Foldable Support Structure With Detents for Device Aesthetics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support structures for external hardware elements on electronic devices often compromise the aesthetic appeal while providing limited flexibility in usage configurations.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of foldable support structures with rotatable elements and detents that allow for multiple angular positions, enabling the support structure to be folded and unfolded as needed, thus maintaining the device's appearance and providing versatile support options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a support structure is provided on the electronic device to hold external hardware elements, then the usability and convenience are improved, but the aesthetic appearance of the device deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to be movable between a retracted position (flush with the outer surface) and an extended position (protruding to support hardware elements). This dynamic capability allows the device to maintain aesthetic appearance when the support is not needed while providing functionality when required, resolving the contradiction between usability and appearance.
2Shape
If a fixed support structure is provided on the device, then the aesthetic appearance is maintained, but the flexibility in usage configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates rotational movement capability with detent mechanisms that allow it to be positioned at multiple angular orientations. This enables the support to adapt to different hardware element configurations and user preferences while maintaining a clean appearance when retracted, thus resolving the contradiction between aesthetic appearance and flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a movable support structure is provided, then the flexibility in usage configurations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into distinct functional segments: a support portion for holding hardware elements, a rotating connection portion for enabling angular movement, and a detent mechanism for position locking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall structure manageable and not excessively complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent mechanism automatically locks the support structure at specific angular positions without requiring external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms. The structure serves itself by using its own geometry and mechanical features to maintain stable positions, reducing the need for additional complex control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example, an electronic device comprises a device housing having an outer surface, a pivot element disposed within an indentation having a set of detents, and a support structure rotatable about the pivot element. The support structure may comprise a projecting element to engage with each detent of the set of detents. Upon a force being applied at a first portion of the support structure, the support structure is to rotate such that a second portion of the support structure is to protrude from the outer surface of the device housing.