Apple Patents Method for Adjusting the iPhone's Position in Mid-Air
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Posted March 21, 2013 at 2:15pm by iClarified
Apple has patented a method for adjusting the position of the iPhone while in freefall. The patent entitled, 'Protective Mechanism for an Electronic Device', aims to minimize damage to your device when dropped.
Examples of the disclosure may take the form of a method for protecting a vulnerable area of an electronic device during a freefall. The method may include detecting a freefall of the device by a sensor. Then, determining via at least one sensor an orientation of the device. After the orientation of the device has been determined, estimating an impact area of the device. Then, selectively changing the orientation of the device via a protective mechanism, depending on the estimated impact area of the device.
Apple details several protective mechanisms. For example, the angular momentum could be altered via rotating or linearly sliding a mass. A thrust mechanism such as a gas canister could produce a thrust force in one or multiple directions to reorient the device. Other protective mechanisms include an air foil, retracting buttons, and even the ability to grip to headphones if they are inserted.
How about a mechanism to detect when the device is in freefall and then triggers a series of inflatable pouches within the device casings to protect the device on impact.
The mechanism will exist entirely within a detachable case for the device as to enable the user of the device to dispose of the protective case after deployment and replace with a new or refurbished protective case.
???
Profit.
This is utter abuse of the flawed patent laws in the US. Did they display a working prototype?
You simply whip up some schematic-esque drawings and label them with dimensions. Add some vague blanket hubbub with some technical terms and phrases and you've got yourself a valid patent application.
Correction. iPhone20S. You will think it would launch in iPhone 20, but then apple will shock every one by holding it back and announcing it in iPhone 20S (Their most innovative phone they ever built up until then).