Flexible Cover Sliding Mechanism for Foldable Device Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable mobile devices face impaired functionality in a closed configuration due to protective covers blocking light and signals from reaching internal components, preventing unencumbered access and operation.
Innovation Solution
A flexible cover that slides from one position to another on the foldable body, providing access to internal components when the device is in a folded configuration, allowing for unobstructed signal reception and transmission by displacing to expose the necessary areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a flexible cover is added to protect the folded exterior surface, then device protection from exterior forces and damage is improved, but light and signals are blocked from reaching device circuitry, impairing component functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cover is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to transition between covering and exposed states. The cover can slide or peel back to expose components like cameras and sensors when needed, while returning to cover the exterior surface for protection when not in use, thus resolving the contradiction between protection and functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible cover is divided into multiple sections or layers, with certain areas designed to be transparent or removable to allow light and signal passage to specific components, while other areas remain opaque for protection. This segmentation allows different parts of the cover to serve different functions simultaneously.
2Volume of moving object
If the device is folded into a closed position for storage and transport, then device compactness and protection of interior surfaces are improved, but access to internal components is blocked, preventing unencumbered operation
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cover incorporates dynamic access mechanisms such as sliding sections, peeling flaps, or magnetic releases that allow users to quickly access components like cameras and sensors even when the device is in folded configuration, maintaining ease of operation while preserving compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible cover acts as an intermediary element between the folded device structure and the internal components, providing a controllable barrier that can be selectively opened or transparentized to allow access to components without requiring the device to be unfolded.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3
AI summary
An apparatus comprises a foldable body and a flexible cover coupled to the foldable body. A first edge of the cover is configured to slide from a first position on the foldable body to a second position on the foldable body while transitioning to a folded configuration.