IFE Remote Docking Tray With Fail-Safe Handset Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional docking stations for inflight entertainment systems face issues with the susceptibility of release actuators to wear and damage, leading to challenges in securely retaining and easily releasing the remote control handsets, impacting passenger satisfaction.
Innovation Solution
A docking station apparatus with a storage tray featuring recessed areas and latches, including a resilient release actuator, ensures secure storage and easy retrieval of handsets, even in the event of actuator malfunction, by allowing finger access to the release actuator and incorporating a cable retraction mechanism to prevent tangling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional release actuator mechanism is used in the docking station, then the docking station can release the handset, but the actuator is susceptible to wear and damage leading to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by providing a finger-accessible recessed area that allows manual handset release in case the release actuator mechanism fails. This fail-safe mechanism is built in advance to compensate for potential actuator wear and damage, ensuring the handset can still be retrieved even when the primary release mechanism becomes unreliable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary manual release mechanism where the finger-accessible recessed area serves as a mediator between the user and the handset. When the primary actuator fails, this intermediary mechanism allows direct manual intervention to release the handset from the docking station
2Reliability
If the docking station securely retains the handset, then the handset is safely stored, but it becomes difficult for passengers to retrieve the handset
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the retention and release functions into separate mechanisms: the latch mechanism provides secure retention during storage, while the finger-accessible recessed area provides an independent manual release path. This segmentation allows the system to maintain strong retention while ensuring easy retrieval through different operational paths
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies inversion by providing a manual release mechanism that operates opposite to the automatic latch mechanism. While the latch secures the handset through mechanical engagement, the finger-accessible recessed area allows reverse action by enabling users to manually push or manipulate the handset out, effectively inverting the secure retention function for release purposes
3Reliability
If the release actuator is made more durable, then the actuator reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary manual release mechanism that acts as a backup without requiring complex modifications to the primary actuator. The finger-accessible recessed area serves as a simple geometric intermediary that enables manual intervention, avoiding the need for complex redundant actuator systems while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by enabling passengers to manually release the handset themselves through the finger-accessible recessed area when the actuator fails. This eliminates the need for complex automated backup systems, as the system allows users to service themselves by manually retrieving the handset without requiring additional complex mechanical or electronic components
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
Enhances the reliability and convenience of handset storage by ensuring secure retention and easy retrieval, reducing the impact of actuator failures and improving passenger experience.
Implementation Method 1
The release actuator is resiliently connected to the first latch. Depression of the release actuator retracts the first latch toward the first end surface of the docking station apparatus to release the top surface of the remote control handset. Subsequent release of the release actuator extends the first latch
Data Source
AI summary
A docking station for storing a handset. A storage tray has a first recessed area for storing the handset and a second recessed area for a passenger to grip a top surface of the stored handset. The docking station includes a second latch extended into the second recessed area to engage an indent in the bottom surface of the handset. The docking station includes a first latch extended into the second recessed area to engage an indent located in the front surface of the handset. Depression of a release actuator retracts the first latch to release the top surface of the handset. The release actuator extends through an opening in the first recessed area, which has a length sufficient to allow a finger to actuate the release actuator and grip the top surface of the remote control handset while the remote control handset is stored in the storage tray.