Portable Device Stand With Controlled Rotation and Magnetic Hold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stand systems for portable electronic devices lack a stable and versatile design that allows for adjustable positioning and secure attachment while maintaining a compact form factor, often compromising on rotational freedom and magnetic engagement.
Innovation Solution
A stand system comprising a column assembly with a rotatable and magnetically engaged foundational platform, featuring a tubular protrusion and cylindrical enclosure with a bearing assembly, which allows for adjustable positioning and secure attachment to a portable electronic device, while preventing full 360-degree rotation to maintain stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the column assembly allows full 360-degree rotation relative to the foundational platform, then rotational freedom is improved, but stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric geometric features including a semi-circular projection on the tubular protrusion and a corresponding protrusion on the cylindrical enclosure base. This asymmetric design permits rotation in one direction while mechanically blocking rotation in the opposite direction, achieving controlled rotational freedom (approximately 180 degrees) while maintaining stand stability through the anti-rotation constraint
2Strength
If magnets are embedded in both the foundational platform and column assembly for secure attachment, then attachment strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components: the magnets are embedded directly into the foundational platform and column assembly structures, merging the attachment function with the structural elements. This integration achieves strong magnetic engagement while minimizing additional complexity by avoiding separate attachment mechanisms
3Ease of operation
If a bearing assembly is introduced to separate the column assembly from the foundational platform by an airgap, then rotational smoothness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact between the column assembly and foundational platform with a bearing assembly that creates an airgap. This substitution enables smooth rotational movement through bearing elements while maintaining structural separation, achieving ease of operation despite the added assembly complexity
4Adaptability or versatility
If the stand system is designed with multiple components (column assembly, foundational platform, bearing assembly), then adaptability and positioning versatility are improved, but compact form factor deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the bearing assembly is positioned within the interior of the tubular protrusion, and the column assembly components are arranged to fit within the overall stand structure. This nesting approach enables multiple functional components to coexist in a compact configuration, maintaining positioning versatility while minimizing the overall form factor
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 provides a stable and adjustable stand for portable electronic devices, ensuring secure attachment and versatile positioning, while maintaining a compact form factor through magnetic engagement and controlled rotational movement.
Implementation Method 1
the bearing assembly separates the column assembly from the foundation platform assembly by an airgap
Implementation Method 2
the at least one magnet of the foundational platform engages with the at least one magnet of the column assembly when the column assembly is positioned in a first rotational position relative to the foundational platform
Data Source
AI summary
A stand system for a portable electronic device includes a column having a top end removably couplable to the portable electronic device; and a foundational platform, wherein the foundational platform is rotatably coupled to the column. Other aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.