Collapsible Mobile Device Support with Angle-Locking Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices, such as laptops and tablets, are not ergonomically designed for use when the user is not seated, making it difficult to use the keyboard and view the display in non-seated positions like lying down.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible system comprising a base and a top that can be locked at various angles, with adjustable retaining mechanisms to stabilize the device, ensuring stability even when the device is used at steep angles perpendicular to the direction of gravity, allowing for use in various orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile device is used in non-seated positions (e.g., lying down), then the device can be used in various orientations, but the keyboard and display become difficult to use and see
Solution Approach 1:
The support system employs a dynamic, collapsible structure with multiple adjustable angles that can adapt to different usage scenarios. The top and base can be configured at various angles (at least 45 degrees, preferably at least 60 degrees from horizontal) to optimize display and keyboard accessibility for prone, seated, or other non-traditional positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a spatial dimension by elevating the mobile device off the surface using a structured support system. The device is positioned at an angle with the display oriented substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity, creating a three-dimensional usage configuration that improves accessibility.
2Reliability
If the support system is designed to lock at large angles (at least 45 degrees) from horizontal, then stability in non-seated positions is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into distinct segments: a base and a top connected by a collapsible mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the base provides a stable foundation while the top can be adjusted to various angles, achieving stability without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The collapsible connection mechanism allows the top to nest against or fold onto the base when not in use, creating a compact form factor. This nesting capability reduces the complexity of storing and transporting the support system while maintaining the ability to lock at stable angles during use.
3Reliability
If retaining mechanisms are added to stabilize the mobile device, then device stability is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support system incorporates retaining mechanisms that automatically engage with the mobile device when placed on the top surface. These mechanisms use the device's own weight and geometry to trigger engagement, reducing the need for additional controls or complex adjustment mechanisms while maintaining stable device retention.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for supporting a mobile device is described. The system includes a base and a top collapsibly coupled to the base. The top is configured to retain the mobile device and to lock at an angle with respect to the base. The angle has a vertex and is at least forty-five degrees and not more than one hundred degrees. The top and the base are configured such that a center of mass of a combination of the mobile device and the system is a nonzero distance along the base from the vertex of the angle and such that the combination is stable with respect to rotations around an axis including the vertex for the base being supported and oriented perpendicular to a direction of local gravity.