Universal Coupling Assembly for Portable Electronics in Passenger Seats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Passengers in vehicles often prefer to use their own portable electronics devices (PEDs) instead of onboard entertainment systems, necessitating a way to connect and power these devices for hands-free viewing and entertainment options.
Innovation Solution
A portable electronics device coupling assembly comprising a cradle and an adaptor that electronically and releasably engages PEDs to passenger seats, allowing for various mounting configurations and power/data connections, including wireless options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If passengers use their own PEDs instead of onboard entertainment systems, then entertainment options and personalization are improved, but compatibility and integration with onboard systems deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple types of PEDs (smartphones, tablets, laptops) and connect to various onboard systems (IFE, power systems, charging ports). The adaptor interface accommodates different connection types while providing a unified mounting solution that integrates diverse devices into the aircraft seat environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly acts as an intermediary device between the passenger's PED and the aircraft seat/IFE system. It provides the mechanical mounting interface and electrical connection bridge that enables compatibility without requiring modification to either the PED or the onboard system.
2Ease of operation
If PEDs are mounted to passenger seats for hands-free viewing, then viewing convenience is improved, but device stability and secure engagement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is divided into separate functional components: a mounting portion that attaches to the aircraft seat, a cradle portion that holds the PED, and an adaptor that provides electrical connection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide both convenience and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cradle is designed with adjustable and movable elements that can adapt to different PED sizes and shapes. The mounting mechanism allows for secure engagement that can accommodate various device dimensions while maintaining stable attachment to the seat throughout the flight.
3Device complexity
If a standardized coupling assembly is designed, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced, but adaptability to different PED sizes and types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly incorporates universal mounting interfaces and adjustable cradle elements that can accommodate various PED types and sizes using a single standardized design. The adaptor interface is designed to work with multiple connection types while maintaining a consistent overall assembly structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cradle includes movable and adjustable components that can be configured to fit different device dimensions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows a standardized assembly design to adapt to various PED sizes without requiring multiple specialized mounting solutions.
Data Source
AI summary
Described are portable electronics device coupling assemblies including a cradle configured to electronically couple and releasably engage a portable electronics device, and an adaptor configured to electronically couple and releasably engage the cradle to a passenger seat. Other examples may include a passenger seat having an electronics port configured to electronically couple to the portable electronics device, and a receptacle coupled to the electronics port and configured to releasably engage the portable electronics device. As examples, the portable electronics device may be a tablet computer, a cell phone, a smart phone, a handheld video game system, a personal digital assistant, a palmtop computer, a DVD player, data or audio-video media, or a multi-media enabled device.