Portable Device Case Kickstand for Multi-Orientation Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cases for portable electronic devices lack a versatile and efficient kickstand mechanism that allows for multiple orientations and secure support, particularly when flipped or used in alternative configurations.
Innovation Solution
The case incorporates a kickstand arrangement with a first kickstand rotatable about a first axis and two auxiliary kickstands rotatable about transverse axes, allowing the case to support the device in multiple orientations, including a flipped position, by engaging the kickstands with the main kickstand and the rear wall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single kickstand is used in existing cases, then the structure is simple, but the case cannot support the device in multiple orientations including flipped positions
Solution Approach 1:
The kickstand mechanism is divided into multiple independent kickstands (first kickstand, second kickstand, third kickstand) that can be selectively deployed. Each kickstand operates independently about its own rotational axis, allowing the case to achieve multiple support orientations without requiring a single complex mechanism. This segmentation enables versatility while keeping individual components relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple kickstands are designed to serve universal support functions across different orientations. The first kickstand provides primary support, while the second and third kickstands provide auxiliary support that enables both normal and flipped orientations. This multi-functionality allows a single kickstand system to handle diverse support scenarios that would otherwise require different mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If auxiliary kickstands are added to enable flipped position support, then orientation versatility improves, but the kickstand mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second and third kickstands are positioned and configured to nest within or alongside the first kickstand structure. The auxiliary kickstands can be stowed in a compact arrangement when not in use, and they engage with the first kickstand or rear wall to provide support. This nesting approach allows multiple kickstands to coexist in a space-efficient manner, reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The second and third kickstands rotate about rotational axes that are transverse to the first kickstand's rotational axis. This dimensional change in rotation axes enables the auxiliary kickstands to provide support in directions that the first kickstand cannot achieve alone, specifically enabling flipped orientations. By adding rotational freedom in another dimension, the system gains versatility without requiring completely new support structures.
3Reliability
If multiple kickstands with transverse rotational axes are implemented, then support stability in multiple orientations improves, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second and third kickstands work in combination with the first kickstand and the rear wall to provide stable support. When the auxiliary kickstands are deployed, they engage with either the first kickstand or the rear wall, creating a combined support structure that distributes the device weight across multiple contact points. This merging of support elements enhances stability while keeping individual rotational mechanisms relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The first kickstand serves as an intermediary element that the second and third kickstands can engage with. Rather than requiring direct complex interactions between all components, the first kickstand mediates the support function by providing a structural element that the auxiliary kickstands can attach to or work alongside. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall mechanical relationships while maintaining stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A case for a portable electronic device includes a cavity defined by a plurality of sidewalls and a rear wall and configured to support the portable electronic device therein, and a kickstand arrangement coupled to the rear wall, the kickstand arrangement comprising a first kickstand rotatable about a first rotational axis between a stowed position and a support position and a second kickstand rotatable about a second rotational axis transverse to the first rotational axis, wherein the second kickstand is configured to rotate into an auxiliary support position in which the second kickstand extends between the rear wall and the first kickstand.