Transferring momentum: Novel drop protection concept for mobile devices

Abstract

Dropping a tablet (or mobile phone) can be extremely costly, as loss of functionality, visible body damage, screen delamination and failure are all too familiar outcomes. This paper discusses the analysis led design of a novel passive protection concept, capable of isolating a device from the primary impact, and is also insensitive to impact angle and device dependent features. A high fidelity finite element model of an iPad Air was used to develop the BLOKTM protection concept, which utilises different grades of elastomer, optimised internal castellation geometry and a high stiffness backplate. Sensitivity studies include the influence of glass properties, screen bonding and impact angle on the robustness of the