Integrated Docking Connector for Mobile IHS Space Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for docking mobile information handling systems result in a cluttered appearance due to the need for multiple cables and a dedicated docking station, which consumes space and is cumbersome to manage.

Innovation Solution

A mobile information handling system docking apparatus with a base featuring a display device and an integrated docking connector, allowing for secure and cable-free connection of the mobile system, utilizing a stand-alone design that reduces space requirements and eliminates the need for multiple cables.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate cables are used to connect the mobile information handling system to display devices and peripheral devices, then the connection functionality is achieved, but the appearance becomes cluttered and space is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection functionalityVSAvoidspace consumption and clutter
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate cables (video, power, mouse, keyboard) into a single integrated docking connector. The base unit houses all connection interfaces internally, allowing the mobile information handling system to connect to display devices and peripheral devices through one unified connection rather than multiple separate cables, thereby reducing clutter and space consumption while maintaining full connection functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The docking connector serves multiple functions simultaneously - it provides video output, power connection, and peripheral device connectivity through a single interface. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized cables for each function, achieving versatility without increasing space requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a docking station with multiple cables is used to connect the mobile information handling system, then easy and quick connection is achieved, but the cluttered appearance and space requirements remain

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection easeVSAvoidspace consumption and clutter
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates all docking station functionality into a single compact base unit with an unified connector. Instead of requiring a large docking station housing multiple separate cable connections, the invention combines all interfaces into one streamlined connection point that maintains ease of operation while dramatically reducing the space and clutter associated with traditional docking stations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate cables are provided for connecting the mobile information handling system, then comprehensive device connectivity is achieved, but the connection and disconnection process requires time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice connectivityVSAvoidconnection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple connection operations into a single action. By integrating video, power, and peripheral connections into one unified docking connector, the system allows all connections to be established or disconnected simultaneously through a single plug-and-unplug motion, maintaining comprehensive device connectivity while reducing connection time from multiple separate actions to one unified action

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7471511B2Method and apparatus for docking a mobile information handling system
Publication Date: 2008.12.30 DELL PROD LP
  • US7471511B2 patent drawing
  • US7471511B2 patent drawing
  • US7471511B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mobile information handling system (IHS) docking apparatus includes a base having a display device. An IHS docking connector is located on the base. A mobile IHS may be secured to the base and connected to the IHS docking connector in order to utilize the mobile IHS as a conventional desktop IHS while reducing the space and cables required by conventional mobile IHS docking stations.