Adjustable Support Assembly for Portable Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for securing portable electronic devices (PEDs) in passenger seats are inadequate, as they often require additional cases that are not adaptable to varying sizes and shapes, and do not provide a secure, convenient, and space-efficient way to use PEDs during flights, leading to discomfort and additional weight/storage issues for airlines and passengers.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable support assembly with a base, support platform, slide bar, and elastic coupling mechanisms that fits within a passenger seat recess, securely holding PEDs of different heights, widths, and thicknesses, and optionally includes an electronic connection port and accessory holder, allowing for secure use and charging without the need for additional cases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a groove in the tray table is used to hold PEDs, then the PED can be stored, but the thickness of the PED is limited and it is not positioned at eye level causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly uses spring-loaded arms that can dynamically adjust to accommodate PEDs of varying thicknesses. The arms exert adjustable clamping force to securely hold devices of different sizes, and the entire assembly can be positioned at eye level rather than in the fixed tray table location, resolving both the thickness limitation and comfort issues.
2Reliability
If additional cases are provided to secure PEDs, then the PED can be held securely, but the cases are not adaptable to varying sizes and shapes of PEDs
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly is designed as a universal mounting system that can accommodate various sizes and shapes of PEDs through its adjustable spring-loaded arms. The arms can be positioned to fit different device dimensions, and the assembly can be installed in multiple locations including seat backs, tray tables, and overhead bins, making it adaptable to different passenger needs and device types while providing secure holding.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cases are provided by passengers, then the case will fit their device, but they cannot be sure it will fit all types of passenger seats
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having passengers adapt their devices to fit various cases, the invention inverts the approach by providing a universal support assembly that adapts to fit various devices. The adjustable spring-loaded arms and multiple installation locations allow a single support assembly design to accommodate different PED sizes, shapes, and thicknesses, eliminating the need for passengers to purchase multiple device-specific cases.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a cradle with multiple adjustable arms is used, then PEDs of varying sizes and shapes can be supported, but additional components and complexity are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly is segmented into modular components including the base unit, spring-loaded arms, and mounting mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high adaptability through simple, standardized parts that can be independently adjusted. The modular design actually reduces overall complexity compared to a monolithic cradle structure, as each component performs a specific function and can be easily installed or replaced.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable support assembly provides a universal, space-efficient, and comfortable solution for PEDs, allowing secure use and charging without additional cases, reducing weight and storage needs for airlines and offering flexibility for passengers to use their devices at any time.
Implementation Method 1
a support platform comprising a ledge and a lip, wherein the ledge is elastically coupled to the base
Data Source
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AI summary
Described are adjustable support assemblies that include a base (16), a support platform (14) elastically coupled to the base, and a slide bar (12) elastically coupled to a pair of tracks on the base, wherein the adjustable support assembly is positioned within a recess (62) of a passenger seat back (64) and at least partially surrounded by a shroud (72) so that only portions of the support platform and the slide bar extend through the shroud, wherein the adjustable support assembly is configured to securely hold portable electronic devices having a range of heights, widths, and thicknesses.