Collapsible support device for holding an object
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible support devices for planar objects lack a reliable mechanism to securely hold objects in an inclined position while being portable and easy to use.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible support device featuring a base portion with protrusions, an upper support panel with apertures and tabs, and an elastic band that allows the device to be easily folded and unfolded, enabling secure positioning of objects at various angles using a hinge mechanism and elastic retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a collapsible support device uses a hinge mechanism to enable folding between open and closed positions, then portability and ease of storage are improved, but the device lacks a reliable mechanism to securely hold objects in the inclined position
Solution Approach 1:
The support panel is divided into multiple segments that can be independently positioned at different angles relative to the base portion. Each segment can be locked at specific angles using the protrusion-aperture locking mechanism, allowing the device to maintain stable inclined positions while remaining collapsible for portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static fixed-structure support to a dynamic collapsible structure with multiple configurable positions. The hinge mechanism enables smooth transitions between folded and extended states, while the locking mechanism provides stable fixed positions during use, resolving the contradiction between portability and stability.
2Reliability
If the support panel is made rigid to ensure stability when holding objects, then object holding stability is improved, but the device cannot be folded into a compact configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The support panel is segmented into multiple rigid sections connected by hinges. Each segment maintains structural rigidity to support objects stably, while the segmented construction allows the entire assembly to be folded into a compact configuration for portability when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The support panel segments nest together when folded, with each rigid segment fitting within or against the others, creating a compact storage configuration that maintains the structural integrity needed for stable object support when deployed.
3Reliability
If the device includes multiple locking mechanisms to ensure secure positioning, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusion-aperture locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage when the support panel reaches a predetermined angle, eliminating the need for separate locking actions or complex control systems. The geometry of the protrusions and apertures ensures automatic alignment and locking, providing reliable positioning with minimal user intervention and reduced overall system complexity.
4Area of moving object
If the hinge is positioned at one edge to maximize support surface area, then the usable surface area is improved, but the device becomes top-heavy and difficult to balance
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge connection is supplemented with vertical positioning elements (protrusions and apertures) that extend in the vertical dimension. This allows the support panel to be securely positioned at optimal viewing angles while the base portion maintains sufficient surface area contact with the support surface, distributing weight more effectively and improving balance without reducing the horizontal support surface area.
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 secure, adjustable, and portable support for planar objects at inclined positions, ensuring stability and ease of use by allowing the device to be easily converted between open and closed configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic band may be configured to stretch over an upper surface of the upper support panel so as to be able to hold the object on the upper surface when the collapsible support device is in the at least one open position and to contract back into the groove when the collapsible support device is in the closed position
Implementation Method 2
A hinge connecting the base portion to the upper support panel may be disposed at one edge of the base portion and a first edge of the upper support panel
Implementation Method 3
The at least one protrusion may be configured to lock the collapsible support device in the closed position when the at least one protrusion extends through the at least one aperture
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible support device configured to support an object in an inclined position, may include a base portion and an upper support panel. A hinge connecting the base portion to the upper support panel may be disposed at one edge of the base portion and a first edge of the upper support panel. The collapsible support device may be configured to be in at least one open position such that the base portion and the upper support panel are at an angle relative to each other and to be in a closed position such that the upper support panel lays against the base portion. The collapsible support device may be used to support the object at an inclined position in the open position.