A slight hit there and a small bump there will result in a screen crack that will definitely cost the user hundreds of dollars. The invention will include a screen protector that is placed on top of the display, which will create a gap between the protector and the screen.
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The patent talks about how retractable tabs will be fitted onto devices such as the iPhone, and can sense the fall. Apple is trying to solve the issue with “bumpers”.
“When the sensor detects a drop event, the screen protectors move from the retracted to extended position, functioning as a shock absorber and preventing the screen from connecting with a surface that the electronic device contacts”, the patent notes.
Despite the latest iPhone 6s and 6s Plus using improved Corning Gorilla Glass as well as a tougher Series 7000 Aluminium chassis, the handset’s screen is the weakest part and is prone to shattering when it takes a bad fall. About Making Comments on our Site: Patently Apple reserves the right to post, dismiss or edit any comments. No mention is made of what happens if the phone lands on its back.
We’re all hopeful that one day manufacturers will be able to offer shatterproof glass, but Apple has another plan that seems insane, but it just might be what the doctor ordered.
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The coolest thing about these protectors is that they would adjust as soon it senses danger and would re-adjust once the sensors signal that the danger has vanished. The display protector has sensors built-in to detect when an iPhone is in a motion that mimics a falling device. The system is another of the company’s famous patents and details a hidden bumper mechanism that extends outwards over the screen to absorb any impact when the phone is dropped. Sure, you could wrap your phone in a case that doubles its size, but that’s not something that everyone can get behind.
