Protective Case Integrating Smartphone and Satellite Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current solutions fail to integrate multiple communication devices, such as smartphones and satellite communication devices, into a single handheld unit without signal degradation or detuning, and do not provide a cost-effective way to utilize existing devices for combined cellular and satellite communication.

Innovation Solution

A protective case made of durable materials with strategically designed features to securely house both devices, ensuring the satellite communication device's antenna is not blocked by the user's hand, using a design that allows for easy attachment and detachment, and incorporates features like hinged faces and magnetic attachments to maintain device immobility and prevent signal interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple communication devices are integrated into a single handheld unit, then convenience is improved, but signal degradation and detuning occur

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveconvenienceVSAvoidsignal quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The protective case is divided into multiple compartments that physically separate different communication devices (smartphone and satellite communication device). This segmentation prevents signal interference between devices while maintaining their integrated operation in a single handheld unit, thus preserving both convenience and signal quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The case design incorporates specific placement zones for different devices with varying signal requirements. The satellite communication device is positioned in a location optimized for antenna performance and signal transmission, while the smartphone occupies a separate zone. This local optimization ensures each device operates with appropriate signal quality while integrated in one unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Volume of moving object

If communication devices are placed close together for compactness, then device size is reduced, but signal interference increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecase sizeVSAvoidsignal interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The compact case is internally segmented into distinct compartments for different communication devices. These partitions maintain minimal distance between devices for compactness while preventing electromagnetic signal interference through strategic positioning and physical separation, thus achieving both small size and signal isolation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The case utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to resolve the conflict between compactness and signal interference. By arranging devices at different positions and orientations within the case volume, the design achieves compact external dimensions while maintaining adequate signal transmission paths through optimized internal geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If the satellite communication device is secured in a fixed position, then signal stability is improved, but ease of attachment is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal stabilityVSAvoidease of attachment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The case incorporates dynamic attachment mechanisms such as snap-fit connectors, magnetic attachments, or removable compartments that allow easy attachment and detachment of the satellite communication device. When properly attached, these mechanisms provide stable positioning for signal reliability, while the attachment process itself remains simple and user-friendly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The case structure serves as an intermediary between the user and the satellite communication device. It provides a standardized interface with features like pre-configured mounting positions, alignment guides, and securement mechanisms that simplify attachment while ensuring the device is positioned optimally for stable signal transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9319087B1Protective case for coupling communication devices to a mobile device
Publication Date: 2016.04.19 COX III JAMES L
  • US9319087B1 patent drawing
  • US9319087B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A protective case sized and shaped to integrate a smartphone with a satellite communications device in a handheld form to conveniently allow communication both via the smartphone and the satellite communications device, with both devices arranged in the case so as to not detune the communications device is disclosed.