SIM Card Cradle via Manipulation Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing ID-1 Format data carriers for SIM cards, once their smaller form factors are used, become waste as they lack a structure for conversion into a cradle or holder for mobile communication devices, limiting their repurposing and contributing to waste generation.
Innovation Solution
A data carrier with pre-formed manipulation lines and a cutout design that allows it to be converted into a cradle by forming a stand, support portions, and a lip portion, enabling it to securely hold and support a mobile communication device for optimal viewing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the data carrier is made with fixed size and simple structure, then manufacturing cost is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but it cannot be converted into a cradle for mobile devices
Solution Approach 1:
The data carrier is divided into multiple sections by pre-formed manipulation lines that allow the card body to be bent and folded into different configurations. These manipulation lines create distinct segments (stand portion, support portions, lip portion) that can be independently positioned to form a functional cradle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulation lines are pre-formed during manufacturing, allowing the end user to easily convert the data carrier into a cradle by simply bending along these pre-defined lines. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex tools or techniques during conversion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the data carrier includes manipulation lines and cutout design for cradle conversion, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulation lines divide the card body into functional segments (stand portion, first support portion, second support portion, lip portion) that work together to form a stable cradle structure. Each segment has a specific function in supporting the mobile device.
Solution Approach 2:
The data carrier serves dual purposes: it functions as a standard SIM card carrier for its primary purpose, and can be converted into a mobile device cradle for secondary use. This multi-functionality reduces waste and increases versatility without requiring entirely separate products.
3Loss of substance
If the data carrier is converted into a cradle with stand and support portions, then waste reduction is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulation lines are incorporated into the card body during the original manufacturing process, so that the cradle conversion capability is built-in from the start. This eliminates the need for additional manufacturing steps or separate production processes for the cradle function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding the full-size data carrier after removing the smaller SIM card, the invention enables recovery and repurposing of the card body as a functional cradle. This extends the useful life of the material and reduces waste generation.
Data Source
AI summary
A data carrier including a SIM card may be converted into a cradle to support a mobile communications device after the SIM card is removed and inserted into the device. The card body includes first, second, and third manipulation lines extending across the card body. The card body may be manipulated about these manipulation lines to form a stand and cradle comprising a first support portion to support a rear surface of the mobile communications device, a second support portion mobile to support a side surface of the mobile communications device, and a lip portion that secures the mobile communications device within the cradle. The lip portion is shorter in length than either the first or second support portions to limit obstruction of a display for the mobile communications device when disposed within the cradle to facilitate viewing of the display.