Foldable Accessory Device for Adjustable Electronic Viewing Angles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices are difficult to use when not held in hand, as they are designed for mobility and portability, making it challenging to position them at various angles on flat surfaces for optimal viewing or operation.

Innovation Solution

An accessory device with foldable members and magnetic components that can detachably connect to electronic devices, allowing for adjustable positioning by covering and supporting the device's surfaces, enabling multiple folding states for different usage scenarios.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If electronic devices are designed for mobility and portability with a fixed panel form, then they are easy to carry, but they are difficult to position at various angles on flat surfaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of positioningVSAvoidadaptability to different usage scenarios
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The cover includes multiple foldable members (first, second, third, and fourth members) that can be folded and unfolded to adjust the positioning angle of the electronic device. The fifth member can fold to contact the first member at different positions, enabling dynamic angle adjustment for various usage scenarios such as viewing, charging, or media consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cover is divided into multiple independent foldable members (first member, second member, third member, fourth member) that can be folded and unfolded separately. This segmentation allows each member to contribute to different aspects of positioning, enabling the device to be positioned at various angles while maintaining portability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple foldable members are added to enable various positioning angles, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of positioning anglesVSAvoidcomplexity of cover structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple foldable members are combined into a single integrated cover structure that attaches to the electronic device. The first, second, third, and fourth members work together as a coordinated system to provide multiple positioning angles, reducing the need for separate positioning devices while maintaining structural manageability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fifth member uses magnetic force to maintain contact with the first member at different positions, replacing complex mechanical locking mechanisms. This magnetic attachment system simplifies the overall structure by eliminating the need for multiple mechanical fasteners or adjustment mechanisms while still enabling precise positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables electronic devices to be securely positioned at various angles on flat surfaces, enhancing usability and versatility without compromising mobility or portability.

Implementation Method 1

The fifth member maintains contact with the first member using magnetic force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

At least one of the first member, the fourth member, and the fifth member comprises a magnetic body or a material attracted by a magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS9654165B2Accessory device and electronic device including the same
Publication Date: 2017.05.16 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9654165B2 patent drawing
  • US9654165B2 patent drawing
  • US9654165B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An accessory device is provided that covers an electronic device. The accessory device includes a plurality of members which are connected to each other to be pivoted with respect to each other. The plurality of members may be pivoted to maintain a viewing angle of the electronic device on a surface.