Foldable Electronic Device Cover with Multi-Section Hinge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional flat-type electronic devices with rotating lid covers are limited in their usability as they only open and close, failing to accommodate various usage scenarios effectively.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates a first flat section on the back surface and a second flat section that openably and closably covers the front surface, with a coupling section allowing the sections to fold, enabling flexible use based on situational needs through folding sections and a pause mechanism for stable imaging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the lid cover section is designed to only open and close, then the structure is simple, but the usability is limited and cannot accommodate various usage scenarios

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveusabilityVSAvoidstructure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective cover is divided into multiple flat sections (first flat section, second flat section, third flat section) connected by folding sections, allowing each section to be independently positioned to create various stable configurations suitable for different usage scenarios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cover transitions from a static single-piece structure to a dynamic multi-section structure with folding sections that can be selectively bent at different angles, enabling the cover to adapt its shape and function based on usage requirements while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a multi-section folding structure is introduced to enhance usability, then various usage scenarios can be accommodated, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveusage configurationsVSAvoidnumber of sections

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The same multi-section cover structure serves multiple functions: it protects the device when closed, provides various stable angles for viewing and typing when partially opened, and can be configured in different positions to suit various usage scenarios, eliminating the need for separate accessories

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The multiple flat sections are nested together through folding sections, allowing the cover to collapse into a compact form when not in use while expanding into various stable configurations when needed, maximizing space efficiency and functional versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS9344538B2Electronic device

Publication Date: 2016.05.17 CASIO COMPUTER CO LTD

AI summary

An electronic device of the present invention includes a first flat section which is positioned on a back surface side of a flat-type device body, a second flat section which openably and closably covers a front surface of the device body, and a coupling section which couples the first flat section and the second flat section together such that the first flat section and the second flat section are foldable. The first flat section has a first folding section provided in parallel with the coupling section, and the second flat section has a second folding section provided in parallel with the coupling section.