Self-Supporting Book With Segmented Cover And Flexible Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional books are difficult to hold open on a flat surface due to stiff bindings, and existing solutions either weaken the cover or lack structural rigidity, failing to provide a secure and stable propping mechanism for hands-free reading.
Innovation Solution
A self-supporting book design featuring a front cover with a flexible joint, a back cover connected to a spine, and a third cover with a stabilizing sheet, allowing the book to be propped up securely with a built-in bookstand, utilizing elastic members or hook-and-loop fasteners for stability, and accommodating various orientations for reading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional stiff bindings are used in books, then the book structure is simple and durable, but the book cannot be held open stably on a flat surface
Solution Approach 1:
The book cover is divided into multiple segments including a front cover, back cover, and at least one folding member that can rotate relative to the covers. This segmentation allows the folding member to independently adjust and prop the book open at various angles while the main covers remain structurally simple and durable.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a folding member is added to prop the book up, then the book can be held open, but the cover and binding are weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The folding member is designed with specific local properties - it has a first portion attached to the front cover and a second portion that folds back to engage with the front cover or binding. The folding member includes reinforcement elements or is made of material with appropriate flexibility and strength characteristics that allow it to provide propping capability without compromising the overall strength of the cover and binding assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hook and loop fasteners are used for propping, then the book can be secured at various angles, but the connection lacks structural rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The solution combines multiple propping mechanisms: the folding member provides mechanical support through its folded structure, while hook and loop fasteners or elastic members provide additional securing capability. This merging of mechanical support with flexible fastening systems creates a hybrid structure that achieves both angle adjustability and structural rigidity, as the folded portions provide geometric stability while the fasteners prevent slippage.
Data Source
AI summary
A book has a front cover having a first edge which is unconnected, and an opposing second edge which is connected to a spine. A back cover has a first edge which is connected to the spine and an opposing second edge which is connected to flexible joint or fold-line. The book has a third cover having a first edge which is connected to the flexible joint, that couples the third cover to the back cover, and an opposing second edge which is connected to binding. The front cover is configured to fold back about the spine to retain the third cover proximal the outer edge of the third cover to retain the book in a propped-up position for reading. A page holder slides along the left and right sides of the third cover and has an opening that allows a page to be pushed therethrough.