Smartphone Case with Multi-Hinged Stand and Concealed Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional protective cases for mobile devices are bulky and heavy, compromising their aesthetic appeal and functionality while failing to minimize bulkiness and weight while maintaining impact protection and versatility.

Innovation Solution

A non-intrusive mobile phone protective case featuring a hard outer shell, a flexible inner sheath, and a multi-hinged panel that can conceal a storage compartment and act as a stand, utilizing magnets and metal strips for retention, and flanges to prevent objects from falling out, while providing shock absorption and adjustable viewing angles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional protective casings are added to mobile devices, then impact protection is improved, but bulk and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpact protectionVSAvoidcase weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The protective case is divided into two distinct components: a rigid outer shell for impact protection and a flexible inner sheath for shock absorption. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while keeping the overall case lightweight and compact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The case combines rigid and flexible materials in a composite structure. The rigid body provides structural strength and impact resistance, while the flexible sheath material provides shock absorption and cushioning, achieving protection without excessive weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If conventional protective casings are added to mobile devices, then impact protection is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpact protectionVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible inner sheath is designed as a thin film that conforms to the contours of the mobile device, providing protection while maintaining the device's original aesthetic appearance. The sheath can be made from materials that match the device's finish and color.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional functional structures are added to the case, then versatility is improved, but bulk and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecase functionalityVSAvoidcase bulk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The hinged panel is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a cover for the storage compartment, provides structural reinforcement, and when folded, creates a stand for hands-free viewing. This multi-functionality adds versatility without requiring separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The storage compartment is integrated within the case structure itself, with the hinged panel forming part of the case body. The compartment nestles within the case's internal volume, utilizing otherwise wasted space rather than adding external bulk.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 minimizes bulk and weight while maintaining impact protection and enhancing functionality, offering a compact, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing protective case with a concealed storage compartment and adjustable stand functionality.

Implementation Method 1

an inner flexible sheath... The pliable body has a first cavity formed into a first side of the pliable body... adapted for receiving an electronic device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

magnets and metal strips may be associated with the hinged panel. The magnets and metal strips act together to retain the hinged panel in either a flat, concealing manner or a folded stand forming manner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS9768822B1Smart phone carrying case with stand
Publication Date: 2017.09.19 FOREVER HOLDINGS INC
  • US9768822B1 patent drawing
  • US9768822B1 patent drawing
  • US9768822B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A protective carrying case for a mobile electronic device is provided having a concealed storage compartment. The concealed compartment may store credit cards, identification cards and other personal articles. The case also includes an integrated stand that enables a user to prop the mobile device at a desired angle.