V-Groove Clamping Mechanism for Universal Device Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand-held electronic device holding apparatuses are either model-specific, providing poor aesthetics but limited reusability, or adjustable, which often results in a loose and unstable grip due to elastic materials that degrade over time, increasing the risk of device damage.
Innovation Solution
A holding apparatus featuring opposing clamping V-shaped surfaces that securely grip electronic devices by automatically resting on both angled surfaces of the V-shaped grooves, providing a stable and durable grip, and allowing for bi-dimensional adjustment through slidable clamping members and retention mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If elastic materials are used to enable adjustability of the holding apparatus, then the apparatus can fit different device sizes, but the grip becomes loose and unstable over time due to material degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the clamping mechanism from elastic deformation to rigid mechanical engagement. The V-shaped grooves create a geometric locking system where the device is held firmly through the interlocking of surfaces rather than elastic pressure, eliminating the degradation issue while maintaining adjustability through the slidable clamping members.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding apparatus combines rigid structural components (the V-shaped grooves and clamping members) with adjustable positioning mechanisms. This composite approach integrates the stability of rigid structures with the adaptability of movable parts, achieving both firm grip and size accommodation without relying on degradable elastic materials.
2Shape
If model-specific holding apparatus are used, then aesthetic finish is improved, but reusability across different device models is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The holding apparatus is designed with universal adaptability through its V-shaped groove geometry and adjustable clamping members. The same apparatus can securely hold multiple device models with different dimensions, achieving both aesthetic consistency and cross-model reusability by accommodating various sizes within the same structural framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping members are designed to be movable and adjustable, allowing the holding apparatus to dynamically adapt to different device sizes. This dynamic adjustment capability enables a single apparatus to maintain proper fit and appearance across multiple device models, combining aesthetic finish with versatility.
3Ease of operation
If elastic elements are used for adjustability, then mounting is simplified, but the mechanical locking is absent causing device wobble and potential falling
Solution Approach 1:
The V-shaped groove design enables self-centering and self-locking of the device. When the device is inserted, it automatically positions itself within the V-shaped groove, and the geometry of the groove provides inherent mechanical locking without requiring additional elastic elements or complex mounting mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The V-shaped grooves utilize curved surfaces that naturally guide and secure the device in place. The angled surfaces of the V-shape create a self-locking geometric constraint that prevents device wobble and falling, providing mechanical stability through shape rather than elastic force.
Data Source
AI summary
A holding apparatus capable of embracing a generally flat-shaped item, such as a smartphone, computer tablet or the like, said holding apparatus comprising one or more pairs of opposing V-shaped clamping surfaces capable of providing a self-adjusting, permanent grip of the sides of the item regardless of the item being static, vibrating, or touched by a user's finger or other external object. The V-shaped clamping surfaces can be arranged on two or more sides of the device. For instance, opposing V-shaped clamping surfaces can be arranged to clamp the left and right sides of a four-sided quadrangular device, and additional opposing surfaces can be arranged perpendicularly to grip the top and bottom sides of the device, providing a very effective and robust grip that minimizes the risk of the item being dropped and damaged.