Corner-Strap Mobile Holder for Hands-Free Viewing Flexibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for using personal electronic devices hands-free often restrict the device's placement and visibility due to the need for holding or propping, limiting their usability in various environments.

Innovation Solution

A device holding apparatus with adjustable securing members and support straps that allow secure suspension of devices from fixtures or the user's body, enabling hands-free use without obstructing the display.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a device is held or propped up using traditional hands-free methods, then the device can be used without hands, but the device placement is restricted and visibility of the display is impeded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehands-free usabilityVSAvoiddevice placement flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The holding apparatus is divided into multiple independent securing members (first securing member with first and second securing member portions, second securing member with third and fourth securing member portions) that can independently engage with different corners of the device, allowing flexible configuration for various device sizes and shapes while maintaining hands-free operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus transitions from traditional two-dimensional planar holding (props and stands) to three-dimensional spatial suspension by engaging all four corners of the device with securing members arranged in a rectangular configuration, enabling the device to be held at various orientations and positions in space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If traditional holding methods are used, then hands-free operation is achieved, but the ability to see portions of the device such as the display screen is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehands-free operationVSAvoiddisplay visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of propping up the device from below (traditional method), the apparatus suspends the device from above using upper support straps, allowing the display to face upward or outward in optimal viewing positions while maintaining hands-free operation, thereby improving display visibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Adaptability or versatility

If securing members are made adjustable to accommodate various device sizes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice size accommodationVSAvoidapparatus structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The securing members are designed with universal adjustability features (movable connection points, adjustable loop sizes) that allow the same apparatus structure to accommodate multiple device sizes and types, achieving versatility without requiring multiple different apparatus designs

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

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus combines multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the securing members simultaneously provide device attachment, positioning, and support functions, while the support straps integrate both upper support and connection functions, reducing overall structural complexity despite enhanced versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11696632B2Holder systems for mobile devices
Publication Date: 2023.07.11 REVERCOMB LAURA LEE
  • US11696632B2 patent drawing
  • US11696632B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for holding a device. The system may include a first securing member and a second securing member respectively located at a first end and a second end of the device holding apparatus. The system may also include where each of the first securing member and the second securing member further includes a first securing member portion and a second securing member portion that define a loop configured to receive a respective corner of a device. The system may also include a bottom support strap connecting the first securing member and the second securing member. The system may also include a first upper support strap connected to the first securing member. Further, the system may include a second upper support strap connected to the second securing member.