Portable Computing Device Case With Segmented Spine Member

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing portable electronic computing devices lack a robust and versatile design that allows for easy coupling and uncoupling of device portions, such as a display and keyboard, while providing structural integrity and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a first and second case section, each configured to receive a device portion, and a spine member that connects them, made from different materials and structures to allow for flexibility and stability, with elongated openings for accommodating various device configurations and a handle for convenient handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If device portions are hingedly couplable to allow flexible configuration, then adaptability is improved, but structural integrity may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice configuration flexibilityVSAvoidstructural integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The case is divided into multiple case sections that can be separately coupled and uncoupled. Each case section can independently receive different device portions, allowing the system to be segmented into functional modules that maintain structural integrity when connected while providing adaptability when separated.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism between case sections is designed to be dynamic, allowing transitions between coupled and uncoupled states. This enables the structure to adapt its configuration based on usage requirements while maintaining strength when in the coupled state through proper mechanical engagement features.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If device portions are separately uncouplable for ease of use, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling and uncoupling convenienceVSAvoidcase structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple case sections are merged into an integrated case assembly that functions as a unified structure when coupled. The coupling mechanism combines the case sections with simple mechanical features that ease operation while avoiding complex assembly requirements, maintaining simplicity despite the modular design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If different materials are used for case sections and spine member, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvematerial selection flexibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The case assembly utilizes composite construction with different materials for case sections and spine member. This allows optimization of each component for its specific function while using standardized manufacturing processes for joining dissimilar materials, managing complexity through proven composite construction techniques.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS11297919B1Case for portable electronic computing device

Publication Date: 2022.04.12 PIONEER SQUARE BRANDS INC

AI summary

Systems and methods are involved for a portable electronic computing device the system includes (I) a first case section to receive a first device portion, (II) a second case section to receive a second device portion, and (III) a spine member being coupled to the first case section, the spine member being coupled to the second case section, the spine member including at least one elongated opening extending generally parallel with a side of the first case section.