Barcode Reader Cradle Latch for Easy Docking and Secure Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld barcode reader assemblies require easy insertion into a cradle with minimal force but need higher retention/removal force to stay secured during mobile workstation movement, balancing ease of use and stability.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical latch mechanism in the cradle that allows asymmetric insertion and removal forces, utilizing a latch bolt with rotational and translational movements to achieve minimal insertion force and higher retention force, assisted by a compression spring and magnet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a mechanical latch mechanism is used to retain the handheld barcode reader in the cradle, then retention force is improved, but insertion force increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed with asymmetric geometry where the latch bolt has a cam surface that interacts with a cam surface on the cradle. During insertion, the cam surfaces allow the latch bolt to rotate and engage with minimal force. During removal, the asymmetric geometry requires the user to pull against the retention force of the spring, creating the desired asymmetric force characteristics where insertion is easy but removal requires deliberate force
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism transitions from a static retaining position to a dynamic engagement state during insertion. The latch bolt rotates about its axis as it engages with the cradle, allowing the mechanism to adapt to the insertion motion. This dynamic behavior enables the latch to engage smoothly during insertion while maintaining a secure retained state during normal operation
2Stability of the object's composition
If a mechanical latch mechanism with high retention force is used, then stability during movement is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a latch bolt for engagement, a compression spring for providing retention force, and cam surfaces for guiding the engagement motion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the cam surfaces handle the ease of insertion, the spring provides the retention force, and the latch bolt provides the mechanical connection
Solution Approach 2:
The cam surfaces act as intermediaries between the user's insertion motion and the latch bolt engagement. During insertion, the cam surfaces guide the latch bolt's rotation and engagement with minimal resistance. During removal, the cam surfaces translate the user's pulling force into latch bolt disengagement, mediating the interaction between user input and latch mechanism response
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
Enables easy insertion of the handheld barcode reader into the cradle with minimal force while ensuring secure retention during mobile workstation movement, enhancing user convenience and stability.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring coupled to the latch bolt. The compression spring is configured to bend with the first force placed on the first face of the latch bolt and the latch bolt rotated about the first axis and to compress with the second force placed on the second face of the latch bolt and the latch bolt translated along the second axis
Implementation Method 2
the cradle comprises a magnet configured to attract a portion of the handheld barcode reader with the handheld barcode reader inserted into the cradle
Data Source
AI summary
An example mobile workstation that is movable by an operator includes a display device, a mounting bracket, and a barcode reader assembly. The barcode reader assembly includes a handheld barcode reader and a cradle configured to be secured to the mounting bracket. The cradle has a mechanical latch mechanism configured to removably retain the handheld barcode reader in the cradle. A first force is required to move the handheld barcode reader past the mechanical latch mechanism and insert the handheld barcode reader fully into the cradle and a second force, greater than the first force, is required to move the handheld barcode reader past the mechanical latch mechanism and remove the handheld barcode reader from the cradle.