Coupleable Receptacle With Elastic Retention Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of misplacing small, portable electronic devices such as remote controls, smartphones, and headphones is prevalent in various environments, leading to disrupted access and time spent searching for these devices.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle with compartments specifically designed to hold portable devices, featuring an adjustable connection system with extendable and retractable cords or lanyards that automatically release tension when extended and retract when pulled, ensuring the devices return to their storage position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a storage system is used to retain portable devices, then device storage is provided, but the device can be removed from the storage system and not returned to the storage system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic connection system with cords that can be extended and retracted. The cords are connected to the storage system and to the portable device, allowing the device to be easily accessed by extending the cords while maintaining automatic return to the storage system when the cords are retracted. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction by providing both easy accessibility and reliable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the cords automatically detect when the portable device is removed and initiate the retraction process, which in turn automatically returns the device to the storage system. This automatic feedback loop ensures the device is retained without requiring manual intervention, solving the reliability issue while maintaining ease of operation.
2Reliability
If a cord is attached to a device to prevent loss, then device retention is improved, but the cord creates constant tension which interferes with comfortable usage
Solution Approach 1:
The cord is designed to be dynamically adjustable in length through extension and retraction mechanisms. When the device is in use, the cord can be extended to provide sufficient length for comfortable operation. When not in use, the cord retracts to minimize tension and prevent interference with usage comfort. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between retention reliability and usability comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The cord's effective length parameter is changed based on usage requirements. The system allows the cord to transition between extended and retracted states, changing its length parameter to adapt to different operational conditions. This parameter change enables the cord to provide retention when needed while minimizing tension during usage, resolving the contradiction between device retention and comfort.
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 receptacle effectively organizes and secures portable devices, minimizing the risk of loss or misplacement while maintaining easy access, thus enhancing user convenience and reducing time spent searching for misplaced devices.
Implementation Method 1
one or more retention cables configured to be elastically extendable or retractable
Data Source
AI summary
A receptacle for retaining one or more portable devices including a supportive structure formed from a pliant material. The supportive structure includes a front face having one or more front compartments and a back face having one or more back compartments positioned along the back face. The receptacle includes an extension coupled to an upper portion of the supportive structure where the extension supports the supportive structure. The receptacle includes one or more elastic retention cables extending from the supportive structure where the device fastener is configured to be coupled with a portable device.