Protective Case with Compressible Member and Catch for Shock Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile electronic communication devices face damage from physical abuse and liquid exposure due to their portable nature and sensitive electronics, with existing housings compromising structural integrity for aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A protective case with a compressible member and catch system, featuring an alcove and rim configuration that provides shock and liquid resistance, using materials like liquid silicone rubber for enhanced sealing and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the housing is designed with aesthetic finishes, then the appearance is improved, but the structural integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The protective case is divided into two distinct segments: an outer housing with aesthetic finishes and an inner structural frame providing strength. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill its specific function without compromise - the outer housing maintains appearance while the inner frame provides structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective case employs composite construction by combining different materials - the outer housing uses materials optimized for aesthetics while the inner frame uses materials optimized for strength and protection. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between appearance and structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the device is made portable, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to physical abuse and liquid exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The protective case incorporates shock-absorbing materials and cushioning elements positioned strategically throughout the structure before any physical abuse occurs. This beforehand cushioning protects the portable device from drops and impacts while maintaining its portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective case uses flexible sealing elements and thin film barriers that conform to the device shape while providing liquid resistance. These flexible components maintain the portable nature of the device while protecting against liquid exposure.
3Reliability
If the compressible member is compressed, then the seal is improved, but the volume increases due to material displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The compressible member is designed with non-uniform cross-section where the enlarged portion is positioned to accommodate material displacement during compression. This local quality variation allows the seal to improve through compression while the enlarged portion absorbs the volume increase locally without affecting the overall case dimensions.
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 protective case effectively absorbs shocks, prevents liquid ingress, and maintains structural integrity while allowing for improved sound quality and aesthetics, providing comprehensive protection for mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
the inner surface of the rim is configured to compress the projection portion of the compressible member when the rear cover is coupled to the front cover
Data Source
AI summary
A protective case for a mobile electronic communication device includes a rear cover including a compressible member and a catch, the compressible member and the catch being spaced from each other to form an alcove; and a front cover including a rim configured to extend into the alcove, the rim having an inner surface configured to contact the compressible member and an outer surface opposite the inner surface configured to engage the catch.