Multi-functional Protective Cover for Portable Electronic Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices with virtual keyboards face challenges in space utilization, leading to reduced output area and increased input difficulties due to the need for separate support stands that can be complex to use and unstable, compromising the portability and convenience of these devices.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional support system with interconnected elements that can transition between supportive and protective configurations, allowing the portable electronic device to be securely positioned upright and protected, while also serving as a cover for computing accessories like keyboards, maintaining the device's minimal dimensions and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a virtual keyboard is displayed on the screen to enable input, then input capabilities are provided, but the area available for output is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The display area is segmented into two functional zones: an upper display region for output and a lower virtual keyboard region for input. This segmentation allows both input and output functions to coexist on the same device without requiring separate physical keyboards, maximizing the use of available screen space while maintaining both capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If a separate support stand is used to prop up the portable electronic device, then upright positioning is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover and support stand functions are merged into a single integrated component. The cover structure incorporates built-in support surfaces that can prop up the device at various angles, eliminating the need for separate support stands and reducing overall accessory complexity while maintaining upright positioning capability.
3Ease of operation
If a separate support stand is used to support the portable electronic device, then upright orientation is maintained, but stability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover is structurally integrated with the support stand, creating a unified rigid assembly. This integration ensures that when the cover is positioned to support the device, the combined structure provides enhanced stability compared to separate components, as the cover itself becomes part of the support framework.
4Reliability
If multiple separate accessories (support stand, protective cover) are carried, then protection and support functions are provided, but portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover and support stand are combined into a single integrated accessory that performs both functions simultaneously. This eliminates the need to carry separate items, reducing the total number of accessories while maintaining both protection and support capabilities, thereby enhancing portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated cover accessory serves multiple functions: it protects the device from damage when closed, provides upright support when positioned during use, and can serve as a carrying case. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate accessories while maintaining comprehensive protection and support.
Data Source
AI summary
A computing system is provided with a portable electronic device, a computing accessory, and a multi-functional support accessory. The support accessory may provide a supportive configuration for supporting the portable electronic device in an upright, working position. The support accessory can also transition to a protective configuration for acting as a protective cover for the computing accessory. When the support accessory is in the protective configuration, the computing accessory can be inserted into, or otherwise protected thereby. When the support accessory is in the supportive position, the portable electronic device can be stabilized in an upright orientation by the support accessory.