Magnetic Retractable Phone Strap for Grip and Viewing Angle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile communications devices are prone to breakage and have difficulty being viewed and interacted with when lying flat, necessitating a secure holding and adjustable viewing solution.
Innovation Solution
A magnetically configurable strap accessory with a strap and base, utilizing magnets for secure attachment and adjustable positioning to form a loop for enhanced grip and viewing angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a strap accessory is used to securely hold the mobile communications device, then the device security and grip are improved, but the device complexity and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the strap and base into a single integrated accessory unit that attaches to the mobile device. The strap with magnets and the base with sleeve work together as one cohesive security mechanism, reducing the need for multiple separate components while maintaining reliable device holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (buckles, clips, or adhesive mounts) with a magnetic attachment system. The magnets in the strap and base provide secure attachment through magnetic attraction, eliminating complex mechanical fastening mechanisms while maintaining reliable device security.
2Ease of operation
If the strap is extended to form a loop for better viewing angle, then the viewing comfort is improved, but the accessory profile and portability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic strap system that can transition between retracted and extended states. The strap can be pulled from the base to form a viewing loop when needed, and retracted into the base when not in use, providing adaptive functionality that adjusts to different usage scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nesting mechanism where the strap can be inserted into and stored within the base sleeve. When the strap is not needed for viewing, it is retracted into the base, creating a compact nested configuration that minimizes the accessory's overall volume and improves portability.
3Strength
If magnets are used for secure attachment, then the attachment strength is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies magnets only at specific strategic locations where attachment is needed (in the strap and base), rather than throughout the entire accessory. This localized application of magnetic material provides sufficient attachment strength while minimizing manufacturing complexity and material costs.
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
Provides secure handholding and adjustable positioning for improved device usability, allowing for better viewing angles and a compact profile when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic attraction between the first strap magnet and the first base magnet and magnetic attraction between the second strap magnet and the second base magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetically configurable strap accessory for a mobile communications device and method of using the same is disclosed. The magnetically configurable strap accessory includes a strap and a base. The strap includes at least one strap magnet. The base includes at least one base magnet and a sleeve disposed at a first end of the base into which a portion of the strap can be retracted when the accessory is in a closed position and from which a portion of the strap can be extended when the accessory is in an open position. In the closed position, the strap is held in a substantially flat position against the base by way of magnetic attraction between at least one of the strap magnets and at least one of the first base magnets. In an open position, the strap is held in a substantially arched position with respect to the base hereby forming a loop between the base and the strap.