Metal Purse with Hinged Gap for Wireless Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Metal purses interfere with cellular and wireless signals, preventing communication when a device is housed inside, and existing designs fail to maintain signal strength while being stylish and functional.
Innovation Solution
A metal purse with a bivalve construction and a hinge mechanism that maintains a small gap between the shells when closed, allowing cellular or wireless signals to pass through, with options for additional signal enhancement via perforations or slots, and an outer decorative shell made of plastic or polycarbonate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal shells are closed tightly to maintain structural integrity and style, then structural strength and aesthetic appearance are improved, but cellular and wireless signal reception deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The purse is divided into two separate metal shell halves that are hinged together, creating a permanent gap between the shells. This segmentation allows wireless signals to pass through while maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the metal construction.
Solution Approach 2:
A non-conductive hinge mechanism serves as an intermediary element between the two metal shells. This hinge not only connects the shells for structural stability but also acts as a signal pathway that allows wireless signals to penetrate the purse structure.
2Reliability
If a gap is introduced between metal shells to allow signal passage, then wireless signal reception is improved, but structural closure and water resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The purse structure is segmented into two shells connected by a hinge, creating a controlled gap that maintains closure integrity while allowing signal passage. The hinge mechanism ensures the shells remain properly aligned and closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The gap distance between shells is precisely controlled at approximately 0.027 inches, which is sufficient to allow wireless signal penetration while maintaining adequate structural closure and protection of contents.
3Reliability
If gap distance between shells is increased to improve signal strength, then wireless signal reception is improved, but manufacturing precision and aesthetic appearance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The gap distance is optimized to approximately 0.027 inches, providing a precise parameter that balances signal strength requirements with manufacturing feasibility and aesthetic appearance. This specific gap dimension allows sufficient signal penetration while remaining visually imperceptible.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism automatically maintains the prescribed gap distance between shells through its design, eliminating the need for additional precision control mechanisms. The hinge structure itself ensures consistent gap maintenance during assembly and use.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are metal purses, particularly clam shell type purses made of metal and in some embodiments, provided with a gap between the shells sufficient to allow for cell phone reception within the purse. Aesthetic exterior shells may also be applied.