Electronic Device Cradle With Gravity-Locked Hook for Vertical Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cradles for electronic devices are unable to accommodate both horizontal and vertical positioning without risking the device from falling unexpectedly.
Innovation Solution
A cradle design featuring a housing with a hook and cam mechanism that switches locking positions based on orientation, using a spring and cam with different locking pits to secure the device horizontally and vertically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the cradle is positioned vertically on a wall, then space utilization is improved, but the electronic device may unexpectedly drop from the cradle
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism dynamically adapts its engagement state based on the cradle's orientation. The cam mechanism automatically transitions between locked and unlocked positions when the cradle rotates from horizontal to vertical orientation, enabling the hook to protrude and engage with the device only in vertical positioning, thus preventing accidental drops while maintaining space efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the engagement parameter of the hook based on orientation. In horizontal orientation, the hook is suppressed and disengaged; in vertical orientation, the hook protrudes and engages with the device. This parameter change is achieved through the cam mechanism that responds to gravitational force and orientation changes
2Ease of operation
If the cradle is positioned horizontally on a surface, then device access is improved, but the cradle cannot be positioned vertically
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle is designed with multi-functional positioning capability, allowing it to operate effectively in both horizontal and vertical orientations. The locking mechanism universally adapts to different orientations through the cam mechanism, enabling the same device to be used on desks (horizontal) or mounted on walls (vertical) without requiring different designs
3Reliability
If a fixed locking mechanism is used, then device security is improved, but the mechanism cannot adapt to orientation changes
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The cam mechanism automatically adjusts the locking state based on the cradle's orientation, being locked in horizontal position and unlocked in vertical position. This dynamic behavior provides security when needed while adapting to orientation changes automatically
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves itself by automatically responding to orientation changes through gravitational force acting on the cam mechanism. No external control or manual intervention is needed - the mechanism self-adjusts its locking state based on whether the cradle is horizontal or vertical, providing both security and 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
Ensures secure engagement and prevention of device fall when transitioning between horizontal and vertical orientations by leveraging a cam mechanism with offset center of mass and gravitational forces.
Implementation Method 1
a spring disposed within the elongated cavity of the hook
Implementation Method 2
the cam switches from the first locking position to a second locking position relative to the housing under an effect of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
A cradle configured to hold an electronic device is disclosed. The cradle comprising a hook positioned at least partially within a housing. The hook comprising a first portion having a first elongated member and an elongated cavity and a second portion having a second elongated member. A spring is disposed within the elongated cavity of the hook, and a cam is movably connected to the hook and having a first locking pit and a second locking pit. When the cradle is positioned in a horizontal orientation, the hook is engaged with the first locking pit. When the cradle is moved from the horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation, the first elongated member protrudes from the housing and the second elongated member engaged with the second locking pit. Thereafter, the first elongated member is configured to engage with the electronic device to prevent the electronic device from falling from the cradle.