCTS LLC
  • US11987183B2 patent drawing
  • US11987183B2 patent drawing
  • US11987183B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A protective case system for use with an electronic device includes a protective case, a handle, and an adapter. The protective case removably receives the electronic device and a display screen of the electronic device remains accessible when the electronic device is installed in the protective case. The handle extends outward from the protective case. The handle is configured for carrying the protective case and the installed electronic device. The adapter is configured to attach to the handle and be bendable by a user to a plurality of positions. The adapter is configured to function as a multi-position stand for the protective case and the installed electronic device. The adapter is further configured to removably affix the protective case and the installed electronic device to a seat.