Spring Element Cover for Portable Device Grip
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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 spring element integrated with a cover that can be adjusted to form a ring shape, allowing for improved grip and orientation of the device without increasing bulk, featuring a bi-stable spring band and rotatable retainer for customizable fit and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If additional features like kickstands or handles are added to the cover, then device stability and ease of holding are improved, but the cover thickness and bulkiness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element transitions between a first position (reducing profile) and a second position (providing gripping surface), making the cover's structure dynamic rather than static. This allows the cover to adapt its form based on usage needs, providing stability when required while maintaining slimness when not in use
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is divided into multiple coils that can independently compress and expand, allowing localized deformation to provide gripping surfaces without requiring the entire cover to thicken. Each coil segment contributes to the overall gripping function while maintaining the cover's thin profile
2Ease of operation
If additional features like kickstands or handles are added to the cover, then ease of holding is improved, but the cover thickness and bulkiness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides a dynamic gripping surface that can be deployed when needed and retracted when not needed, allowing the user to easily hold the device when the spring is in its expanded second position while maintaining a slim profile when collapsed to the first position
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as a flexible structure that can deform to provide ergonomic gripping surfaces without requiring thick rigid materials. The flexible nature of the spring allows it to conform to user's hand while maintaining minimal thickness in its compressed state
3Stability of the object's composition
If a spring element is deployed to provide gripping surface, then device stability and ease of holding are improved, but the device profile increases when spring is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element dynamically changes its configuration between a compressed first position (minimal profile) and an expanded second position (providing gripping surface). This dynamic transformation allows the device to maintain a slim profile during storage or transport while providing enhanced grip stability when actively used
Solution Approach 2:
When the spring element is in its compressed first position, it nests within the cover's existing structure, minimizing the overall device profile. The spring coils are contained within the cover thickness, allowing the device to maintain its slim form factor when the gripping feature is not actively deployed
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 device stability while maintaining a slim form factor, enabling secure grip and hands-free use with adjustable loop size and orientation options.
Implementation Method 1
A bi-stable spring band may be used for the gripping element. The spring element may include a top surface, a bottom surface, and a center section
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 spring element. A center section of the spring element may be connected to the portable computing device by a spring retainer. The spring element comprises opposing ends that extend away from the center section in a first position and curl inwards towards the center section and the spring retainer in a second position to form a ring. The spring retainer may be configured to rotate with respect to the portable computing device to allow the ring to be adjusted according to a desired use. The spring element and the spring retainer may also be integrated with a cover configured to fit around the portable computing device.