Phone Case Cable Retraction Brake for Tangle-Free Earbuds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective cases for handheld electronic devices do not effectively manage earphone/earbud cables, leading to tangling and potential damage due to uncontrollable retraction mechanisms like spring-loaded wheels, which can shorten the cable life.
Innovation Solution
A retractable storage system with a friction-based braking system for earphone/earbud cables, featuring a spring-biased spool and damping pads to control the retraction speed, along with independent control buttons for each cable, and additional features like accessory storage and signal enhancement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If spring-loaded retraction mechanisms are used for earphone cables, then automatic cable retraction is achieved, but the cable is subjected to undue pressure and damage due to uncontrollable retraction speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where a brake mechanism responds to the retraction motion of the spring-loaded spool. As the spool rotates during retraction, the brake mechanism engages through friction or magnetic fields to provide counteracting force, creating a closed-loop control that regulates retraction speed and prevents excessive force on the cable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a brake mechanism as an intermediary component between the spring-loaded spool and the cable. This intermediary element absorbs and dissipates the excess energy from the spring mechanism, mediating the interaction between the retraction force and the cable to prevent damage while maintaining automated retraction functionality.
2Ease of operation
If spring-loaded retraction mechanisms are used for earphone cables, then cable storage is achieved, but tangling and damage occur due to drastic and uncontrollable rotation speed
Solution Approach 1:
The brake mechanism provides continuous feedback-based speed regulation during cable retraction. As the spool rotates, the brake engages proportionally to the rotation speed, creating a self-regulating system that prevents drastic rotation and ensures controlled, tangle-free cable storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the retraction process by introducing frictional or magnetic resistance through the brake mechanism. This modifies the speed and force parameters of cable retraction, transforming the uncontrollable drastic rotation into a controlled, gradual process that prevents tangling and damage.
3Strength
If protective cases are made stronger to protect against breakage, then device protection is improved, but the cases become bulkier and less aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material construction for the protective case, combining multiple materials with different properties. This allows the case to achieve high strength and protection against breakage while maintaining a compact, aesthetically pleasing form factor. The composite structure optimizes both protective performance and visual appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective case integrates multiple functions including cable storage, cable protection through the brake mechanism, and device protection. This multi-functionality allows the case to provide comprehensive protection without requiring excessive bulk, as each component serves multiple purposes.
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 system safely retracts and stores earphones/earbuds, reducing cable damage and tangling, while providing additional functionalities such as signal amplification and accessory storage, enhancing user convenience and device protection.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-biased spool and damping pads to control the retraction speed
Implementation Method 2
a friction-based braking system for earphone/earbud cables
Implementation Method 3
damping pads to control the retraction speed
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system for a handheld electronic device includes a housing member and a storage compartment. The housing member is configured to receive and secure the handheld electronic device. The storage compartment is integrated with the housing member. The storage compartment secures an item and is a tubular in shape and is configured to retain the item. The item is at least one of a lip balm, lipstick, lip gloss cigarette, and e-cigarette. Preferably, the housing member is formed from an elastic material allowing the storage compartment to adjust in a size or shape to retain the item. Preferably, the storage compartment is monolithically constructed.