Foldable Phone Case with Hinged Shielding and Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional protective cases for foldable electronic devices are bulky and heavy, compromising their aesthetic appeal and functionality while failing to adequately protect the device's edges and fold axis, and there is a need for a solution that minimizes bulk and weight while maintaining impact protection and versatility.
Innovation Solution
A compact, two-piece protective covering with interconnected shielding bodies and a flexible hinge system, featuring a cover panel that can extend to cover the device's rear display and include a storage compartment, designed to be user-removable and adaptable to various devices, with resilient materials and cushioning for shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional protective cases are used to protect the device from impact, then impact protection is improved, but bulk and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The protective case is divided into two separate shielding bodies (first and second shielding bodies) that can be interconnected via a hinge. This segmentation allows each body to be optimized for protection while the overall structure remains lightweight and compact compared to a single bulky case.
Solution Approach 2:
The case employs thin shielding bodies with resilient materials that provide impact protection through flexibility rather than bulk. The resilient materials absorb shock while maintaining a slim profile, avoiding the need for thick, heavy protective layers.
2Reliability
If conventional protective cases are used to protect the device from impact, then impact protection is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The thin shielding bodies with resilient materials maintain a sleek, modern aesthetic while providing adequate impact protection. The flexible nature of the materials allows for a form-fitting design that enhances rather than detracts from the device's appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-piece design with hinge connection allows for a more refined aesthetic compared to a single bulky case. Each shielding body can be contoured to match the device's shape, creating a more visually appealing protective covering.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional structures are added to increase case functionality, then versatility is improved, but bulk and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge connection between the two shielding bodies enables multiple functions: protecting the fold axis, supporting the device in various orientations, and allowing the case to adapt to different device configurations. This multi-functionality is achieved through the hinge mechanism itself rather than adding separate heavy components.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the case to move and adjust to different device positions and orientations. This dynamic functionality replaces static, bulkier structures that would be needed to provide the same versatility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If additional structures are added to increase case functionality, then versatility is improved, but the case becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge serves multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the fold axis, enables various viewing orientations, and allows the case to conform to different device states. This universal mechanism avoids the need for multiple separate components, reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge combines several functions into a single integrated component, merging the fold axis protection with the orientation support capabilities. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall case structure.
5Reliability
If a protective case covers the entire device including fold axis, then protection is improved, but bulk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The case is segmented into two shielding bodies that connect via a hinge, allowing the case to wrap around and protect the fold axis without requiring a single large bulky structure. Each shielding body covers a specific portion of the device, and the hinge connects them at the fold axis.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge provides dynamic adaptation to the folded and unfolded states of the device, allowing the case to protect the fold axis only when needed (in folded state) while maintaining a compact profile in both states.
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 provides effective impact protection, minimizes bulk and weight, and enhances versatility by allowing the device to be used in multiple orientations and as a stand, while maintaining a slim appearance and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a second end of the hinge slides within slots formed in the first shielding body
Implementation Method 2
resilient materials and cushioning for shock absorption
Implementation Method 3
the hinge both bends and slides between a first closed position and a second open position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A protective carrying case for a foldable mobile electronic device is provided having a concealed storage compartment. The concealed compartment may store credit cards, identification cards and other personal articles. The case also includes an integrated stand that enables a user to prop the foldable mobile device at a desired angle. The case further includes a window to expose the back display of a foldable mobile device.