Tensional Retention Assembly for Portable Device Cases
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cases for portable electronic devices, such as laptops, often use obtrusive straps and fail to securely retain the device in both closed and open positions due to lack of effective securing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A tensional retention assembly comprising elastic or springy tensional members with channeled clips that stretch to apply tensional forces, securing the device by engaging with its display portion without obstructing views or tactile experience, and allowing for adjustable retention of various device widths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional straps are used to secure the device, then the device can be retained in the case, but the straps create visual and tactile obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional strap component entirely and replaces it with a tensional member integrated into the case structure that uses elastic tension rather than visible straps. The tensional member is concealed within channels and uses internal mechanical tension to secure the device without external obtrusive elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces clips as intermediary elements that mediate between the tensional member and the device. These clips engage with the device edges and are pulled by the tensional member, providing secure retention without direct strap contact with the device surface.
2Reliability
If conventional securing mechanisms are used, then the device can be retained, but they fail to securely retain the device in both closed and open positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible hinge-like portion that allows the case to dynamically adapt between closed and open positions. The tensional member maintains constant elastic tension throughout the range of motion, ensuring secure retention in both closed and open configurations through dynamic adjustment rather than fixed positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensional member utilizes elastic property changes to maintain retention force across different case configurations. The elastic material's ability to stretch and retract provides consistent securing force whether the device is in closed or open position, adapting to the changing geometric parameters of the case.
3Device complexity
If a fixed retention mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different device sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The tensional member provides dynamic adjustment capability through its elastic properties, allowing it to stretch and retract to accommodate different device widths. The clips can slide along the tensional member and adjust their positioning, enabling the same mechanism to securely retain devices of varying sizes without requiring multiple fixed configurations.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional securing components are used, then the manufacturing is straightforward, but they cannot provide secure retention without obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tensional member with the case structure by integrating it into channels formed within the case portions. The clips are attached to both the tensional member and the case, combining multiple functions into a unified structure that provides secure retention without external straps or obtrusive components.
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 secure retention of portable electronic devices in both closed and open positions without visual or tactile obstructions, accommodating different device sizes and allowing for easy replacement or removal of components.
Implementation Method 1
the tensional member configured to be stretched from a first length to a second length longer than the first length wherein tensional forces are thereby applied to the first clip and the second clip
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are involved with but are not limited to a display case portion including an interior surface; and a tensional retention assembly including a tensional member, a first clip, a second clip, and the tensional member including a first end and a second end, the first clip coupled to the first end of the tensional member and the second clip coupled to the second end of the tensional member, the tensional member configured to be stretched from a first length to a second length longer than the first length wherein tensional forces are thereby applied to the first clip and the second clip. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.