Docking System with Cam Ring and Solenoid Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional docking systems for portable computing devices impose restrictions that diminish their appeal and functionality, particularly in environments where flexibility and security are needed, such as in industrial or retail settings, where devices must be easily rotated for different display modes and securely charged without cumbersome cables.
Innovation Solution
A docking system that allows portable computing devices to be easily rotated and secured within a protective enclosure, enabling cable-free charging and secure communication through a wired network interface, compatible with various device sizes and brands, using a cam ring and solenoid actuator mechanism for secure engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional docking systems are used to charge portable computing devices, then charging function is provided, but cables and connectors are required which reduce ease of operation and device portability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the charging function from the portable device itself and relocates it to the docking system. The docking system includes a power source and charging circuitry that can charge the portable device's battery without requiring physical cable connections to the device's charging port. This eliminates the need for cables and connectors on the portable device while maintaining charging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary docking system that mediates between the power source and the portable device. The docking system contains a charging circuit that wirelessly or contactlessly transfers power to the portable device through the enclosure interface, acting as an intermediary that eliminates direct cable connections to the portable device itself.
2Reliability
If portable computing devices are secured in fixed docking positions, then security against theft is improved, but flexibility for rotation and different display modes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic docking system where the enclosure can be rotated between multiple locked positions (e.g., 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) while remaining securely docked. The docking system includes rotation mechanisms and locking features that allow the enclosure to maintain security while adapting to different display orientations and usage scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking system is designed to support multiple functions: secure docking, rotation to different orientations, charging, and data communication. The universal docking interface accommodates various portable device sizes and types while providing all these functions through a single integrated system.
3Strength
If protective enclosures are used to safeguard portable computing devices, then protection against damage is improved, but access to docking functions and charging ports is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the protective enclosure with the docking system into an integrated unit. The enclosure itself contains the docking interface, power source, and charging circuitry, eliminating the need for separate cables and external charging devices. The portable device is charged and docked through the enclosure's built-in mechanisms without requiring removal from protective housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking system provides self-service charging and data communication capabilities through the protective enclosure. The system automatically detects when a portable device is docked and initiates charging without user intervention. The enclosure's interface automatically establishes connections for power and data transfer.
4Reliability
If wired network connections are established through docking systems, then secure communication is improved, but device portability and ease of movement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the network communication function from the portable device and relocates it to the docking system. The docking system contains network interface cards and communication circuitry that provide wired network connectivity to the portable device through the docking interface, eliminating the need for the portable device to have its own external network ports or cables.
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
The docking system enhances user interaction by allowing portrait and landscape mode flexibility, secure communication, and cable-free charging, reducing theft risks without bulky security measures, thus improving device usability and security in diverse environments.
Implementation Method 1
using a cam ring and solenoid actuator mechanism for secure engagement and disengagement
Data Source
AI summary
A docking system may comprise a case mount for a portable computing device. The case mount can releasably dock and lock with a base mount in any of a number of docking position orientations. A plurality of case mount contacts can be organized into a plurality of case mount contact groups, wherein the case mount contact groups are arranged in a pattern on the case mount that permits a physical connection between a plurality of base mount contacts and a different one of the case mount contact groups for each of the different docking position orientations. Furthermore, an actuator can cause base mount latches to move in a manner that permits disengagement of the case mount from the base mount to an undocked position for the case mount if an undocking force is applied to the case mount.