Invertible Grip Aid for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grip and positioning aids for portable electronic devices often protrude when not in use, creating a hindrance for storage and carrying, and require two-handed operation to activate, which is uncomfortable due to stiff structural rings.
Innovation Solution
A support system with a resiliently deformable base and invertible member that can be actuated from a retracted convex to an extended concave configuration using a central actuatable portion, allowing one-handed operation and comfortable grip without significant protrusion when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If grip aids protrude significantly to provide secure gripping, then gripping security is improved, but storage and carrying become hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The grip aid employs a dynamic structure that can transition between a retracted state (minimizing protrusion for storage) and an extended state (maximizing protrusion for gripping). The resiliently deformable support member and invertible member allow the device to adapt its configuration based on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between gripping security and ease of storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The invertible member is nested within the support member when in the retracted position, allowing the grip aid to maintain a compact profile for storage. When activated, the invertible member extends outward from the support member, providing the necessary protrusion for secure gripping without permanently increasing the device's storage footprint.
2Stability of the object's composition
If stiff structural rings are used to maintain protrusion, then structural stability is improved, but one-handed operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical state of the structural members from rigid to resiliently deformable. The support member and invertible member are made of resilient material that can be deformed by hand pressure for activation but maintains structural stability when extended. This parameter change allows one-handed operation while preserving structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using stiff rings that resist deformation, the invention employs resilient members that are designed to be deformed during activation and then invert to their functional position. The inversion process transforms the activation force into a stable extended configuration, enabling easy one-handed operation while maintaining structural stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the grip aid remains extended to provide continuous support, then positioning capability is improved, but compactness for storage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The grip aid transitions dynamically between extended and retracted states. When positioning is needed, the device extends to provide support and positioning capability. When not in use, it automatically or manually retracts to maintain a compact profile, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning and support functions are extracted as temporary extensions from the main device body. The support member and invertible member can be extended only when needed for positioning, rather than being permanently extended, thus maintaining compactness during storage while providing adaptability during use.
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 secure one-handed grip and versatile positioning of portable electronic devices with reduced protrusion, enhancing usability and comfort by allowing easy activation and retraction of the grip aid.
Implementation Method 1
The resiliently deformable support member (300) and the resiliently deformable invertible member (500) are invertible between (a) a retracted position having a convex configuration overlapping the support member (300), and (b) an extended position inverted from the convex position wherein the invertible member (500) has a concave configuration projecting outwardly from the support member (300). Central portions (350, 550) of the support member (300) and the invertible member (500) together define an actuatable portion operable by depression thereof when the invertible member (500) is in the retracted position thereof to inwardly deform the central portions (350, 550) of the invertible member (500) and the support member (300) so as to initiate inversion of the invertible member (500) from the retracted position to the extended position.
Data Source
AI summary
A support system for use with a portable electronic device comprises a base, a resiliently deformable support member, and a resiliently deformable invertible member. The invertible member is connected to the support member and invertible between a retracted position having a convex configuration overlapping the support member provided on the base and having a convex configuration projecting outwardly from the base and an extended position inverted from the convex position wherein the invertible member has a concave configuration projecting outwardly from the support member. Central portions of the support member and the invertible member together define an actuatable portion. The actuatable portion is operable by depression thereof when the invertible member is in the retracted position thereof to inwardly deform the central portions of the invertible member and the support member so as to initiate inversion of the invertible member from the retracted position to the extended position.