Slidable Device Members Bridge Ergonomic Spacing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Compact handheld electronic devices often compromise user comfort due to the close proximity of input/output elements, making it difficult for users to access and utilize the device effectively.

Innovation Solution

A handheld electronic device design featuring slidable device members and a bridge that allows the device to transition between a closed and spaced-apart position, providing non-zero spacing between input/output elements for improved user accessibility and ergonomic use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the device is made compact to improve portability, then the device size is reduced, but the input/output elements become close together making it difficult for users to access and use the device effectively

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice sizeVSAvoiduser accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic structure where two device members can slide relative to each other along a bridge between a closed position (compact) and a spaced-apart position (expanded). This dynamic configuration allows the device to transition between compact storage mode and expanded usage mode, resolving the contradiction between compactness and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes spatial reconfiguration by moving device members along a bridge structure, effectively using the spatial dimension to separate input and output elements when needed. This dimensional approach allows compact arrangement when members overlap while enabling adequate spacing for user comfort when members are positioned apart.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of moving object

If the device members are positioned close together for compactness, then the device is portable, but users experience neck strain when viewing displays while inputting information

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice compactnessVSAvoiduser strain

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The slidable bridge mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the distance between display and input elements. Users can position the device members at optimal distances to maintain comfortable viewing and typing angles, eliminating neck strain while preserving compactness when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the spatial parameter (distance between device members) based on usage requirements. By adjusting the separation distance between members containing display and input elements, the system optimizes ergonomic parameters to reduce user strain during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8103322B2Handheld electronic device having two device members slidable relative to a bridge

Publication Date: 2012.01.24 MALIKIE INNOVATIONS LTD

AI summary

In a particular embodiment there is provided a handheld electronic device, comprising a bridge, a first device member having a first i/o element thereon and a second device member having a second i/o element thereon. The first and second device members are slidable relative to the bridge between a closed position for the handheld electronic device and a spaced-apart position for the handheld electronic device. In the closed position the first and second device members overlap such that the first device member blocks access to the second i/o element. In the spaced-apart position the second i/o element is accessible and the first and second device members are spaced apart by a selected non-zero spacing.