Lockable Charging Compartment with Cleaning for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for portable and secure charging solutions for mobile devices that also allow for concurrent cleaning and sanitizing, especially in public areas where devices are frequently used and exposed to harsh conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an AC-connectable device, such as a multifunction printer, with a charging area and power source that includes a lockable compartment for securing mobile devices, along with user-defined authentication codes for secure access, and optional mechanisms for cleaning, sanitizing, and drying, allowing for simultaneous charging and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lockable compartment with authentication codes is implemented, then device security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The AC-connectable device integrates multiple functions including charging, cleaning, sanitizing, and locking mechanisms into a single system. The lockable compartment shares space with charging areas and cleaning mechanisms, allowing one device to perform security, power, and maintenance functions simultaneously, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite added security features
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the locking mechanism with the charging and cleaning systems by integrating the lockable compartment as part of the same housing that contains charging ports and cleaning mechanisms. This merging of functions into a unified system reduces the number of separate components needed, offsetting the complexity increase from adding authentication features
2Productivity
If concurrent charging and cleaning mechanisms are integrated, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous useful action by allowing cleaning operations to occur simultaneously with charging operations. While the mobile device is being charged, the cleaning mechanism operates concurrently to sanitize and dry the device surface, maximizing productivity by eliminating idle time and ensuring both functions complete without interruption
Solution Approach 2:
The AC-connectable device serves as a multi-functional station that simultaneously provides charging power, cleaning mechanisms, and sanitizing capabilities. This consolidation of multiple functions into one device improves productivity by allowing users to complete both charging and cleaning tasks at a single location without requiring separate equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A system for securely storing and charging a mobile device includes an AC-connectable device, such as a multi-function printer or photocopier, having a charging area and a power source, wherein a mobile device such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, an e-reader or a portable rechargeable battery pack, is charged by placing the mobile device in the charging area and attaching the device to the power source. The charging area allows for the mobile device to be secured to or within the AC-connectable device. The mobile device may also be used to power the AC-connectable device when it is not connected to an AC power source. The system also optionally provides for cleaning, sanitizing or drying of the mobile device while it is in the charging area.