Modular Technology Furniture for Integrated Classroom Computing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current classroom setups face challenges in integrating computers as a seamless tool due to space requirements and the lack of modular furniture systems that can easily house and upgrade electronic components, limiting their accessibility and usability for students and educators.
Innovation Solution
A modular furniture system that integrates electronic components such as motherboards, display devices, and input devices within traditional office furniture components, allowing for intuitive access, upgradeability, and scalability, with a power system and computer buses for seamless data transmission and power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If computers are deployed as separate work stations or laptops, then computer functionality is provided, but additional space requirements and setup arrangements are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the computer system with traditional furniture components, integrating the motherboard, display device, input device, and power system into a single furniture unit. This combination eliminates the need for separate computer workstations and reduces the space required while maintaining full computer functionality and ease of access.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional furniture is used without integration, then furniture functionality is provided, but computer components cannot be easily housed or upgraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the furniture into distinct modular components including a motherboard housing, display device housing, input device housing, and power system housing. Each component can be independently accessed, upgraded, or replaced while maintaining the overall furniture structure, thus providing adaptability without excessive complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If computers are integrated into furniture, then space efficiency is improved, but access to electronic components may become less intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests electronic components within furniture components in a hierarchical manner, with the motherboard housed within the furniture structure, the display device mounted on the furniture, and the input device positioned for easy access. This nesting arrangement maintains space efficiency while ensuring intuitive access to all electronic components through the furniture's natural interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems are disclosed that relate to modular furniture capable of providing conventional desk functions as well as integrated electronic components which house, store, and operate electronic devices, such as computers and associated devices. Furniture components of a traditional office are adapted to house a plurality of electronic components of a traditional computer system. Connectors, expansion slots, networking capabilities, and other storage units are provided within the furniture components enabling several electronic devices to be installed within the furniture components and communicate with each other, integrating a fully functional computer system into a classroom or office desk. The disclosed modular furniture systems provide multiple resources and functions in a small footprint and are useable in a variety of school, personal and work settings.