Rotating Body Linkage for Compact Mobile Device Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobile communication devices with large interface elements, such as touchscreens or graphical displays, face protection issues as these elements are constantly exposed and prone to scratches and damage, and existing designs often increase in size when opened, which is undesirable for users preferring a smaller form factor.
Innovation Solution
A mobile communication device design featuring first and second body members with a linkage mechanism that allows the device to maintain a compact size when opened, with the first member overlying the second member in both positions, providing protection to interface elements and allowing easy transition between closed and opened states without size increase.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single main body member houses the interface elements, then the device structure is simple, but the interface elements are constantly exposed and prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a first body member and a second body member, where the first member can rotate relative to the second member. This segmentation allows the interface elements on the first member to be protected when the device is closed, while maintaining accessibility when opened.
Solution Approach 2:
The first body member is positioned to overlay the second body member when closed, creating a nested configuration where the interface elements are housed within the overall device structure, protecting them from external damage.
2Reliability
If flip phone or clamshell devices are used to protect interface elements, then interface elements are protected when closed, but the device becomes larger when opened
Solution Approach 1:
The first body member is rotatably coupled to the second body member, allowing dynamic transition between closed and opened positions. This dynamic mechanism enables the device to maintain a compact form factor when closed while providing access to interface elements when opened, without permanently increasing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational movement of the first body member relative to the second body member utilizes angular displacement in a new dimension, allowing the device to transform from a compact closed state to an opened state without increasing the overall footprint or volume of the device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If touchscreen or graphical display covers entire surface, then interface elements are comprehensive, but they become scratched or dirty when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be closed when not in use, preliminarily protecting the interface elements from scratches and dirt before they are exposed. This preliminary protective action prevents damage accumulation during non-use periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The first body member acts as a flexible protective cover that can rotate to expose or shield the interface elements. This flexible mechanism provides physical protection similar to a shell, preventing direct contact between the interface elements and external harmful factors.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile communication device is provided which includes at least one hinge mechanism pivotably coupled to a top member and to a base member such that the top member can be moved between an opened and a closed position. In the closed position, display and/or interface elements may be inside the device and adjacent to the base member, thereby being inaccessible and protected. In the opened position, the display and/or interface elements may be accessible. A biasing mechanism may drive a portion of the movement between the opened and closed positions. The top member and the base member may be biased or restricted such that there is substantially no separation between the top member and the base member during movement between the opened and closed positions.