Mobile Computing Device Tether System for Shared-Access Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices are prone to being accidentally or purposely carried away from their intended location, making them unavailable for multiple users when they need to remain stationary for tasks.
Innovation Solution
A tether system comprising a tether cord, a base, and a coupling apparatus that secures the mobile computing device to a fixed structure, using a cylindrical spacer and cap screw to prevent removal, ensuring the device remains at the intended location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the mobile computing device is made mobile and portable, then it can be carried around by individuals, but it cannot stay in one location for multiple users to use
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions the device between mobile and stationary states. The tether cord allows the device to be moved when needed while automatically returning it to the base station for shared access, enabling adaptability between portability and stationary availability modes
2Reliability
If the mobile computing device is tethered to a base, then it remains at the intended location for multiple users, but it cannot be carried off by users
Solution Approach 1:
The tether system is not permanent but dynamic - the device can be removed from the base when a single user needs it, then returned for shared access. This creates a dynamic balance between mobility for individual use and stationary availability for multiple users
3Reliability
If the mobile computing device is securely tethered to prevent removal, then it cannot be lost or stolen, but it requires a coupling apparatus to secure it
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling apparatus acts as an intermediary component that provides secure attachment without modifying the device itself. It serves as a mediator between the tether cord and the device, enabling secure tethering while maintaining device integrity and simplifying the overall system architecture
Data Source
AI summary
A tether system is described that tethers a mobile computing device to a base. The tether system allows the mobile computing device to be used by individuals, but does not allow the mobile computing device to be moved further away from the base than the length of the tether. The tether system includes a tether cord with a first end coupled to the base, and a second end coupled to a coupling apparatus. The base can be a fixed structure, or can be coupled to a fixed structure, at the location where the mobile computing device is kept. The coupling apparatus is coupled to the mobile computing device. With the coupling apparatus coupling one end of the tether cord to the mobile computing device, and the other end of the tether cord coupled to the base, the tether system couples the mobile computing device to the base.