Rotating Side Cover for Foldable Device Hinge Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective cases for foldable mobile devices struggle to provide full protection, especially for the hinge part, due to shape transitions and inadequate fitting, leading to gaps and incomplete coverage.
Innovation Solution
A folding case design comprising a first case, a second case, and a side cover that rotates around a rotation axis, with an elastic part providing a return force to ensure the side cover covers the hinge part smoothly, even during shape transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a protective case is designed to cover the hinge part of a foldable mobile device, then the protection coverage is improved, but the case becomes difficult to install and maintain smooth operation during folding/unfolding transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The side cover is designed to rotate around a rotation axis, transforming from a static protective component to a dynamic one that adapts its position based on the folding state of the mobile device. This rotational movement allows the side cover to maintain continuous contact with the hinge part throughout the folding and unfolding transitions, ensuring consistent protection while moving smoothly with the device's shape changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective case is divided into separate components: a first case, a second case, and a rotatable side cover. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, with the side cover specifically tasked with protecting the hinge part through rotation, while the main case bodies protect the display surfaces. This division resolves the conflict between comprehensive coverage and smooth operation.
2Reliability
If an elastic linear protective component is used to connect two case parts, then some protection is provided, but the component does not fit tightly to the hinge part, leaving gaps and insufficient coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The side cover rotates around a fixed rotation axis, dynamically adjusting its position to maintain tight contact with the hinge part throughout the folding range. This rotational mechanism ensures that the side cover adapts to the changing geometry of the hinge area, eliminating gaps and providing precise fitting that a static elastic component cannot achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation axis acts as an intermediary element that enables the side cover to pivot and maintain optimal contact with the hinge part. This intermediary mechanism allows the side cover to follow the contour of the hinge area precisely, ensuring tight fitting and complete coverage without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
3Strength
If the case structure is made rigid to provide stable protection, then the protection strength is improved, but the case cannot accommodate the shape transitions of the foldable device
Solution Approach 1:
The side cover is designed as a dynamic component that rotates around a rotation axis, allowing it to adapt its position as the foldable device transitions between folded and unfolded states. This rotational freedom enables the case to maintain its protective strength while accommodating the changing shape of the device, resolving the conflict between rigidity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The case is segmented into rigid main bodies for stable protection and a rotatable side cover for adaptive hinge protection. This segmentation allows the majority of the case structure to maintain its strength and stability, while the side cover provides the necessary adaptability to follow the hinge part's movement during folding and unfolding transitions.
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 comprehensive protection for the entire foldable mobile device, including its corners, with a seamless and gap-free coverage of the hinge part, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic part which provides an elastic force for the side cover to return to the first position
Data Source
AI summary
A protective case for foldable mobile devices is described. The folding case comprises a first case and a second case, wherein the folding case further comprises a side cover which rotates by an elastic part as the foldable mobile device is folded or unfolded, and provides a full protection for the entire foldable mobile device including each corner of its hinge part. The folding case according to the present invention covers the hinge part smoothly without any unfavorable space or gap, and it provides the satisfaction with the use and the beauty of the overall appearance as the users would conceive that the two separated case parts and the hinge part operates as if those parts form one united case.