Monolithic Device Carrier With Flexible Gate for Secure Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing device carriers are either bulky, prone to wear, or aesthetically unpleasing, and lack a mechanism for easy attachment and detachment of devices while securely retaining them for frequent use.
Innovation Solution
A device carrier with monolithic, integrally formed rigid and flexible parts that include an upper loop for attaching to objects and a lower loop for securely supporting devices, allowing easy exchange and access, featuring a gate that pivots between open and closed configurations to facilitate secure mounting and communication access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional device carriers are made bulky to provide secure retention, then device security is improved, but portability and ease of attachment are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rigid frame and flexible gate into a single monolithic structure formed from one piece of material. This integration eliminates the need for separate components and fasteners, reducing overall weight while maintaining secure device retention through the coordinated action of rigid and flexible zones within the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different mechanical properties to different regions of the carrier structure. The rigid portions provide structural support and security, while the flexible portions enable easy opening and closing. This local differentiation of material properties within the monolithic structure allows the carrier to be both secure and portable without requiring bulky components.
2Ease of operation
If device carriers use multiple separate parts for attachment mechanisms, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and wear are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the attachment mechanism into the monolithic structure itself, eliminating separate fasteners, hinges, or connectors. The flexible gate and rigid frame work together as an integrated system where the gate naturally pivots and latches against the frame, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic structure with flexible and rigid zones performs self-latching and self-releasing functions without requiring additional components. The flexible gate automatically engages with the rigid frame structure to secure the device and can be easily released by applying force to open the gate, providing self-service attachment and detachment.
3Strength
If device carriers are made from rigid materials for durability, then strength is improved, but aesthetic appeal and flexibility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single material throughout the monolithic structure but creates aesthetic and functional variation through local geometric differences. The rigid zones provide structural strength and durability, while the flexible zones create smooth, flowing shapes that are aesthetically pleasing. The continuous surface without visible joints or seams enhances appearance while maintaining strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the monolithic structure to create regions of different flexibility while using the same material. By varying the thickness, curvature, and cross-sectional geometry of different zones, the design achieves both rigid areas for strength and flexible areas for aesthetics and operation, all within a unified material structure.
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 device carrier provides secure, durable, and aesthetically pleasing support for various devices, enabling easy attachment and detachment while resisting wear and ensuring secure communication access.
Implementation Method 1
the second body elastically deforms to facilitate movement of the gate from the closed configuration to the open configuration
Data Source
AI summary
Device carriers described herein can support a device therein and enable a user to readily attach, detach, and exchange the device with other objects and/or to a user for easy access. The construction can include both rigid and flexible parts that are formed together to both facilitate easy operation and be resistant to wear. The construction can further provide an elegant appearance.