Adjustable Cup Holder Insert for Electronic Device Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cup-holders in vehicles do not effectively support electronic devices like smartphones and tablets for hands-free use while allowing the holder to still accommodate cups and other objects.
Innovation Solution
A support system comprising a rigid yet flexible insert and adjustable device cradle with side panels that snugly fit within the cup-holder, featuring an extension member for stability and an adjustment mechanism to secure the device in place, allowing for flexible positioning and compatibility with various cup-holder types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid support structure is used to stabilize the electronic device, then the device stability is improved, but the cup-holder cannot accommodate cups and other flexible contents
Solution Approach 1:
The support system employs a flexible arm with adjustable rigidity that can dynamically adapt between providing stable device support and allowing cup-holder versatility. The flexible arm can be adjusted to different rigidity levels and positions, enabling it to stabilize electronic devices when needed while maintaining the cup-holder's ability to accommodate cups and other contents.
Solution Approach 2:
The cup-holder is divided into functional segments: a base portion that maintains cup-holder versatility, a flexible arm portion that provides adjustable support, and a device cradle portion that stabilizes the electronic device. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill its specific function while working together to resolve the contradiction between stability and versatility.
2Reliability
If adjustable side panels are added to secure the device, then device security is improved, but the device cradle complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable side panels are designed to be manually adjusted by the user based on the size and shape of the electronic device. The system provides self-adjustment capability where the user can configure the side panels to fit different devices, eliminating the need for complex automated adjustment mechanisms while still achieving secure device holding.
Data Source
AI summary
A support system for adjustably supporting an object such as an electronic device is provide for use with existing cup-holders, such as those found on automotive vehicles. The system include preferably a rigid yet flexible cup insert, rigid yet flexible extension member, and a fixed and/or adjustable cradle to support the object, where the extension member may be manipulated to permit adjustment of the cradle (and thus the object supported on the cradle) relative to the user and the existing cup-holder.