Game Controller Clamp Mount for Secure Mobile Device Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile device holders for game controllers are insecure, unbalanced, and require replacement with new devices for each change in game controller shape and dimensions, often interfering with control buttons and joysticks.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device holder with a support frame and clamp member, featuring a lower and upper jaw with magnetic securing means, allowing secure attachment to game controllers without obstructing buttons or joysticks, and a removable support frame that can be reused with different controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an open cradle is used to support the game controller, then the mobile phone can be mounted above the controller, but the assembly becomes insecure and off-balance
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a reusable support frame with mobile phone mounting capabilities, and a detachable clamp member that interfaces with the game controller. This segmentation allows the support frame to be optimized for phone mounting while the clamp is optimized for secure controller attachment, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp member acts as an intermediary component between the game controller and the support frame. It provides a secure attachment point on the controller (through encirclement) and interfaces with the support frame, thereby transmitting stable support forces while enabling the support frame to be adaptively positioned above the controller.
2Device complexity
If a standard clamp or mounting device is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate the rounded and irregular shape of game controllers
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp member incorporates a hinge joint that allows it to dynamically adjust its shape and configuration to match the contours of different game controller designs. This dynamic adaptability enables a relatively simple clamp structure to accommodate various rounded and irregular controller shapes without requiring complex custom-designed mounts for each controller type.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp member's geometric parameters (opening angle, jaw position, encirclement tightness) can be changed to adapt to different controller shapes and sizes. This allows a single clamp design to work with multiple controller models by adjusting its configuration rather than requiring completely different clamp structures.
3Manufacturing precision
If the cradle is made to fit specific controller dimensions, then it provides precise support, but it must be replaced every time the controller design changes
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the support frame from the clamp member, the design allows the clamp (which interfaces with the controller) to be replaced independently when controller designs change, while the support frame (which provides precise positioning) can be reused. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing precision components to be retained while adapting interface components.
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can work with different clamp members adapted to various controller designs. This universality allows the precision support structure to remain consistent while the interface clamp is updated to match new controller shapes and dimensions.
4Reliability
If the support device encircles the controller, then it provides secure mounting, but it may obstruct buttons and joysticks
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp member is designed with non-uniform encirclement characteristics: it provides tight securing at the rear edge (where the hinge and securing means are located) while maintaining more open configuration at the front and sides where buttons and joysticks are positioned. This local differentiation of clamping quality ensures secure mounting without obstructing control elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp member encircles the controller primarily in the vertical dimension (from top to bottom) rather than horizontally across the front face. This dimensional approach allows the clamp to secure the controller from above without interfering with the horizontal placement and operation of buttons and joysticks on the controller surface.
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
Provides stable and secure mounting of mobile devices without interfering with game controller use, allowing easy adaptation to new controllers by replacing only the clamp, thus enhancing usability and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Implementation Method 1
cooperative magnetic means may be provided in said mounting recess and on said support frame, and configured to removably secure said support frame to said connecting means of said lower jaw of said clamp member
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile device holder for mounting a mobile computing device to a computer game controller includes a support frame and a clamp member. The clamp member has a lower jaw defining a recess for receiving the base of a game controller, and an upper jaw that extends around the top of a said game controller, in use. The lower and upper jaws hinged together at a rear edge of the clamp, and releasably securable together at an opposing front edge so as to, in use, encircle a central portion of a game controller. The lower jaw incorporates an inner surface facing the upper jaw and an opposing outer surface including connecting means. The support frame includes a support member for removably receiving and holding a mobile computing device, and means for removably securing the support frame to the connecting means of the lower jaw of the clamp member.