Locking Device for Portable Electronic Device Case
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable electronic device cases lack a locking feature to prevent improper operation or separation from the device due to impacts like dropping, as they do not securely connect to the electronic device.
Innovation Solution
A securing device comprising a body, case, engaging unit, and locking unit with movable members and a control mechanism that ensures the case is securely attached to the electronic device, utilizing a combination of engaging and locking members with stops and recesses, and a connection member that moves linearly within a guide slot to facilitate secure attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device is added to securely connect the case to the electronic device, then the reliability and security of the connection is improved, but the device complexity and structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into multiple independent components: a locking member with engaging protrusions, a connection member with engaging recesses, and a control member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is disposed within the connection member, with the locking protrusions fitting into locking recesses. This nested arrangement compactly integrates multiple locking functions into a single space, improving connection security while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism with multiple moving parts is implemented, then the connection security is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex locking and unlocking procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The control member integrates multiple control functions into a single component that can simultaneously manipulate both locking members. This merging allows the user to lock and unlock both sides of the case connection through a single operation, maintaining high security while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection member serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection between case parts, incorporates locking recesses for security, and guides the movement of locking members. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall operation while maintaining reliable connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the locking members are made movable to enable locking and unlocking, then the adaptability and usability are improved, but the stability of the connection deteriorates when not properly locked
Solution Approach 1:
The locking protrusions are designed to preemptively engage with the locking recesses before the case can be accidentally separated. This preliminary engagement creates a stable locked state that prevents unintended movement or separation, while the movable nature of the locking members allows intentional unlocking when needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A securing device for a portable electronic device includes a body (10) and a case (12) is mounted to the body (10). First and second engaging members (20, 22) are respectively connected to two sides of the body (10). First and second locking members (24, 26) are respectively and movably connected to the two sides of the body (10) and located corresponding to the first and second engaging members (20, 22). The first locking member (24) includes a first stop (50) and a first recess (52), and the second locking member (26) includes a second stop (54) and a second recess (56). The first/second engaging member (20/22) is stopped by the first/second stop (50/54) and is movable in the first/second recess (52/56) to unlock the secured status. A connection member (28) is pivotably connected to the first and second locking members (24, 26) and is movable by operation of the control member (30) to shift the first and second locking members (24, 26) to allow the first and second engaging members (20, 22) to unlock.