Support device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional support devices for electronic devices are overly complex and prone to damage, making them difficult to use and maintain.

Innovation Solution

A support device with a simple structure featuring a base, a support frame, and torque fixing assemblies that allow the electronic device to switch between different use states by rotating along an axis, generating torque to adjust the display angle, and including locking and friction members to facilitate easy operation and durability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional support device structure is used, then the electronic device can be supported, but the structure becomes too complicated and is easily damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support device is divided into distinct functional modules: a base with first arc surface portion, a support frame with second arc surface portion, and torque fixing assemblies. Each module performs a specific function, allowing for simplified individual components that are easier to manufacture and less prone to damage while maintaining overall device functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention extracts and isolates the essential torque-generating function into separate torque fixing assemblies that include friction members, locking members, and elastic members. This separates the torque generation mechanism from the overall support structure, reducing complexity while maintaining durability through specialized, focused components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Ease of operation

If a conventional support device structure is used, then the electronic device can be supported, but the difficulty for users to operate the device increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational easeVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The torque fixing assemblies incorporate elastic members that automatically generate torque when the support frame rotates relative to the base. The friction members and locking members work together to provide automatic resistance and positioning without requiring user intervention, making the device easier to operate while maintaining a simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The support frame is designed to rotate dynamically along an axis relative to the base, allowing users to easily adjust the display angle. The torque fixing assemblies provide dynamic friction-based resistance during rotation and automatic locking at desired positions, enabling smooth operation without complex control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the support frame rotates to adjust display angle, then usability is improved, but structural complexity and damage risk increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay angle adjustmentVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base includes a first arc surface portion and the support frame includes a second arc surface portion that are curved to match each other. This curved surface design enables smooth rotational movement of the support frame along an axis, allowing display angle adjustment while maintaining simple contact geometry that reduces structural complexity and potential failure points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The torque fixing assemblies utilize friction-based torque generation that changes parameters during rotation. As the support frame rotates, the friction members generate torque that provides resistance and enables controlled adjustment of the display angle. The elastic members provide variable force based on compression, allowing smooth parameter changes without complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 support device provides a user-friendly and durable solution for adjusting the display angle of electronic devices, enhancing usability and extending the device's service life with a straightforward design.

Implementation Method 1

When the second arc surface portion slides relative to the first arc surface portion, the second arc surface portion rubs against the torque fixing assembly and torque is generated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

The elastic member is located between the first locking member and the second locking member and is used for pushing the first locking member and the second locking member to be separated from each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10470564B2Support device
Publication Date: 2019.11.12 COMPAL ELECTRONICS INC
  • US10470564B2 patent drawing
  • US10470564B2 patent drawing
  • US10470564B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A support device adapted to support an electronic device is provided. The electronic device has a display surface. The support device includes a base, a support frame, and at least one torque fixing assembly. The base includes a first arc surface portion. The support frame includes a second arc surface portion opposite to the first arc surface portion and an axis. The support frame rotates along the axis such that the second arc surface portion slides relative to the first arc surface portion and the electronic device switches between a first use state and a second use state. The torque fixing assembly is disposed at the first arc surface portion and the second arc surface portion. When the second arc surface portion slides relative to the first arc surface portion, the second arc surface portion rubs against the torque fixing assembly and torque is generated.