Reusable Mobile Device Attachment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for protecting mobile devices from damage, theft, and loss are either incomplete, expensive, cumbersome, or not compatible with various mobile device models.

Innovation Solution

A reusable attachment device that physically connects mobile devices with cases to a user, surface, or structure, providing protection against drops, theft, and loss, while being compatible with multiple iPhone models and their cases.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a robust case is used to protect the mobile device, then the device is better protected from damage, but the case becomes heavy and cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotection from damageVSAvoidweight of case

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The protective function is divided between the original device case and a separate attachment device. The attachment device is a lightweight additive that provides security and drop protection without requiring a completely new heavy case design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment device combines a flexible body made of elastomeric material with a reinforcing member made of rigid material. This composite structure provides both flexibility for comfort and rigidity for protection, achieving strong protection with minimal weight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If a specialized case is used to anchor the mobile device to a surface, then the device can be securely attached, but the case is not compatible with various mobile device models

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidcompatibility with device models

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment device is designed with universal compatibility across multiple mobile device models and case types. It can be attached to any case that fits snugly against the device, making it adaptable to various device sizes and shapes without requiring model-specific designs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If adhesive is used to attach the connection device to the mobile device, then the connection is secure, but the adhesive may damage the device surface upon removal

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidsurface damage from adhesive

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces adhesive bonding with a mechanical attachment system. The attachment device uses friction and physical interlocking mechanisms to secure itself to the case, eliminating the need for adhesive and preventing surface damage upon removal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Reliability

If insurance is purchased to protect against device loss, then financial protection is provided, but the deductible is expensive and convenience is still lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotection against lossVSAvoidfinancial cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment device provides preliminary physical security against theft and loss by keeping the device connected to the user or a secure location. This preventive measure reduces the likelihood of loss occurring, eliminating the need for expensive insurance deductibles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

The attachment device effectively reduces the risk of damage, theft, and loss of mobile devices by keeping them physically connected, is reusable, and does not require adhesive, making it a cost-effective and versatile solution.

Implementation Method 1

The plate-like piece of material folded onto itself. The device further includes a connector, the connector sandwiched between the plate-like piece of material. The plate-like piece of material is shaped to fit on a back of an electronic device, such that the plate-like piece of material is sandwiched between the back of the electronic device and a case, the plate-like piece shaped and having the electrostatic cling properties, to resist lateral movement in relation to the electronic device while being held to the back of the electronic device from moving in an orthogonal direction in relation to the electronic device.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic cling: Electrostatics

Data Source

PatentUS12237859B2Mobile device connection apparatus

Publication Date: 2025.02.25 NITE IZE INC

AI summary

A mobile device connection apparatus, method and system is disclosed which allows a user to physically connect or tether, without the use of adhesive, a mobile device with a case to a user, surface, or structure. The mobile device connection apparatus comprises multiple layers of materials to create a connection point for mobile devices, such as mobile phones, which is compatible with devices with a case, reusable, and robust and prevents mobile devices from being damaged, lost, and stolen. Further the mobile device connection apparatus allows a user to interact with their phone in new ways.