Clipboard Case with Hinged Cover and Strap
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable computing devices and clipboards are typically used as separate items, forcing users to choose between them, as there is no convenient way to use both simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A case and attachment mechanism for portable computing devices that securely attaches to a clipboard, allowing the device to be used while protecting it from damage and enabling interaction with both the device and documents, with features like a flap for easy device insertion/removal, a strap for propping up the device, and a hinged cover for access to controls and sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If portable computing device and clipboard are used as separate items, then each item can be used independently, but user cannot use both simultaneously and must choose one or the other
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the portable computing device and clipboard into a single integrated system. The case containing the computing device is attached to the clipboard via attachment mechanisms (magnetic, mechanical, or adhesive), creating a unified assembly that allows simultaneous access to both the device and clipboard functionality without requiring separate handling of two independent items.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system serves multiple functions: the clipboard provides document holding and writing surfaces, while the attached case-protected computing device provides digital computing capabilities. The attachment mechanism itself serves as a universal connector that allows the system to function as either a standalone clipboard, a standalone device case, or a combined system depending on user needs.
2Ease of operation
If computing device is exposed for interaction, then user can access device controls and display, but device is vulnerable to shock and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The case design incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to transition between protective and accessible states. The case can be opened or adjusted to expose the device for interaction, then closed to provide protection. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt between protecting the device and enabling ease of operation based on immediate user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The case acts as an intermediary between the computing device and the external environment. It provides a protective barrier that shields the device from shock and damage while still allowing controlled access to the device through openings, flaps, or removable sections. The case mediates between the need for protection and the need for operational access.
3Reliability
If case is designed to protect device, then device is shielded from damage, but access to device controls and sensors is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The case is designed with differentiated local properties: most of the case provides robust protection, while specific localized areas feature openings, cutouts, or flexible sections that provide access to device controls, buttons, and sensors. This allows the case to maintain overall protective function while enabling necessary operational access at specific locations without compromising device reliability.
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 convenient, protected, and efficient use of both portable computing devices and clipboards as a single system, allowing users to interact with both the device and documents without having to choose between them, while providing protection against shocks and damage.
Implementation Method 1
The case comprises a backside having affixed thereto an attachment material such as one part of a two-part fastener (e.g., a two part hook-and-loop fabric fastener such as Velcro TM or other suitable mechanical fasteners) that securely interfaces to the other part of the fastener affixed to the clipboard
Data Source
AI summary
An auxiliary board for a clipboard system. The auxiliary board comprises a first auxiliary face and a second auxiliary face, a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge, a second side edge, and a clipping apparatus affixed near the top edge of the second auxiliary face, an auxiliary board clipping apparatus proximate the top edge and which enables the auxiliary board to pivotally attach to the clipboard, a mating supplemental attachment apparatus on the first auxiliary face which enables attachment of the auxiliary board to the clipboard, and an attachment mechanism on the second auxiliary face that enables attachment of a case for a computing device to the second auxiliary face. An auxiliary board clipping apparatus is located proximate the top edge and which enables the auxiliary board to pivotally attach to the clipboard and pivot upward for a different view of the computing device.