Elastomeric Card Holder for Levitating 360° Case Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for displaying graded collectible cards do not effectively showcase both the front and back of the card, and lack innovative and interesting presentation options.
Innovation Solution
An elastomeric card case holder integrated within an electromagnetic levitating system that magnetically levitates and rotates encased collectible cards, utilizing a plastic housing with an elastomeric structure featuring flexible and retention portions to securely display cards in a 360° rotating manner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional display methods are used for graded cards, then the display structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but both the front and back of the card cannot be visible simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The display device transitions from traditional flat 2D display to 3D spatial display by levitating the card case in mid-air. This dimensional change allows the card to be oriented vertically with both front and back faces visible to observers, solving the visibility limitation of conventional flat displays.
Solution Approach 2:
The display system incorporates dynamic rotation capability, allowing the levitated card case to rotate 360 degrees. This dynamic movement enables observers to view both sides of the card and enhances display versatility, transforming a static display into an interactive experience.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electromagnetic levitation is implemented to rotate and display cards 360°, then both sides of the card become visible and display becomes unique, but the system complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical display structures (mounts, frames, supports) with an electromagnetic levitation system. This substitution eliminates the need for physical contact points and complex mechanical retention mechanisms, achieving 360° rotation and dual-side visibility through magnetic fields rather than mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides levitation force to suspend the card case, generates rotational motion for 360° display, and maintains stable positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, managing system complexity.
3Reliability
If an elastomeric structure with multiple ribs is used to secure the encasement, then the encasement is securely retained without mechanical hardware, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses an elastomeric structure with flexible ribs instead of rigid mechanical fasteners. The elastomeric material deforms elastically to grip the card case, providing secure retention through friction and elastic recovery. This flexible approach eliminates the need for screws, clips, or other mechanical hardware, achieving reliable retention through material properties rather than complex assembly.
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
Provides a stable and unique display for encased collectible cards, allowing both sides to be visible while avoiding electrical interference and accommodating various card case sizes, ensuring secure levitation and rotation without mechanical retention solutions.
Implementation Method 1
magnet that is adapted for placement above an electromagnetic assembly for levitation
Implementation Method 2
lower portion is configured to house a magnet that is adapted for placement above an electromagnetic assembly for levitation
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods that involve a plastic housing having a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion is configured to house a magnet that is adapted for placement above an electromagnetic assembly for levitation. The upper portion extends at least partially above the lower portion and further includes a slot. An elastomeric structure is disposed along an interior perimeter of the slot and includes a first plurality of ribs and a second plurality of ribs. Each rib includes a flexible portion and a retention portion. The flexible portion of the first plurality of ribs and the flexible portion of the second plurality of ribs receive an encasement and align the encasement in the slot. The retention portion of the first plurality of ribs and the retention portion of the second plurality of ribs secure the encasement within the slot.