High-Friction Hinge Kickstand for Tablet Case
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tablet cases with kickstands require engagement features to lock the kickstand in selected positions, which can be cumbersome and limit the flexibility of the kickstand's orientation.
Innovation Solution
A tablet case with a kickstand assembly that utilizes a locking high-friction hinge, allowing the kickstand to be adjusted to any desired angle without the need for additional engagement features, relying solely on the friction from the hinge to prevent axial rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If engagement features are used to lock the kickstand in selected positions, then the kickstand stability is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes engagement features entirely from the kickstand mechanism, extracting the locking function and replacing it with a continuous friction-based holding mechanism. This eliminates the need for discrete engagement positions while maintaining stability through controlled friction between the kickstand member and housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The kickstand transitions from a static locked-position system to a dynamic continuous-adjustment system. The kickstand member can be positioned at any angle within its range of motion, with friction providing continuous stabilization rather than discrete locked positions, enabling flexible orientation adjustment.
2Reliability
If engagement features are used to lock the kickstand, then the kickstand stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes engagement features entirely from the kickstand mechanism, extracting the locking function and replacing it with a continuous friction-based holding mechanism. This eliminates the need for discrete engagement positions while maintaining stability through controlled friction between the kickstand member and housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction-based mechanism provides self-adjusting stability, where the kickstand member naturally maintains its position through friction forces without requiring active locking or engagement actions by the user. The system self-regulates to hold any position within its range.
3Device complexity
If traditional hinges are used for the kickstand, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to maintain selected positions deteriorates due to insufficient friction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the friction parameter of the hinge mechanism by incorporating a high-friction surface treatment or material on the kickstand member that contacts the housing. This increases the friction coefficient to sufficient levels to maintain selected positions without adding engagement features, while keeping the hinge structure relatively simple.
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 solution provides a flexible and easy-to-use kickstand that can be adjusted to any angle, eliminating the need for engagement features and enhancing user convenience while maintaining stability.
Implementation Method 1
Only friction from the locking high-friction hinge prevents axial rotation of the kickstand member
Data Source
AI summary
A tablet case includes a housing sized to receive the tablet computer, and a kickstand assembly that includes a locking high-friction hinge mounted on the housing. A kickstand member is attached to the high-friction hinge at a proximal end. The kickstand member is able to move between a collapsed configuration wherein the kickstand member abuts the housing, and at least one extended configuration wherein the kickstand member is axially rotated to extends outwardly from the housing for supporting the housing. Only friction from the locking high-friction hinge prevents axial rotation of the kickstand member.