Interchangeable Covers for Mobile Devices

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

External cases for electronic mobile devices increase size and weight and often interfere with device docking, requiring removal for accessory connections.

Innovation Solution

The design of an electronic mobile device featuring interchangeable removable covers that act as both compartment covers and a protective case, allowing for personalization and enabling device connection to accessories without removal, utilizing a connection interface with a saddle-like shape to facilitate docking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If external cases are added to electronic mobile devices, then protection and personalization are improved, but device size and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveprotectionVSAvoiddevice weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the protective case function with the device's own cover structure. The cover is integrated into the device body rather than being a separate external case, combining protection and structural elements into a single unified component that doesn't add excessive weight or bulk.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cover serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides physical protection, enables device personalization through interchangeable designs, and maintains compatibility with docking accessories. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protective cases.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If external cases are added to electronic mobile devices, then protection is improved, but interference with docking connections occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveprotectionVSAvoiddocking connection

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cover is segmented with specific openings and recesses that align with docking connection points. This segmentation allows connection interfaces to remain accessible through the cover structure, enabling docking operations without removing the protective cover.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cover acts as an intermediary structure that accommodates docking connections. It includes integrated docking interfaces or openings that mediate between the protective enclosure and the connection requirements, allowing both functions to coexist.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If removable covers are implemented, then personalization is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovepersonalizationVSAvoidcover attachment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cover attachment mechanism uses dynamic elements such as snap-fit connections or magnetic attachment that allow easy installation and removal. These mechanisms provide secure attachment during use but enable simple detachment for cover replacement, balancing versatility with ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2355458B1Electronic mobile device having interchangeable covers

Publication Date: 2014.01.08 BLACKBERRY LTD

Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6

AI summary

An electronic mobile device includes a base having a front surface and a rear surface. The front surface has an input panel, and the rear surface defines a first compartment and a second compartment. A first cover is detachably supported by the base and prevents access to the first compartment. A second cover is detachably supported by the base and prevents access to the second compartment.