Multi-Modal Electronic Device Cover with Rotational Hinge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices face protection issues for their display screens, which are susceptible to breakage upon impact, and existing solutions do not effectively provide versatile and aesthetically pleasing protection along with functionality as a stand.
Innovation Solution
A multi-modal cover with a first and second planar member, a rotational hinge, and a releasable locking arrangement, constructed from various materials, allowing rotation and configuration changes to function as a stand while providing impact resistance and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple cover is used to protect the display screen, then the protection function is provided, but the versatility and aesthetic appeal are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is divided into multiple planar members (first planar member, second planar member, third planar member) that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows the cover to transform between different modes (flat mode, stand mode, book mode) while maintaining protection functionality, thereby resolving the contradiction between simple protection and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover incorporates dynamic elements including a rotational hinge that allows rotation between planar members, and a releasable locking arrangement that enables transition between fixed and movable states. This dynamic design permits the cover to adapt to multiple usage scenarios (protection mode, stand mode, reading mode) while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
2Strength
If a rigid structure is used to provide impact resistance, then the protection strength is improved, but the ability to function as a stand and configurations are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cover structure is segmented into multiple rigid planar members connected by flexible joints (rotational hinge). Each planar member maintains rigidity for impact resistance, while the segmented connection allows the structure to transform into different configurations (stand mode, book mode, flat mode), resolving the contradiction between strength and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover utilizes a releasable locking arrangement that changes the mechanical parameters of the structure. When locked, the structure becomes rigid for impact protection; when unlocked, the rotational hinge allows movement for configuration changes. This parameter change enables the same structure to provide both impact resistance and versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex structure with multiple planar members is used to provide versatility and stand function, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure. The same planar members that provide protection also serve as support surfaces for stand functionality. The rotational hinge and locking arrangement simultaneously enable both protection and multi-mode configuration. This merging reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while achieving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover design achieves multi-functionality where the same structure serves multiple purposes: protection mode (cover over display), stand mode (support for device at angles), and book mode (folding position for reading). This universal design eliminates the need for separate products, managing complexity through functional integration rather than adding more components.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a releasable locking arrangement is added to enable flat configuration, then the stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The releasable locking arrangement is designed to be easily operated by the user without requiring external tools or complex mechanisms. The locking and unlocking actions can be performed through simple user interactions (pushing, pulling, or snapping motions), making the stability feature accessible while minimizing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A cover for an electronic device includes first and second planar members wherein, a first end of the second planar member is disposed adjacent to a first end of the first planar member. The cover also includes a coupling arrangement configured to be attached to a first end of the electronic device and configured to permit rotation of the first and second planar members around the first end of the electronic device, and a rotational hinge configured to couple together the first ends of the first and second planar members such that the second planar member is rotatable with respect to the first planar member.