Elastomeric Hinge Hardshell Case for Device Impact Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional protective cases for handheld electronic devices often fail to provide adequate protection against impacts and may compromise operational features, as hard plastic shells do not offer sufficient shock resistance and can expose device components.
Innovation Solution
A protective case design featuring a combination of hardshell members and a flexible silicone hinge that articulates with the device, allowing for impact protection without obstructing operational features, with the silicone hinge being integrated into the hard plastic shells to absorb shocks and maintain a clean, decorative appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hard plastic shells are used for protective cases, then structural strength and protection are improved, but shock resistance and impact absorption deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The protective case combines hard plastic shell members with a flexible silicone hinge material to create a composite structure. The hard plastic provides structural strength and rigidity, while the flexible silicone material absorbs shocks and impacts, resolving the contradiction between structural strength and shock resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameter from purely rigid hard plastic to a combination of rigid hard plastic and flexible silicone. This parameter change allows the case to maintain structural integrity while simultaneously providing shock absorption capabilities.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If hard plastic shells are used for protective cases, then protection coverage is improved, but operational features accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible silicone hinge is strategically placed at the hinge area of the device, providing localized protection where needed while leaving other areas accessible. This local quality approach ensures operational features remain accessible while maintaining comprehensive protection coverage.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If flexible materials are used for protective cases, then shock absorption is improved, but structural strength and protection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The protective case uses a composite structure where hard plastic shell members provide structural strength and rigid protection, while the flexible silicone hinge material provides shock absorption. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between shock absorption and structural strength.
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
The solution provides enhanced protection against impacts by distributing shock through the hard plastic shells and flexible silicone, while maintaining device functionality and aesthetics, offering a more comprehensive safeguard for both the front and back surfaces of the device.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible hinge member permits articulation of the portable electronic device when the case is attached to the portable electronic device due to flexing of a flexible material that comprises the flexible hinge member
Data Source
AI summary
A case for protecting a portable electronic device includes a cushion member formed from a single piece of elastomeric material and having a first portion, a second portion, and a hinge portion connecting the first portion to the second portion permitting articulation of the installed portable electronic device. The case also includes a first rigid shell member removably attachable to the portable electronic device over the first portion of the cushion member, wherein the cushion member extends substantially between the first rigid shell member and the installed portable electronic device. The case also includes a second rigid shell member removably attachable to the portable electronic device over the second portion of the cushion member, wherein the cushion member extends substantially between the second rigid shell member and the installed portable electronic device.