Electromechanical Mobile Device Holder with Automated Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile device holders for vehicles require manual mechanical operation, often necessitating the use of both hands, which is impractical and difficult.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanically actuated holder with a built-in energy supply, using an electric motor to move clamping jaws, and sensors to automate the clamping process, allowing for one-handed operation and adjustable positioning for different devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual mechanical operation is used for clamping, then the device structure remains simple, but ease of operation deteriorates requiring both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation system with an electromechanical system. An electric motor (21) drives a gear unit (4, 5, 8, 9) that automatically actuates the clamping jaws (10a, 10b), eliminating the need for manual two-handed operation while maintaining the mechanical clamping function.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder performs self-service through automated detection and actuation. Sensors (2, 3) automatically detect device insertion and user release intent, triggering the motor-driven clamping mechanism without requiring manual operation, making the system operate autonomously based on sensor input.
2Ease of operation
If electromechanical actuation is implemented, then ease of operation improves enabling one-handed use, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs only the minimum necessary action for clamping. The motor drives the clamping jaws just enough to secure the device firmly, avoiding excessive energy consumption while achieving the required clamping force for stable device holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromechanical system operates periodically rather than continuously. The motor actuates the clamping mechanism only when sensors detect device insertion or release intent, consuming energy only during these discrete operational moments rather than continuously.
3Extent of automation
If sensors and electronic control are added, then automation level increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control through sensors (2, 3) that detect device insertion and user release actions. This feedback is processed by electronic control unit (11) to automatically trigger the motor-driven clamping mechanism, achieving high automation through sensor-motor coupling with minimal complexity.
4Use of energy by moving object
If clamping jaws move a small predetermined distance, then energy consumption decreases, but adaptability to different devices may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves adaptability through dynamic adjustment of the small predetermined movement distance. The electronic control unit modifies the actuation distance based on sensor feedback about device size and type, allowing the same small movement range to accommodate various device dimensions while maintaining energy efficiency.
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
Enables easy, one-handed operation and automatic clamping of mobile devices, reducing energy consumption and accommodating various device sizes with low power usage.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor being provided for moving at least one of the clamping jaws
Implementation Method 2
integrated battery/rechargeable battery unit or additionally equipped with solar cells
Data Source
AI summary
In a holder for motor vehicles for receiving a mobile device, with a housing (1) and with clamping jaws (10a, 10b) for clamping the mobile device, the housing (1) is equipped with a dedicated power supply (6) for the clamping operation, wherein the clamping jaws (10a, 10b) are movable electromechanically for opening or closing purposes.