Handheld Docking Assembly for Ergonomic Multi-Position Reading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional eReader and electronic tablet stands and cases often require users to grip devices firmly, leading to hand strain and discomfort, especially for those with arthritis, and do not allow for flexible reading positions.
Innovation Solution
A docking assembly with contoured arms and legs that can rest on the hand or various surfaces, providing adjustable support and balance, allowing users to hold or stand their devices with reduced pressure and change reading positions easily, using materials like rubber, plastic, or wood, and incorporating features like elastic bands and Velcro for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional stands secure the eReader in place using support structures, then the device is held stable, but the user must grip the device firmly causing hand strain and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly is divided into separate functional components: a base portion for stability, arm portions for hand support, and contoured surfaces for ergonomic contact. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its function independently while working together to eliminate the need for firm gripping.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking assembly acts as an intermediary between the user's hand and the eReader device. The arm portions with contoured surfaces serve as mediators that distribute pressure and provide support, preventing direct transmission of gripping force to the hand and eliminating hand strain.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional cases are used to protect eReaders, then the device is protected, but the user cannot change reading positions easily
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly combines multiple functions into a single device: it provides protective case functionality, stable stand capability, and ergonomic hand support. The contoured arm portions can rest on different surfaces (hand, lap, pillow, bed, chair, ground, beach), enabling versatile reading positions while maintaining device protection and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking assembly transitions from static conventional stands to a dynamic system where the arm portions can be positioned and rested on various surfaces according to the user's preferred reading position. This dynamic adaptability allows easy position changes while maintaining stability and protection.
3Reliability
If static reading stands are used, then the device is held in one position, but the user must stay in one position to read
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly serves multiple functions: it provides stable device positioning through the base portion while simultaneously offering versatile reading position options through arm portions that can rest on various surfaces. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between stable positioning and user position flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds the dimension of surface variety by allowing arm portions to rest on multiple different surfaces (hand, lap, pillow, bed, chair, ground, beach). This dimensional expansion transforms the reading experience from fixed-position stands to multi-surface adaptable support, enabling users to change positions freely while maintaining device stability.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention can be categorized as aids and/or docking assemblies for handheld electronic devices. The docking assembly described herein serves at least as (a) an aid for holding and using handheld computing appliances, and/or (b) a protective case for handheld computing appliances, and/or (c) a stand for handheld computing appliances.