Reversible Case Panel Assembly for Electronic Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing case constructions for electronic devices, such as tablet computers, lack the ability to provide reversible and adjustable protection and display options that accommodate varying device sizes and orientations, while also offering enhanced visual and tactile experiences.

Innovation Solution

A reversible case construction featuring a device-holding mechanism with a multi-layer, multi-section panel assembly that allows for selective display of differing materials, incorporating magnetic layers for enhanced closure and adjustable orientations, enabling users to choose preferred visual properties and support the device in various positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a basic case construction is used to protect the electronic device, then protection function is provided, but visual display functionality and adjustable orientations are lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay functionalityVSAvoidcase structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The case is divided into a base portion and a reversible panel assembly that can be independently rotated and positioned. The panel assembly includes multiple sections that can be selectively oriented to provide different display surfaces, allowing the case to adapt to various viewing preferences without requiring multiple separate cases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reversible panel assembly incorporates rotational joints and pivot points that allow dynamic repositioning of display surfaces. The panel can be rotated between multiple fixed orientations (e.g., landscape, portrait, angled views) enabling the case to adapt to different usage scenarios and user preferences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed case structure is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but adjustment to different device sizes and orientations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice size accommodationVSAvoidcase construction
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The base portion is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple device sizes and types. The reversible panel assembly can be configured in different orientations and positions to suit various device dimensions, allowing a single case design to serve multiple devices without requiring custom manufacturing for each device size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

By separating the case into a fixed base portion and a modular reversible panel assembly, the design allows the base to maintain simple universal dimensions while the panel provides adaptable configuration options. This segmentation enables straightforward manufacturing of the base while allowing customization through panel arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple decorative case materials are provided for selective orientation, then visual appeal is enhanced, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual display optionsVSAvoidpanel assembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple decorative panel sections with different materials or finishes are merged into a single reversible panel assembly. These sections are attached to common mounting structures that allow the entire assembly to be rotated as one unit, providing multiple visual faces without requiring separate cases for each material option.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The reversible panel assembly uses rotational mechanisms with defined stopping positions that allow each decorative face to be oriented toward the viewer. The dynamic rotation capability enables selective presentation of different materials while maintaining a unified structural approach rather than requiring separate static cases for each material type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 solution provides effective protection and adjustable display options for electronic devices, accommodating different sizes and orientations, while enhancing the visual appeal and usability through magnetic attraction and pivotable designs, thus addressing the limitations of prior art.

Implementation Method 1

The interface and encasing magnetic material layers are substantially parallel and opposed and magnetically attractive to one another when the reversible case construction is in a closed configuration for generally enhancing the closed condition of the reversible case construction.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS9462864B2Reversible case for an electronic device
Publication Date: 2016.10.11 WORLD RICHMAN MANUFACTURING CORP
  • US9462864B2 patent drawing
  • US9462864B2 patent drawing
  • US9462864B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A reversible case construction encases an electronic device and enables a user to selectively display an outer case material. The reversible case construction includes a device-holding mechanism, and a multi-layer, multi-section device-concealing panel assembly. The device-holding mechanism is sized and shaped to removably receive an electronic device. The device-concealing panel assembly includes first and second material portions. The first and second material portions each include outer surfacing, a panel assembly-to-holder interface section, an interface-cover section, and a device-encasing section. The interface-cover sections and device-encasing sections are attached to one another for providing a reversible panel assembly. The reversible panel assembly is pivotal relative to the device-holding mechanism. Thus, the first and second material portions are selectively presentable for displaying the outer case material.