Flexible Hinge Case for Multi-Angle Computing Device Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing device stands often limit the user's interaction and viewing angles due to restricted upright positions, and fail to adequately counteract static and dynamic loads, leading to instability when the device is partially upright.
Innovation Solution
A computing device case with flexible regions and torsional elements that provide counteracting forces to support the device in multiple positions, incorporating springs and flexible layers to resist static and dynamic loads, allowing for adjustable angles and enhanced user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a computing device stand provides a single upright position, then the device can be supported stably, but the user's interaction and viewing angles are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hinge mechanism that allows the stand to dynamically adjust between multiple positions (flat, angled, and upright configurations). The hinge enables continuous movement and positioning, transforming the static single-position stand into a dynamic multi-position support system, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand utilizes a spring mechanism that changes the mechanical parameters (force, torque) based on the position angle. As the hinge rotates to different angles, the spring adjusts its compression state, providing appropriate counterbalancing force at each position. This parameter change enables the stand to maintain stability across multiple viewing angles rather than being fixed to a single position.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the stand supports the device at multiple angles, then user interaction is enhanced, but the device may collapse without adequate counteracting force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a spring mechanism that acts as a counterbalancing force against the weight of the computing device. The spring is positioned and tensioned to provide upward counteracting force that balances the device's weight at various hinge angles, preventing collapse while enabling multi-position support. This directly addresses the reliability concern by providing mechanical counterweight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional rigid mechanical support structures with a compliant spring-based system. Instead of using rigid arms or fixed supports that would require complex locking mechanisms, the invention uses elastic deformation and spring force to provide continuous support and stability across multiple positions, simplifying the mechanical system while enhancing reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid stand structure is used, then the device is supported firmly, but the stand cannot accommodate multiple viewing angles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible hinge components and spring elements that can bend and deform elastically. These flexible elements replace rigid connections, allowing the stand to accommodate angular adjustments while maintaining structural integrity. The flexible hinge enables movement between positions, and the spring provides continuous force to maintain firm support at each angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand structure combines rigid components (for structural framework) with flexible components (springs and hinge joints). This composite construction allows different parts of the system to serve different functions: rigid parts provide overall structural strength, while flexible parts enable angular adjustment. The combination resolves the contradiction between firmness and adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the stand uses complex spring mechanisms to counteract loads, then multi-position support is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support function and the counterbalancing function into a single integrated hinge-spring assembly. Rather than having separate support arms and separate counterweight mechanisms, the invention combines these functions into one unified structure where the hinge provides positional adjustment and the spring provides load counterbalancing simultaneously. This reduces overall device complexity while maintaining multi-position capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides rotational movement for angle adjustment, acts as a structural connection between stand parts, and works with the spring to provide counterbalancing force. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while achieving adaptability.
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 case effectively cancels out static and dynamic loads, enabling the computing device to be positioned in various angles without collapsing, providing stability and flexibility in use.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible region is configured to provide a torsional force that counteracts at least some force exerted by the computing device when the cover portions are configured as the stand
Implementation Method 2
a flexible region between the cover portions. The flexible region is configured to provide a torsional force
Implementation Method 3
a flexible component disposed within the device cover such that the flexible component provides a torsional spring force that counteracts static and dynamic forces exerted by the computing device when the device cover is configured as the stand
Implementation Method 4
provides a torsional spring force that counteracts static and dynamic forces
Data Source
AI summary
This application relates to a computing device case that provides some amount of torsional force in order to cancel at least some static and dynamic loads experienced by the computing device when the case is arranged as a stand. By canceling out these loads, the computing device to be angled at an almost unlimited number of angles relative to a surface on which the computing device is resting. Flexible elements in the case can resist the static and dynamic loads of the computing device, thereby allowing the computing device to receive touch inputs at almost any angle without causing the case and the computing device to collapse.