Earbud Charging Case Hinge With Detent for Stable Lid Opening
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging cases for earbuds face issues with large size due to space-consuming latches and buttons, and bi-stable hinges can be jarring, causing the lid to impel open and eject earbuds, leading to loss or damage.
Innovation Solution
A charging case with a hinge that includes a pivotable lid biased closed by a detent mechanism using a cam and a biasing member, such as a double torsion spring or flat spring, providing stable positions and preventing impulsive opening, with a mechanical hard stop for the fully open position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate cases (headphone case, earbud case, charging case) are used to store different components, then each component is protected individually, but the overall device complexity increases and portability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate cases (headphone case, earbud case, charging case) into a single integrated case structure. The housing contains multiple compartments that can accommodate different audio device components simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate cases while maintaining individual component protection through dedicated compartments.
2Reliability
If multiple separate cases are used, then each component is protected, but the overall volume and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested case structure where smaller compartments (for earbuds and headphones) are positioned within or alongside the main charging case compartment. This nested arrangement allows multiple components to be stored in a compact, space-efficient manner, reducing the total volume required compared to separate cases while maintaining individual component protection.
3Ease of operation
If accessories are stored outside the case, then accessibility is improved, but the case structure becomes less integrated and protection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the internal space of the case into multiple segmented compartments, each designed to hold specific accessories (earbuds, headphones, charging cables). This segmentation allows accessories to be easily accessed from the exterior while maintaining integrated protection within the case structure, resolving the conflict between accessibility and integration.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A case for an electronic device. The case includes a lower housing having a cavity to receive the electronic device, and an electrical connector configured to couple to the electronic device. A lid is attached to the lower housing with a pivotable joint allowing the lid to rotate between a closed position where the lid is aligned over the cavity and an open position where the lid is angularly displaced allowing the electronic device to be removed from the cavity. The case also includes a hinge that provides the pivotable joint. The hinge is configured such that, when the lid is in the closed position, it is biased to remain closed via a detent, and, such that the lid has one or more stable positions between the fully open and fully closed positions.