Universal Protective Frame with Integrated Charging Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable computing devices, such as tablets, are fragile and prone to damage during falls, necessitating a protective solution that adapts to various device dimensions and safeguards sensitive connectors while minimizing maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A protective frame with four sections and corner pieces that form uprights and crosspieces, featuring a universal connector system allowing secure attachment to the device and charging base, ensuring an unremovable and invisible connection, and incorporating USB or Lightning connectors for power supply, with an electric charging base compatible with both vertical and horizontal surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a protective frame is designed to fit specific device dimensions, then the protection is customized, but the adaptability to different device types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The protective frame is divided into four independent sections (uprights and crosspieces) that can be separately adjusted and connected. This segmentation allows the frame to be configured to match different device dimensions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, as each section can be independently optimized rather than redesigning the entire frame for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow it to dynamically adapt to different device sizes and shapes. The connecting means enable the frame sections to be assembled in various configurations, providing versatility without requiring multiple specialized frame designs.
2Reliability
If connectors are exposed on the device, then connectivity is accessible, but the risk of damage to sensitive connector areas increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is integrated within the protective frame structure, specifically positioned in the lower crosspiece. This nesting approach allows the connector to be protected from physical damage while remaining accessible for charging operations, as the frame itself becomes part of the protective enclosure rather than an external add-on.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective frame and connector assembly are merged into a single integrated unit. The connector is built into the frame structure, combining the protective function with the connectivity function in one component, thereby eliminating the need for separate protective cases or covers for the connector.
3Ease of repair
If the entire device is replaced upon damage, then reliability is maintained, but maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The protective frame is designed as a separate, replaceable component that can be independently replaced without affecting the main device. This segmentation allows users to replace only the damaged frame section rather than the entire device, significantly reducing maintenance costs while maintaining reliability through the protective function.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed as a consumable protective element that can be easily replaced when damaged. This approach allows the main device to be preserved and recovered while the inexpensive frame replacement absorbs the maintenance cost, rather than requiring replacement of the entire expensive device.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a universal connector is designed, then compatibility with all device types is achieved, but the precision for specific device dimensions may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with universal dimensions and mounting features that allow it to be integrated into frames of various sizes and configurations. The lower crosspiece incorporates the connector in a standardized manner that works across different device types, achieving multi-functionality without sacrificing the ability to provide precise protection for each specific device.
Data Source
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AI summary
The protective device (1) for a portable computing device (14) comprising a screen includes a protective frame (2) that can be positioned around the screen (15) of the computing device (14) and a charging base (8) for the computing device (14) that can be connected at least to the mains and on which the protective frame (2) is suitable for placement, said protective frame (2) comprising four profiles (3), including two cross members, four corner pieces (4) and means (5) for connecting the corner pieces (4) and the profiles (3) to each other to allow a non-removable connection, the profiles (3) and the corner pieces (4) being longitudinally split to define a groove (9) into which a portion of the peripheral edge of the screen (15) of the computing device (14) is suitable for insertion and the lower cross member (33) of the frame (2) comprising a connector (10),with a complementary part (100) of a connector (11) equipping the electrical charging base (8) and a part (101) connectable to the computer device (14).