Magnetic Accessory Assembly With Retractable Grip Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern mobile devices are difficult to hold and operate single-handedly due to their size and shape, and existing accessories often exacerbate usability issues, require two-handed operation, or are not versatile enough to accommodate different use-case scenarios, hands-free use, or concurrent transport of everyday items.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive support accessory with a base, cap, and supports that can be attached to a mobile device, allowing for single-handed operation and various hands-free use scenarios, while accommodating everyday items, and featuring a plug for additional functionality and ornamentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If accessories are attached to the mobile device to improve handling, then ease of operation is improved, but the accessory protrudes significantly causing complications for pocket insertion, flat surface operation, and inductive charging
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory employs a spring-loaded plunger mechanism that dynamically adjusts between retracted and extended states. The plunger can be pushed inward to reduce profile for pocket insertion and charging, then extended to provide gripping support for handling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger is nested within the accessory body, allowing it to retract completely inside the housing. This nesting enables the accessory to maintain a compact form factor when the plunger is not in use, eliminating protrusion-related complications.
2Stability of the object's composition
If gripping apparatus is added to secure the device, then security of grip is improved, but user's fingers are fixed in one position restricting flexion and wrist movement
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory is divided into modular components including a base, cap, and detachable plug. The plug can be removed or replaced, allowing users to adjust the gripping configuration to match different hand sizes and grip preferences, thereby maintaining finger flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory serves multiple functions: it provides gripping support, accommodates everyday carry items, and enables hands-free use scenarios. The detachable plug adds ornamental and functional versatility without compromising grip security.
3Stability of the object's composition
If accessories are designed to accommodate one finger for security, then grip security is improved, but comfort is reduced due to one-size-fits-all design
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory allows dynamic reconfiguration through the detachable plug, enabling users to adjust the fit for different finger sizes. This adaptability maintains grip security across various users while improving comfort compared to fixed one-size-fits-all designs.
4Reliability
If accessory components are made durable, then reliability is improved, but susceptibility to premature wear and failure increases due to component complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory is segmented into replaceable components, particularly the plug which can be detached and replaced if worn. This segmentation isolates wear to specific parts, allowing maintenance of overall reliability without requiring replacement of the entire accessory.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable plug can be discarded when worn and replaced with a new one, extending the overall lifespan of the accessory. This approach recovers the value of the durable base and cap components while replacing only the worn element.
5Ease of operation
If two-handed operation is required to deploy accessory, then ease of deployment is improved, but productivity is reduced by losing freedom of one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory employs a spring-loaded plunger mechanism that automatically extends when the accessory is attached to the device. This self-service deployment eliminates the need for two-handed operation, allowing users to attach the accessory while keeping one hand free for other tasks.
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 single-handed operation and versatile hands-free use of mobile devices, adjusting to different users and configurations, and supporting concurrent transport of everyday items, with a plug that enhances utility and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
The base includes a magnetic attachment element configured to attach to a corresponding magnetic attachment interface
Implementation Method 2
The cap includes a ferrous or magnetic element configured to attach to the base
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic component assembly for a mobile device provides an improved connection between a mobile device and other mobile accessories. The magnetic component assembly may comprise an array of magnetic attachment elements enclosed in a structure and configured to magnetically align and attach to a corresponding array of magnetic elements disposed in a mobile device, a mobile device accessory, or another assembly component. Additional attachment features and elements disposed in or attachable to the assembly may provide further engagement or attachment options. The assembly may incorporate different combinations of components to adapt the assembly for different use-cases and provide greater utility. Various magnetic component assemblies may be suitable for use with a variety of mobile devices and accessories such as covers, cases, wallets, chargers, mounts, grips, and supports.