Tablet Case Hinge With Stop For Multi-Orientation Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tablet computer cases do not allow users to easily switch between portrait and landscape viewing modes without holding the device, and often face interference issues with hinges or tabletops due to corner angles.
Innovation Solution
The use of a distinct hinge with a stop for rotational travel, friction hinges, and mechanisms like 4-bar linkages or tracks and protrusions to enable smooth rotation and centering of the tablet, preventing interference and enhancing stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple rotational holder design is used, then the device can be positioned for viewing, but the corner of the device interferes with the hinge or tabletop
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from simple rotational movement to a more complex multi-dimensional positioning mechanism using 4-bar linkages and tracks. This allows the holder to move along curved paths and achieve viewing positions without the device corner interfering with the hinge or tabletop surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism is divided into multiple independent components including 4-bar linkages, tracks, slots, and protrusions. Each component handles a specific aspect of the positioning task, allowing the device to be positioned without interference while maintaining ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device is held in hand for viewing, then viewing in any orientation is possible, but user fatigue occurs during extended use
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed to support the device independently without requiring user holding. The mechanical linkage system automatically maintains the device in the desired orientation, providing extended viewing comfort while preserving orientation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder uses dynamic mechanical linkages that can adapt to different viewing orientations while providing stable support. The 4-bar linkages and friction hinges allow the device to be positioned in various orientations without user intervention.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional soft flexible materials are used for the case, then the case can accommodate a hinge without separate parts, but the case cannot provide stable positioning for multiple orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the flexible material case with a separate rigid mechanical positioning system. The flexible case provides protection and hinge accommodation, while the added 4-bar linkages and tracks provide stable multi-orientation positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution uses composite construction combining flexible materials for the case body with rigid mechanical components for positioning. This allows the case to maintain ease of manufacture with integrated hinge while adding stable positioning through the mechanical linkage system.
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 users to view tablet screens in either mode without holding the device, reduces interference, and improves stability by centering the tablet, thus preventing tipping.
Implementation Method 1
These hinges are known as friction hinges and hold their rotational position until excessive force is used to overcome them.
Implementation Method 2
this friction hinge can have an angular zone of travel where little or no friction is encountered
Data Source
AI summary
A case or cover for an electronic device such as a tablet computer is disclosed. This case allows the user to protect and personalize their tablet computer. The case allows the user to position the device for viewing in either portrait or landscape mode and does not require the user to hold the device in the desired orientation. The case may have a distinct hinge, with a stop that limits its rotational travel allowing the user to prop the electronic device up, at a desired viewing angle.