Origami-Inspired Foldable Accessory for Multi-Angle Device Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional accessories for electronic devices are often limited in size and shape, failing to provide versatile support and protection for diverse usage scenarios, as they are typically designed specifically for a particular device dimension.
Innovation Solution
A foldable accessory with a flexible substrate and structural elements that can be arranged in various configurations, including non-parallel and diagonal fold lines, allowing the accessory to be customized for different electronic devices and provide multiple three-dimensional support angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional accessories are designed specifically for a particular device dimension, then they provide precise fit and protection for that device, but they fail to provide versatility for different device sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory is divided into multiple structural elements (rigid supports, flexible segments, foldable components) that can be independently positioned and configured. These segmented elements allow the accessory to adapt to different device dimensions while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory incorporates dynamic elements such as foldable regions, adjustable supports, and flexible substrates that can change configuration. This dynamic structure enables the same accessory to provide precise fit for multiple device sizes and shapes without requiring multiple fixed-design accessories.
2Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are designed with fixed size and shape, then they provide stable structural support, but they cannot be reconfigured for different usage scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory employs dynamic structures including foldable regions with hinges, adjustable support arms, and flexible substrates that maintain structural integrity during transitions. These dynamic elements allow reconfiguration between different usage scenarios while preserving stability within each configured state through mechanical locking or friction-based positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory changes its structural parameters (angles, lengths, configurations) through mechanical adjustment mechanisms. By varying these parameters, the same accessory can provide stable support for different usage scenarios such as typing, viewing, or charging, without compromising the structural stability in any given configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If accessories use multiple fold lines for reconfiguration, then they provide multiple support angles, but they increase manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory uses segmented structural elements separated by fold lines, where each segment can be independently manufactured using standard fabrication processes. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual components that are then assembled through folding, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite providing multiple support angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory incorporates flexible substrates and thin film structures that can be easily folded and shaped. These flexible materials simplify manufacturing by eliminating the need for complex rigid joint mechanisms, allowing multiple fold lines to be created through simple material properties rather than complex assembly processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Accessory units for electronic devices are described. The accessory units can include a panel that has a flexible substrate with a network of structural elements that are arranged to fold the panel into different forms and shapes similar to origami. For example, the panel can be bent along one or more fold lines that are defined by adjacent structural elements. In some cases, the panels are configured to fold at preferred fold lines, sometimes in non-parallel orientations with respect to each other. In one case, the accessory can be unfolded into a flat configuration and serve as a cover for the electronic device. In some cases, the accessory units can be brought behind and support an electronic device at different angles with respect to a support surface. The accessory units can also include features such as keyboards, touch pads, or other input devices for the electronic devices.