Universal Protective Case With Adjustable Viewing Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing protective cases for electronic devices are limited in accommodating a variety of devices due to their design, which is typically tailored for a single device size and shape, failing to provide adequate protection and viewing orientation for different electronic devices.

Innovation Solution

A protective case with hinges or folds, elastic securing members, and rigid support structures that allow for the accommodation of various device sizes and shapes, enabling multiple configurations such as 'closed book', 'open book', 'folded open', and 'propped open' positions for optimal viewing and protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a protective case is designed to fit a single electronic device, then the device is well protected, but the case cannot accommodate a variety of devices of different sizes and shapes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate various devicesVSAvoidcase structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective case is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple electronic devices of different sizes and shapes. The case includes adjustable retaining members and flexible positioning mechanisms that allow a single case to securely hold various devices, eliminating the need for multiple device-specific cases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The case incorporates dynamic elements such as movable retaining members, adjustable straps, or flexible positioning systems that can be reconfigured to match different device dimensions. This dynamic adaptability allows the case structure to adjust its configuration based on the specific device being protected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a protective case is designed with fixed structure, then the manufacturing is simple, but the case cannot provide multiple viewing orientations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveviewing orientation flexibilityVSAvoidcase manufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The case is divided into separate functional segments including a main body portion and a cover portion connected by a hinge. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each part and simplifies manufacturing while enabling multiple configurations. The hinge connection allows the cover to be positioned at various angles for different viewing orientations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The case utilizes changeable geometric parameters through the hinge mechanism, allowing the cover to rotate and position the device at different viewing angles. This parameter change capability is achieved through simple mechanical means that maintain manufacturing simplicity while providing orientation flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If elastic securing members are added to retain devices, then the device security is improved, but the device removal and insertion becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice retention securityVSAvoiddevice insertion and removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic retaining members are pre-positioned within the case structure, ready to engage the device upon insertion. The device simply needs to be placed in the correct orientation, and the pre-positioned elastic members automatically provide retention without requiring additional manipulation or force from the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 case effectively secures and supports a range of electronic devices, providing protection and allowing for desired viewing angles, thus addressing the limitations of existing cases by offering versatility and adaptability to different device sizes and types.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic member in force-transmitting communication with the second cover portion, the elastic member comprising a biasing force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8925722B2Protective case for an electronic device
Publication Date: 2015.01.06 THULE ORG SOLUTIONS
  • US8925722B2 patent drawing
  • US8925722B2 patent drawing
  • US8925722B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A protective case for accommodating a number of variable sized electronic devices is provided. The case comprises internal features including rigid support members and biasing members for securing an electronic device and allowing the selective orientation and positioning of the electrical device for optimizing viewing.