Hinged Steering Wheel Clipboard With Secure Multi-Point Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a versatile and secure clipboard system that can be easily mounted on a vehicle's steering wheel, allowing for temporary and removable attachment, with features to support various items and devices while enabling convenient storage and use.
Innovation Solution
A circular clipboard system comprising two semicircular panels connected by a hinge mechanism, with mounting straps, clamping and clipping apparatuses, and attachment mechanisms such as magnetic, hook-and-loop, or sticky tape contact mechanisms, allowing secure attachment to the steering wheel and accommodating additional mounting boards for expanded functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mounting straps are used to secure the clipboard system to the steering wheel, then the clipboard system can be easily installed and removed, but the clipboard system may become loose or detach during vehicle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses adjustable straps with buckles that can be dynamically tightened or loosened. The straps wrap around the steering wheel and can be adjusted to fit different steering wheel sizes and shapes, providing both easy installation and secure mounting during vehicle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clipboard system combines multiple mounting straps at different locations on the backside of the clipboard assembly. These straps work together to distribute the mounting force across multiple points on the steering wheel, enhancing both the ease of installation and the reliability of the mounting during vehicle operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment mechanisms are integrated into the clipboard system, then the system can accommodate various items and devices, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clipboard system integrates multiple attachment mechanisms serving different functions: mounting straps for securing to the steering wheel, clamping apparatus for holding documents or tablets, clipping apparatus for attaching smaller items, and magnetic attachment mechanisms for holding metallic objects. Each mechanism is independently designed but collectively provides universal adaptability for various items and devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanisms are segmented into distinct functional modules located at different positions on the clipboard system. The mounting straps are on the backside, while clamping, clipping, and magnetic mechanisms are distributed on the front surface. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system manageability.
3Ease of operation
If the clipboard system is designed with a circular shape and hinge mechanism, then the system can be folded for compact storage, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clipboard system uses a hinge mechanism that allows the circular assembly to dynamically fold along a defined axis. The hinge is positioned at the center of the circular backside, enabling the clipboard to fold into a compact configuration for storage while maintaining the circular shape when deployed. The hinge mechanism accommodates reasonable manufacturing tolerances while providing reliable folding functionality.
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 clipboard system provides a secure, versatile, and convenient solution for attaching and detaching items from the steering wheel, enhancing usability and storage capabilities, while allowing for easy installation and removal, making it suitable for various vehicle types.
Implementation Method 1
The attachment mechanisms enable surface attachment of an item to the clipboard system via at least one of a magnetic contact mechanism
Implementation Method 2
The attachment mechanisms enable surface attachment of an item to the clipboard system via at least one of a magnetic contact mechanism, hook-and-loop contact mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
Steering wheel mountable clipboard systems for vehicles. The clipboard systems are substantially circular in design and of two semicircular halves that are joined by a hinge mechanism at the straight side diameters for folding and opened mounting. The clipboard systems include front surface capture and attachment mechanisms and a bottom edge shelf on which can be set items, and an accessory board for further enhancement features and capabilities. The clipboard systems comprise one or more backside straps for engaging the steering wheel and securing the clipboard thereon. The circular clipboard system may also accommodate a mounting board for additional item and device attachment and usage.