Bi-stable Spring Band Gripping Element for Thin Portable Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Portable computing device covers often become bulky due to additional features like kickstands or handles, compromising the device's thin form factor and stability during use.
Innovation Solution
A selectively deployable gripping element with a bi-stable spring band that curls into a ring shape, integrated with a cover or case, allowing adjustable positioning and secure attachment to the device without increasing bulkiness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If additional features like kickstands or handles are added to the cover, then the device stability and ease of operation are improved, but the device bulkiness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping element is divided into multiple segments that can flex and curl independently, allowing the structure to form a secure ring grip without requiring a thick overall cover. The segmented design enables the gripping element to achieve functional complexity while maintaining thin profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping element is designed as a dynamic, flexible component that can curl and flex to conform to the device shape and provide a secure grip. The bi-stable spring band material allows the element to transition between deployed and retracted states, providing functionality without permanent bulk.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a secure gripping mechanism is implemented, then the device stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping element utilizes the natural flexibility and elasticity of the bi-stable spring band material to automatically curl and form a secure ring grip when deployed. The locking mechanism engages automatically when the opposing ends are brought together, providing secure attachment without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping element changes its physical state between a flat retracted position and a curled ring position through the bi-stable spring band material. This parameter change allows the same component to provide secure gripping functionality without adding permanent structural complexity to the device.
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
Enhances user comfort and stability by providing a secure grip while maintaining a thin form factor, allowing for adjustable positioning and hands-free use without adding bulk to the device.
Implementation Method 1
A selectively deployable gripping element with a bi-stable spring band that curls into a ring shape
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for a gripping device for a portable computing device according to various aspects of the present technology may include a selectively deployable gripping element. A center section of the gripping element may be connected to the portable computing device by a gripping element retainer. The gripping element comprises opposing ends that extend away from the center section in a first position and curl inwards towards the center section and the gripping element retainer in a second position to form a ring. The opposing ends may comprise a locking mechanism configured to retain the opposing ends in the second position. The gripping element and the gripping element retainer may also be integrated with a cover or case configured to fit around the portable computing device.