Hinged Mobile Device Cover with Retention Band
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile device accessories fail to provide a secure and versatile support that allows mobile devices to be used both as handheld units and as tabletop devices, especially during physical activities or when user dexterity is reduced.
Innovation Solution
A configurable support system comprising a backplate and an elongate member with hinged segments that can be adjusted between open and closed configurations, allowing for secure hand retention and conversion to a tabletop mode, featuring a retention band with longitudinal retention portions for secure attachment and reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a support structure is added to a mobile device cover, then the device can be used as a tabletop device, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple segments (first segment and second segment) that can move independently relative to each other and to the backplate. This segmentation allows the support to transition between different configurations (handheld mode with support retracted, tabletop mode with support extended at various angles) without requiring a completely complex mechanical assembly, as each segment can be controlled separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure employs dynamic elements including hinges that allow the segments to rotate relative to each other and to the backplate, and a retention band that can dynamically adjust to retain the segments in different positions. This dynamic design enables the support to adapt between handheld configuration (segments retracted against the backplate) and tabletop configuration (segments extended at desired angles), providing versatility without permanent complex structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hinged elongate member is incorporated into the cover, then the mobile device can function as both handheld and tabletop devices, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention band is designed to automatically engage with the elongate member segments to retain them in different configurations. When the segments are moved to desired positions (retracted for handheld mode or extended at specific angles for tabletop mode), the retention band passively secures them without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex control systems, thereby simplifying operation despite the multi-configuration capability.
3Reliability
If longitudinal retention portions are added to secure the elongate member, then the reliability of the support structure increases, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retention band is implemented as a flexible band element that can elastically deform to accommodate the elongate member segments in different positions. This flexibility allows the retention portions to engage with the segments tolerantly, meaning that minor variations in manufacturing precision of the retention portions do not prevent proper engagement. The flexible band compensates for dimensional tolerances while still providing reliable retention in both handheld and tabletop configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
An accessory for a mobile device comprising a cover. The cover comprises a main body for coupling to a rear surface of a mobile device, an elongate member extending adjacent a rear face of the main body, and a retention band extending from the rear face of the main body and peripheral to the elongate member. The elongate member having a distal end and a proximal end and comprising at least a first segment at the proximal end and a second segment at the distal end, the first segment being hingedly attached to the main body at the proximal end.