Spring-Loaded Mobile Case Stand for Stable Dual-Orientation Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile device cases either fail to provide a stable angle for hands-free viewing, require complex and time-consuming adjustments, or do not maintain the angle when the device is rotated from portrait to landscape orientation.
Innovation Solution
A protective case with a pull-out stand portion that maintains a predetermined angle of approximately 60 degrees when the mobile device is rotated from portrait to landscape orientation, utilizing a sliding plate and pivoting plate hinge mechanism supported by springs for stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stand portion is added to allow hands-free viewing, then viewing convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stand portion is nested within the case body, allowing it to be stored inside the case when not in use and deployed outward when needed. This nesting approach adds the stand functionality without significantly increasing the overall case volume or visual complexity, as the stand components are integrated into the existing case structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand portion is designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing users to rotate and position it at different angles. The spring mechanism provides dynamic tension to maintain the stand at various viewing angles. This dynamic design improves viewing convenience by allowing angle adjustment while keeping the stand mechanism relatively simple through the use of a single spring element.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple angle positions are provided for the stand, then viewing angle flexibility is improved, but device complexity and time to find suitable angle increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing discrete fixed angle positions with multiple stops or adjustment mechanisms, the stand is designed to be dynamically adjustable to any angle within a range. A single spring mechanism provides continuous tension, allowing the stand to be positioned at any desired angle without requiring complex multi-position locking systems. This reduces device complexity while maintaining viewing angle flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If a spring mechanism is used for the stand, then ease of deployment and retraction is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is designed to be self-regulating, where the natural tension of the spring provides the necessary force to hold the stand at various angles and to return it to the closed position. The spring's physical properties (coil diameter, wire thickness, number of turns) are designed to provide adequate tension without requiring precise calibration, as the stand's weight and geometry naturally work with the spring's elastic properties to achieve stable positioning.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the stand is designed to maintain a fixed angle, then viewing consistency is improved, but adaptability when rotating device orientation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The stand portion is designed to serve multiple functions: it can prop up the device at viewing angles in both portrait and landscape orientations. By allowing rotation around the hinge axis, the same stand mechanism adapts to different device orientations without requiring separate stand systems for each orientation. This universal design maintains viewing angle stability for each orientation while providing adaptability across orientations.
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
Enables stable and consistent hands-free viewing at a desired angle without requiring user repositioning, providing a convenient and stable viewing experience across orientations.
Implementation Method 1
a spring mechanism for easy deployment and retraction
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and/or systems related to a case for a mobile device. A protective case may include a stand portion which slides out to an open position for propping up the mobile device at a predetermined angle for viewing by a user. The stand portion has springs which hold the stand portion in the open position or a closed position. As the user switches the viewing orientation of the mobile device (e.g., by physically rotating the mobile device 90 degrees), the stand portion continues to prop up the mobile device at the predetermined angle.