Smartphone Holster With Spring-Loaded Latches
Solution Overview
Problem
Current external holsters for smartphones do not offer an optimal combination of security and accessibility, often requiring users to re-grasp the phone after removal, increasing the likelihood of dropping it during handling and use.
Innovation Solution
A smart phone holder with two spring-loaded latches that securely attach to a protective case, allowing one-handed access through a combination of sliding and pivoting motions, enabling intuitive and secure attachment and detachment while displaying the phone case.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the phone is stored in a pocket or purse, then the phone is protected from damage, but the phone is not easily accessible and requires removing from the holder which increases the likelihood of dropping
Solution Approach 1:
The holster uses a dynamic retention mechanism where the phone is held securely during normal activities but can be quickly accessed by tilting the wrist. The retention spring and friction fit allow the phone to be retained firmly at rest while releasing easily when tilted, providing both protection and accessibility through motion-based release
2Reliability
If external holsters are designed for security, then the phone is held firmly, but they require re-gripping the phone after removal which increases the likelihood of dropping
Solution Approach 1:
The phone is pre-positioned in the holster with the screen facing outward and the top edge accessible, so that when the user tilts their wrist to access the phone, it naturally rotates into a graspable position. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for re-gripping as the phone is already oriented correctly for immediate use
3Adaptability or versatility
If protective cases with custom graphics are used, then the user's personal ideology is displayed, but these cases are concealed when stored in pockets or most holsters
Solution Approach 1:
The holster is designed to wear on the outside of clothing (typically on the belt or waistband), transitioning the phone storage from an internal pocket location to an external position. This dimensional change allows the protective case with custom graphics to be visible and displayed when the phone is in the holster, combining fashion expression with secure storage
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 provides reliable one-handed access and reduced likelihood of dropping the phone by allowing users to maintain a secure grip during use and easy reinsertion, while showcasing the phone case, enhancing handling and protection.
Implementation Method 1
The invention utilizes two spring-loaded latches on a holster that engage mating features in a protective phone case to securely attach the case to the holster
Data Source
AI summary
A smart phone holder assembly comprising a holster and a protective phone case. The holster includes two latch assemblies adapted to releasably engage with respective engagement members on the protective phone case thereby securely attaching and easily releasing the protective phone case from the holster. It is possible for the user to quickly, easily and securely engage and disengage the phone in its protective cover from the holster.