Docking Station with Retractable Connector Panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tablet computers lack a secure and convenient docking solution that allows for easy operation in harsh environments and efficient connection to peripherals, especially when used with rugged cases that protect against inclement weather and accidental drops.
Innovation Solution
A docking station with a retractable connector access panel and a slide mechanism that securely supports the tablet, allowing for easy insertion and secure locking, while also providing electrical connectivity through a mating connector, and can be mounted on various surfaces for flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a connector access panel is added to protect the connector port in rugged cases, then protection against environmental factors is improved, but the complexity of the docking system increases
Solution Approach 1:
A retractable connector access panel is introduced as an intermediary component between the external environment and the connector port. This panel can be retracted to allow docking connections while providing protection when retracted, effectively mediating between the need for environmental protection and the need for connector access without permanently exposing the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector access panel is made dynamic through a retraction mechanism rather than being a fixed structure. This allows the panel to transition between a protective closed state and an open state for docking, enabling the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements while maintaining protection during transport or storage.
2Ease of operation
If a retractable connector access panel is implemented, then ease of connection to peripherals is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station's slide mechanism automatically performs the function of retracting the connector access panel when the tablet is inserted. This self-service action eliminates the need for manual intervention to open the panel, making the connection process easier while the complexity is confined to the automated mechanism rather than requiring complex control systems.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a slide mechanism with cradle is used to secure the tablet, then stability of the docking connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slide mechanism and cradle are merged into a single integrated component that performs multiple functions: securing the tablet through the cradle while simultaneously providing the retraction mechanism for the connector access panel. This consolidation achieves stable tablet positioning and connector protection without requiring separate independent mechanisms for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A docking station for an electronic device that is contained within a case, in which the case includes a retractable connector access panel at least partially overlying a portion of a connector port of the electronic device, includes a base at least partially configured to support the electronic device. An electrical connector is coupled to the base and configured to receive the connector port of the electronic device. A retraction member is coupled to the base and configured to retract the connector access panel to at least partially expose the connector port during docking of the electronic device.