Docking Stand With Hidden Compartment For Mini PC Security

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mini-PCs and PC sticks pose security risks due to their small size and require complex cable management, which can lead to clutter and accessibility issues, and existing mounting solutions can damage surfaces or limit accessibility.

Innovation Solution

A display stand with a dock that has a hidden compartment with power and data connectors, allowing for secure and cable-free connection of mini-PCs or PC sticks, featuring a lockable cover that blends seamlessly into the design to enhance security and reduce visibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If mini-PC or PC stick is left in view for easy access, then accessibility is improved, but security deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidsecurity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mini-PC or PC stick is nested within a hidden compartment of the display stand, which is concealed behind a cover that matches the exterior design. This allows the device to be stored securely out of sight while remaining easily accessible by simply opening the cover, resolving the contradiction between security and accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If cables are used to connect mini-PC to monitor, then connectivity is improved, but workspace clutter increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveconnectivityVSAvoidcable management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power and data connectors are merged into a single integrated dock structure that is built into the display stand. The mini-PC connects to the monitor through this integrated dock, eliminating the need for separate cables and reducing workspace clutter while maintaining full connectivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Stability of the object's composition

If mini-PC is mounted on surface, then stability is improved, but surface damage risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestabilityVSAvoidsurface damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting function is merged into the display stand structure itself, which is designed to support the mini-PC within its hidden compartment. The stand's base and structure bear the weight and provide stability, eliminating the need for separate mounting solutions that could damage surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10114408B2Hidden compartment with ports for mini PC or PC stick
Publication Date: 2018.10.30 LENOVO SWITZERLAND INTERNATIONAL GMBH
  • US10114408B2 patent drawing
  • US10114408B2 patent drawing
  • US10114408B2 patent drawing

AI summary

One embodiment provides a display stand, including: a base supporting a dock; the dock having: a front that accommodates a display panel; a front face that extends upward from the front; and a back face that is substantially opposite to the front face; the back face including a cover that repositions to reveal an internal cavity disposed within the dock; the dock further including a surface forming a wall of the internal cavity, the surface having one or more power and data connectors. Other aspects are described and claimed.