Pivot Panel Case Construction for Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing case constructions for electronic devices, such as tablets and mobile phones, lack the ability to easily switch between landscape and portrait orientations while providing stable support and protection, and do not allow for easy flat positioning.
Innovation Solution
A case construction with a device-holding cradle and a multi-section panel assembly that includes static and dynamic panel portions, anchored via flexible material layers or living hinges, allowing for pivotable support in various orientations and retention using magnetic or snap-fit mechanisms for flat positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a basic case construction is used to protect and enclose the electronic device, then protection is provided, but the ability to selectively display the device in different orientations (landscape/portrait) is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The case is divided into multiple panel sections (first panel, second panel, third panel) that can independently pivot relative to each other. This segmentation allows the case to adapt to different orientations by adjusting individual panels without requiring complete structural redesign, thus providing orientation versatility while keeping each panel's structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The case incorporates pivot points and movable connections between panels, transforming the static case structure into a dynamic one. The panels can rotate and adjust to different angles, enabling the device to be displayed in various orientations (landscape, portrait, angled positions) while maintaining protection. This dynamic capability adds versatility without significantly increasing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pivotable panels are added to enable orientation switching, then adaptability is improved, but the stability and secure support of the device may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The case design includes pre-defined pivot points and hinge mechanisms that are built into the structure before use. These preliminary structural features ensure that when panels are moved to different orientations, they do so along predetermined paths with proper support, maintaining stability throughout the transition and at each position. The magnetic retention features are also pre-positioned to engage at specific angles, ensuring stable support.
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic retention features act as intermediaries between the panels and the device, providing secure holding force at pivot points. These magnetic elements enable the panels to be held firmly in different orientations without requiring complex mechanical locking mechanisms, thus maintaining stability while allowing easy orientation changes. The magnetic force provides continuous support throughout the range of motion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple panel sections are used for orientation adjustment, then versatility is improved, but the ease of operation and flat positioning becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic retention features are strategically positioned to automatically engage when panels are moved to desired positions, including the flat position. This self-servicing mechanism eliminates the need for manual locking or complex adjustment procedures. When the case is closed or panels are positioned flat, the magnetic forces automatically hold them in place, making operation simple and intuitive while maintaining versatility for different display positions.
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
Enables secure and versatile orientation adjustment of electronic devices, including landscape, portrait, and flat display positions, while providing protection and easy handling.
Implementation Method 1
The case construction may further comprise a magnetic retention feature for magnetically retaining the multi-section panel assembly in engagement with the device-holding cradle for enabling flat positioning of the device-holding cradle
Data Source
AI summary
A case construction selectively encases and displays an electronic device, and includes a device-holding cradle and multi-section panel assembly attachable to the device-holding cradle. The device-holding cradle is sized and shaped to removably receive an electronic device, and provides an anterior device-receiving section and a posterior panel assembly interface. The posterior panel interface includes an anchor portion for attaching the panel assembly thereto and seat portion in adjacency to the anchor portion for allowing dynamic panel portions to rest thereupon. An attachment mechanism operates to attach the multi-section panel assembly to the device-receiving cradle such that a pair of panel portions from the four panel portions are pivotal about a select one of two pivot axes for supporting the device-holding cradle in either a landscape or portrait orientation angled display position relative to a support surface. The pivot axes are enabled by way of flexible material interconnecting opposed panel portions.