In an exciting development, Apple has recently been granted a patent for an innovative cover that could revolutionize the durability of their devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, and MacBooks. This patent showcases Apple’s commitment to enhancing the resilience of its products, potentially eliminating the need for additional protective covers.
Referred to as an “abrasion-resistant back panel,” Apple’s newly patented housing incorporates a special composition that can withstand scratches and dents. The patent, titled ‘spatial composites’ and attributed to Chris Prest, Apple’s senior director for materials engineering and product design, provides insights into this ground-breaking technology.
The patent outlines a method for creating robust housing for electronic devices. It involves integrating interlocking structures of abrasion-resistant components into a mold cavity. These components, made from metal or ceramic, possess superior hardness compared to the moldable matrix substrate. Positioned approximately 10 to 100 microns apart, these components may feature faceted surfaces and could be designed to reflect light at specific angles. The patent, however, does not disclose the exact tactile texture they would provide to the device.
Accompanying the patent documentation are illustrative figures, including one showcasing an iPhone’s back glass panel with embedded abrasion-resistant members utilizing Spatial Composites. Another figure presents a cross-sectional view of a housing incorporating such members, while yet another illustrates a sample process for manufacturing the housing. The patent also features diverse variations of the abrasion-resistant structure and substrate surface.
It’s important to note that these drawings serve as illustrations, offering a glimpse into the arrangement of the members within the chassis. The patent does not reveal the precise spacing between the components, which falls within the range of 10 to 100 microns. The credit for this patent goes to three inventors, including Christopher D. Preset, who has previously explored the use of glass ceramic components in a MagSafe system capable of transmitting both power and data.
Apple’s patent for an abrasion-resistant housing marks a significant milestone in the ongoing quest to enhance smartphone durability. While the patent provides intriguing insights, the actual implementation and user experience of this technology remains to be seen. Apple enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate the potential arrival of this ground-breaking solution, which could finally eliminate the need for external protective covers on their beloved devices.
