Smartphone Case with Integrated Makeup Compartment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smartphone cases do not provide a convenient and integrated solution for users to apply makeup while using their phone, particularly in 'selfie' mode, as they lack a dedicated compartment for makeup items and a functional way to utilize the phone's camera for mirror purposes.
Innovation Solution
A smartphone case with an openable compartment behind the phone that slides or pivots to expose makeup receptacles, allowing the phone's camera to be used as a mirror and enabling easy access and application of makeup items like lip paint and brushes, with the option to refill or replace contents by disconnecting the rear cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated makeup compartment is added to the phone case, then makeup storage and application functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the phone case with a dedicated makeup compartment into a single integrated unit. The compartment is built into the case structure with receptacles for makeup items, allowing simultaneous storage of phone and makeup products. This merging eliminates the need for separate storage containers and provides dedicated space for makeup application while protecting the phone.
Solution Approach 2:
The phone case is designed to serve multiple functions: protecting the phone, storing makeup items, and providing a mirror for application. The compartment can hold various makeup products (lipstick, eyeshadow, etc.) and the entire assembly acts as a portable makeup kit that is universally applicable to different phone models while providing specialized makeup storage and application functionality.
2Ease of operation
If the compartment is made openable to access makeup items, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compartment is designed as a separate, movable section within the phone case. It can be opened independently from the main case body, allowing users to access makeup items without removing the phone or opening the entire case. The compartment is divided into multiple receptacles for different makeup products, and this segmented design allows for easy access while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The compartment incorporates a hinged or movable connection to the case body, allowing it to open and close dynamically. This dynamic element enables users to access makeup items on demand while maintaining a compact closed form factor. The hinge mechanism provides smooth, easy operation without requiring complex locking systems or multiple steps to access the makeup items.
3Ease of operation
If the phone camera is positioned for selfie mode, then ease of operation for makeup application is improved, but the phone's primary photography function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The phone camera is designed to serve dual purposes: traditional photography and makeup application mirror. In selfie mode, the camera provides real-time feedback for makeup application, and in normal mode, it functions for photography. The case design accommodates both functions by positioning the camera accessible from the front while maintaining full photography capability. The mirror function is achieved through the camera's front-facing sensor, which can be used for both self-portraits and makeup application guidance.
Data Source
AI summary
According to the invention there is provided a smart phone case (1) having formations to hold a smart phone in the case, a back (9) from which the formations extend forwards, an open or openable front for the display of the smart phone and an openable make-up compartment (8) connected to the case. The openable make-compartment (8) is arranged to be behind the smart phone when closed, the compartment having at least one forwards facing make-up receptacle (11), the compartment when open facing in the same direction as the display and presenting make-up for the user's use in the or each receptacle. When the compartment (8) is open the user can use the screen side camera of the smart phone to display her photograph as she applies make-up.