Hinged Ejection Mechanism for Single-Handed Device Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing docking stations require two hands to remove electronic devices due to high extraction forces, can cause damage from off-axis removal, and are inefficient in material usage, as they rely on weight and static connectors.
Innovation Solution
A docking station with a hinged ejection mechanism that allows the electrical connector to rotate and change angles, reducing extraction force and minimizing wear-and-tear, while using a four-bar linkage to facilitate off-axis removal and efficiently use materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a heavy docking station is used to overcome extraction force, then the device can be removed with one hand, but material usage increases and transportation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is made movable rather than static, allowing it to rotate and adjust its angle during device removal. This dynamic capability enables the connector to accommodate off-axis removal forces without requiring the docking station to be heavy, thus achieving one-handed operation with lighter materials
Solution Approach 2:
The connector's angular position is changed during the removal process. By allowing the connector to rotate from its initial parallel position to a non-parallel position, the system adapts to varying removal angles and forces, reducing the need for excessive weight to handle extraction forces
2Device complexity
If a static connector is used, then the structure is simple, but off-axis removal causes binding, breakage, or damage to the electronic device
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to rotate about an axis, transforming it from a static to a dynamic component. This rotation capability allows the connector to accommodate off-axis removal forces smoothly, preventing binding and breakage while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating connector mechanism preemptively counteracts off-axis removal forces by allowing angular adjustment before damage can occur. This preliminary adaptation prevents binding and breakage that would otherwise happen with a static connector
3Reliability
If extraction force is increased to ensure secure connection, then connector engagement is more reliable, but device removal becomes more difficult and may require two hands
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating connector mechanism allows the system to maintain strong engagement during normal use while enabling easy removal when needed. The rotation capability provides a release mechanism that overcomes high extraction forces, allowing one-handed removal even with secure connector engagement
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 single-handed removal of electronic devices at various angles, reducing the risk of damage and material usage, while maintaining effective connector engagement and extraction force management.
Implementation Method 1
a first and second bars hingedly connecting the base member to the top member. The top member is configured to be disposed in a first position in which the electrical connector is disposed at a first height with respect to the horizontal support and substantially parallel to the vertical support. The top member is further configured to be disposed in a second position in which the electrical connector is disposed at a second height with respect to the horizontal member and substantially non-parallel with the vertical support.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a docking station for holding an electronic device including a main body, a vertical support, a horizontal support, a cut-out in the horizontal support, and an ejection mechanism. The ejection mechanism includes a base member, a top member, an extension member disposed on the top member, an electrical connector disposed on the extension member, and a first and second bars hingedly connecting the base member to the top member. The top member is configured to be disposed in a first position in which the electrical connector is disposed at a first height with respect to the horizontal support and substantially parallel to the vertical support. The top member is further configured to be disposed in a second position in which the electrical connector is disposed at a second height with respect to the horizontal member and substantially non-parallel with the vertical support. The second height is less than the first height.