Modular Docking Station Latching Mechanism for Ruggedized Tablets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ruggedized tablet computers face challenges in secure docking within hostile environments while maintaining access to interfaces, as conventional docking stations are not suitable for their form factor and often require removal of handstraps, which is inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A modular docking station system with a latching mechanism and retainer that allows secure attachment and detachment of tablet computers without removing handstraps, featuring a pivotable actuator and latch system for easy engagement and disengagement, and a connection surface for various cradle sizes to adapt to different devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional docking station is used for ruggedized tablet computers, then the tablet can be docked, but the hand strap cannot be accommodated and secure holding in hostile environments is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is divided into a cradle portion and a module portion that can be selectively assembled. The module contains the latching mechanism and can be attached to different cradle configurations, allowing adaptation to various tablet sizes and hand strap arrangements while maintaining secure docking functionality in hostile environments
Solution Approach 2:
The module is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple cradle types and configurations. The standardized interface and adaptable latching mechanism allow the same module to securely dock different ruggedized tablet models with varying hand strap positions, providing both versatility and reliable secure holding
2Reliability
If a docking station is specifically designed for one size and type of tablet computer, then secure docking is achieved, but manufacturing costs increase and adaptation to other devices requires complete redesign
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is segmented into a standardized module and configurable cradle portions. This allows the expensive, complex latching mechanism to be produced once and reused across multiple device configurations, while only the simpler cradle portions need to be adapted for different tablet sizes and types, significantly reducing manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station employs a dynamic, reconfigurable architecture where modules can be selectively attached and detached from different cradle configurations. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to securely dock various tablet types without requiring complete redesign, maintaining reliability while improving ease of manufacture
3Reliability
If a two-step positioning procedure is used to dock the mobile computer, then secure docking is achieved, but the docking process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle portion is pre-configured with guide features and positioning elements that automatically align the tablet with the module during insertion. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for manual two-step positioning, allowing users to simply insert and remove tablets easily while maintaining secure docking through the automated latching mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a docking station module for a computer docking station. The docking station module comprises a latching mechanism, the latching mechanism comprising a latch moveable between an unlatched position and a latched position, and a retainer moveable between a blocking position and an unblocked position. In the blocking position the retainer prevents movement of the latch to the unlatched position and in the unblocked position movement of the latch to the unlatched position is permitted. An actuator moves the retainer between the blocking and unblocked position. A connection surface is configured to enable the docking station module to be connected to a docking station cradle.