Flexible Strap Handle for Secure Smartphone Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mounting systems for smartphones and tablets fail to provide a secure, ergonomic grip and hands-free operation while maintaining user dexterity, as they either limit access to controls or are susceptible to shocks and vibrations.

Innovation Solution

A flexible strap attached to a rigid base, which can be easily adhered to devices, providing a secure grip and allowing hands-free operation through a complementary mounting system that interfaces with various surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If clamps are used to secure the phone, then the device is physically captured, but accessibility to buttons and control screen is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice captureVSAvoidaccessibility to controls

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp is divided into two separate jaws that can independently adjust and close around the device. This segmentation allows the clamp to capture the device securely while maintaining gaps that provide access to buttons and controls on the device edges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp design incorporates adjustable jaw openings that allow access to controls from the sides of the device rather than requiring access from the front face. This dimensional approach to control accessibility resolves the conflict between secure capture and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If clamps are used to secure the phone, then the device is physically captured, but the clamp protrudes beyond the screen plane

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice captureVSAvoidprofile

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp incorporates springs that enable the jaws to dynamically adjust and close around the device. This dynamic mechanism allows the clamp to maintain a low profile when closed while still providing secure capture, eliminating the need for protruding fixed structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-based mechanical system replaces rigid, protruding clamp structures with a flexible closing mechanism that adapts to the device dimensions, maintaining a sleek profile while achieving secure capture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If clamps are used to secure the phone, then the device is physically captured, but the clamp has limited opening/closing range

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice captureVSAvoidcompatibility with devices

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp features adjustable jaw openings that can be modified to accommodate different device sizes and shapes. This parameter adjustment capability allows the same clamp design to work with various smartphones and tablets, significantly improving compatibility across different devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Ease of operation

If magnetic mounts are used, then ease of operation is improved, but physical capture is not provided

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveone-handed operationVSAvoidresistance to shock and vibration

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention combines magnetic attraction with mechanical jaw capture in a hybrid mounting system. The magnetic component provides easy one-handed operation for attachment and removal, while the mechanical jaws provide physical capture and resistance to shock and vibration, achieving both ease of operation and reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

5Ease of operation

If a secure grip accessory is added, then user grip and dexterity are enhanced, but the device dimensions increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrip and dexterityVSAvoiddevice dimensions

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The grip accessory uses a flexible strap with adhesive properties that conforms to the device surface. This thin, flexible design provides enhanced grip and dexterity while adding minimal dimensions to the device, allowing it to fit comfortably in pockets and purses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 enhances user grip and dexterity, reduces device damage, and allows for secure, hands-free use of electronic devices on various surfaces without obstructing controls or being easily dislodged.

Implementation Method 1

a flexible strap that is adhered at both ends to a singular, rigid base that is, in turn, strongly adhered to the back of a handheld electronic device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS9259077B2Elastic securing apparatus and mounting system for electronic device

Publication Date: 2016.02.16 JOHNNY RHYMES WITH CONNIE LLC

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a system comprising a handle apparatus and mounting system designed for easier and more secure transport of a mobile phone or other hand-held electronic device, and wherein an electronic device can be secured to a surface. The handle apparatus includes a flexible strap, a base, and an adhesive. The mounting system includes a mount faceplate, which includes a central hub and two opposing spiral arms, and an attachment apparatus.