Retractable Screen Wipe Case for Quick Mobile Device Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for cleaning mobile electronic device screens and eyeglasses are not sufficiently convenient, practical, or effective.
Innovation Solution
A portable cleaning case with a built-in reusable screen wipe and retracting apparatus that allows for easy access and automatic or manual retraction, ensuring the wipe is always accessible for cleaning and can be securely stored when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cleaning cloth is stored in a case with a cavity or separate carrying case, then the cleaning cloth can be carried conveniently, but the cleaning cloth is not easily accessible for immediate cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning cloth is extracted from a closed storage compartment and positioned to extend through an opening in the case, allowing the free end to be accessed from outside the case while the bulk remains stored inside. This enables immediate access to the cleaning cloth without requiring to open a separate compartment or case.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning cloth is nested within the case structure, with the cloth stored in an internal compartment and extending through an opening in the case body. This allows the cleaning system to be integrated into the case itself rather than requiring a separate carrying case.
2Extent of automation
If a cleaning bar automatically wipes the screen when the device is opened or closed, then the cleaning action is automated, but the cleaning mechanism obstructs the screen and requires complex mechanical structures
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning cloth is extracted from a mechanical automatic wiping mechanism and replaced with a manually accessible cloth that extends through the case. This eliminates the need for complex mechanical structures, tracks, and motor-driven components while maintaining the cleaning function.
Solution Approach 2:
The user manually accesses and uses the cleaning cloth that extends from the case, eliminating the need for automatic activation mechanisms. The cleaning system serves itself by being permanently accessible rather than requiring automated deployment and retraction.
3Reliability
If a wipe is placed in direct static contact with the device screen when the cover is closed, then the screen is continuously cleaned, but the wipe obstructs access to the screen and device features
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is segmented into a stored portion within the case and an accessible free end extending through an opening. This allows the cleaning cloth to be separated into functional zones: stored for protection and manual control, and extended for accessible use without obstructing the screen.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning cloth transitions from a static position inside the case to a dynamic state where it can be manually extended and retracted through an opening. This allows the cloth to be accessible when needed while not obstructing the screen or device features when not in use.
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
Provides a convenient, practical, and effective means to clean device screens without obstructing device features or aesthetics, ensuring the wipe is always available for use and easily storable.
Implementation Method 1
In a preferred form, the retracting apparatus retracts the wipe automatically, for example under spring or elastic tension.
Implementation Method 2
In a currently preferred form, the retracting apparatus is a spring-tensioned reel.
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning case for a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone or tablet computer. The case is adapted to be secured to or receive a lower side or face of the electronic device, and includes a housing with a wipe storage compartment for a reusable screen wipe. The wipe can be pulled from the storage compartment in a flat sheet configuration through a slot in the housing, up and around the housing and device mounted thereon, in order to clean the screen of the device. The housing further includes a retraction means for retracting the wipe back into the storage compartment after use. The case may also be formed integrally with the electronic device.