Collapsible Tablet Mount Frame for Stable Travel Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting devices for tablet PCs are inadequate for securing larger and heavier devices during travel, as they are either too fragile, unstable, or obstructive, and fail to provide stable access to the screen in diverse environments.
Innovation Solution
A mounting apparatus with a suction cup assembly connected to an adjustable frame via cordage, allowing for secure attachment to various surfaces and adjustable positioning to maintain the tablet PC in an upright, forward-facing orientation, ensuring stability and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If existing mounting devices are used for tablet PCs, then the devices can be mounted on surfaces, but they are too fragile and unstable to secure larger and heavier devices during travel
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting apparatus is divided into multiple functional components: a mounting means (suction cup or adhesive pad) for attachment to surfaces, a support structure (frame or cradle) for holding the tablet, and connecting elements (cordage, straps, or rigid connectors) to link them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function, resulting in a more reliable overall system that can securely hold heavier tablets during travel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curved and contoured surfaces in the support structure, including arched top surfaces, curved rear surfaces, and contoured side surfaces that conform to the shape of tablets. These curved surfaces provide better contact area and distribution of forces, enhancing both the mounting strength and stability during movement, while also facilitating easy insertion and removal of tablets.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing mounting devices are used for tablet PCs, then the devices can be attached to surfaces, but they obstruct the driver's view or increase clutter
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting apparatus utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by positioning the tablet in a suspended or angled configuration rather than flat against the windshield. The support structure creates vertical and lateral separation between the mounting surface and the tablet, allowing the tablet to be mounted higher or to the side, thereby reducing visual obstruction while maintaining adaptability to various mounting locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates adjustable and flexible elements such as cordage with adjustable lengths, flexible connectors, and movable support structures that can be positioned to optimize the tablet's location. This dynamic adjustability allows users to configure the mounting position to minimize visual obstruction while maintaining secure attachment, adapting to different driving conditions and preferences.
3Shape
If existing mounting devices are used for tablet PCs, then the devices can be held upright, but they provide no stabilizing function during travel or on non-horizontal surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed with a center of gravity that provides inherent stabilizing moment to counteract forces during travel. The curved and arched surfaces create a stable triangular or pyramidal support geometry that resists tipping and displacement. Additionally, the mounting apparatus can be positioned to use the vehicle's existing structure (dashboard, windshield frame) as a counterbalance, enhancing stability without adding significant weight.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing mounting devices are used for tablet PCs, then the devices can be mounted on smooth surfaces, but they are incompatible with diverse mounting environments
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting means is designed with multi-functionality to accommodate diverse mounting surfaces. The apparatus can switch between or combine different attachment mechanisms (suction cups for smooth surfaces, adhesive pads for various surfaces, friction-based grips for textured surfaces) within a single device. This universal design allows the same basic apparatus structure to be used across different environments (vehicles, desks, walls) without requiring completely different mounting solutions, thereby managing complexity while maximizing adaptability.
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 apparatus provides a stable and accessible platform for tablet PCs in various environments, resisting turbulence and vibrations while allowing easy operation during travel without obstructing the driver's view or increasing clutter.
Implementation Method 1
A mounting apparatus with a suction cup assembly connected to an adjustable frame via cordage
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure of the previously presented invention describes a small sized collapsible frame for use in certain embodiments of said apparatus for adjustably mounting a tablet PC or other personal electronic device, including additional examples of its many adjustment and attachment features. A mounting means, such as a suction cup assembly, is attachable to various surfaces and is connected to a hanger from which cordage or straps descend to the suspended frame. The miniaturized frame features a crossover arrangement of two slats enabling expansion and contraction of either a width or a height dimension of said frame. The invention comprises various swappable stabilizer elements to separately regulate the orientation and attachment of the mounted device(s) to any surface; and herein, the threadable stabilizer cleats that attach to the cordage are described in particular detail.