Grip Device Shielding Portions Prevent Foreign Matter Entry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional notebook computer grip devices face issues with smooth pulling and retracting operations due to the relative rotation of arm members, which can catch foreign matter in openings, hindering the retracting process.

Innovation Solution

A grip device with stationary portions, arm members, and a grip that includes shielding portions to prevent foreign matter entry and provide tactile feedback, allowing smooth movement between extended and retracted positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If arm members are made rotatable relative to the handle for smooth extension and retraction, then ease of operation is improved, but foreign matter can enter through openings and hinder retraction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle retraction smoothnessVSAvoidforeign matter entry
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A cap member is introduced as an intermediary component that covers the openings in the handle during retraction. The cap member rotates along with the arm members and blocks the openings to prevent foreign matter entry, while allowing smooth rotation and retraction motion of the handle assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The cap member is designed to dynamically rotate together with the arm members during handle extension and retraction. This dynamic movement ensures the openings remain covered during retraction while allowing proper exposure during extension, adapting to the operational state of the handle

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If openings are formed in the handle for arm member attachment, then device functionality is improved, but foreign matter can be caught and operation reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearm member attachmentVSAvoidretraction operation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The cap member serves as a protective intermediary that covers the openings formed in the handle for arm member attachment. During retraction, the cap member blocks these openings to prevent foreign matter entry, thereby maintaining operational reliability while preserving the necessary attachment functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If shielding portions are added to prevent foreign matter entry, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveretraction operation reliabilityVSAvoidhandle structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cap member is merged with the existing handle and arm member assembly. It rotates along with the arm members and is integrated into the overall structure, providing shielding functionality without requiring separate complex mechanisms or additional independent components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cap member serves multiple functions: it covers the openings to prevent foreign matter entry, rotates dynamically with the arm members during operation, and integrates with the existing handle structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 smooth pulling and retracting operations by preventing foreign matter from entering the openings and providing tactile feedback for precise positioning, ensuring reliable and efficient handle movement.

Implementation Method 1

one end of the first arm member and one end of the second arm member are supported rotatably by the first stationary portion and the second stationary portion, respectively

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRotation:

Implementation Method 2

the grip includes shielding portions for shielding the openings

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhysical barrier shielding: Physical Containment

Data Source

PatentUS7936562B2Grip device and information processing unit
Publication Date: 2011.05.03 PANASONIC HOLDINGS CORP
  • US7936562B2 patent drawing
  • US7936562B2 patent drawing
  • US7936562B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In a grip device of the present invention, shielding members are placed in the openings of a handle in which arm members are to be arranged, respectively. This can make it difficult for a foreign matter to enter the handle via the openings. The presence of the shielding members can prevent a foreign matter from being caught between the handle and each of the arm members when the handle is moved from the extended position to the retracted position, resulting in a smooth movement of the handle.