Foldable Cradle Mechanism for Magnetic Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing protective covers for electronic devices that form typing or standing-view cradles using magnets can degrade the performance of magnetic field sensors and antennas, and are prone to separation or collapse under external pressure.

Innovation Solution

A protective cover design that uses foldable cradling portions without magnets, where the cradling portions are folded and unfolded to provide stable support as a typing or standing cradle, and can be accommodated within the cover when not in use, using hinge and catching mechanisms for enhanced stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a magnet is used to form a typing cradle or standing-view cradle in the protective cover, then the cradle can be formed to support the electronic device at various angles, but the magnetic field sensor and antenna performance may be degraded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecradle formation capabilityVSAvoidmagnetic field interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The harmful magnet is extracted and removed from the protective cover entirely. The cradle formation function is achieved through alternative mechanical means (foldable cover portions with hinge and catching mechanisms) rather than magnetic attraction, thereby eliminating magnetic field interference with sensors and antennas while preserving cradle functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic system is replaced with a mechanical system. Instead of using magnetism to hold the cradle structure, the patent employs mechanical folding and catching mechanisms where the cover portions are folded to specific positions and secured by catching mechanisms, achieving cradle formation through pure mechanical means.

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

2Device complexity

If only a magnet is used to form the typing cradle or standing-view cradle, then the structure remains simple, but the cradle may be easily separated or laid down when external pressure is applied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecradle structure complexityVSAvoidcradle stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The cradle structure transitions from a static magnetic hold to a dynamic mechanical system. The cover portions can be folded and unfolded as needed, and when positioned for cradle formation, they are secured by catching mechanisms that provide active engagement. This dynamic mechanical system responds to external pressure by maintaining engagement through the catching mechanisms rather than relying on passive magnetic attraction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cradle structure is segmented into multiple foldable cover portions (first and second cover portions) that can be independently positioned and secured. Each portion can be folded to a specific angle and held by catching mechanisms, allowing the cradle to be formed in different configurations while maintaining stability through distributed mechanical engagement points rather than a single magnetic point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2887179B1Protective cover for electronic device
Publication Date: 2020.05.06 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP2887179B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2887179B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2887179B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A protective cover is provided that protects an electronic device. The protective cover includes a front cover having a front surface and a rear surface. The rear surface of the front cover is disposed over a front surface of the electronic device when the protective cover is closed. The protective cover also includes a rear cover connected with the front cover and having a front surface and a rear surface. The rear surface of the rear cover is disposed on a rear surface of the electronic device. The protective cover further includes a plurality of foldable segments disposed on the rear surface of the front cover. The plurality of foldable segments are unfolded for use as a stand of the protective cover and are folded for storage within the rear surface of the front cover.