Semirigid Board Case for Variable Volume and Collapsed Bulk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable electronic device cases maintain the same external dimensions whether they are empty or contain a device, which is undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A portable device case with semirigid boards that can change configuration from bowed to flat, allowing the case to expand and collapse, providing sufficient interior space for a device while optimizing external dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional cases maintain fixed external dimensions, then structural simplicity is achieved, but space efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The case employs dynamic walls with semirigid boards that can transition between bowed and flat configurations, allowing the case volume to change from expanded to collapsed states. This dynamic structure resolves the contradiction by enabling volume adjustment without requiring a completely complex mechanism, as the semirigid boards provide inherent structural stability in both states.
Solution Approach 2:
The case utilizes parameter changes in the wall configuration, specifically the bowing state of semirigid boards, to transform the case volume. By changing the geometric parameter (bowed vs. flat configuration), the case achieves variable volume while maintaining structural integrity, thus resolving the contradiction between volume efficiency and structural simplicity.
2Volume of moving object
If the case collapses when empty, then space efficiency is improved, but structural stability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The case dynamically adjusts its stability characteristics based on its state. In the collapsed state, the semirigid boards maintain sufficient stability for portability, while in the expanded state, the same structure provides adequate stability for device protection. The dynamic nature allows the case to have context-appropriate stability without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The case employs semirigid boards that exhibit flexible yet stable characteristics. These boards can bend into bowed configurations for expansion while maintaining enough rigidity to provide structural stability in both collapsed and expanded states, resolving the contradiction between volume reduction and stability maintenance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If semirigid boards are used for configuration change, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The case achieves adaptability through parameter changes in the semirigid board configuration (bowed vs. flat) rather than through complex mechanical mechanisms. This approach improves adaptability while keeping manufacturing relatively simple, as the semirigid boards can be manufactured in standard configurations and then assembled into the case structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The case utilizes composite construction with semirigid boards combined with other materials to achieve the desired adaptability. The semirigid boards provide the configuration change capability, while the composite structure simplifies manufacturing by integrating multiple functions into unified components, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and manufacturing ease.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are involved with but are not limited to a first side and a second side and a first wall extending between the first side and the second side, the first wall including a first semirigid board with a first bowed configuration and a first flat configuration. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.