Multi-Orientation Docking Cradle With Electronic Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Tethered handheld controllers in passenger vehicles interfere with passenger access and limit mobility due to their fixed connection, causing inconvenience and restricting the range of use.
Innovation Solution
A docking cradle for handheld computing devices that can mount to either vertical or horizontal surfaces, featuring a motorized latch assembly for electronic locking and unlocking, allowing convenient use and access while providing a conductive electrical connection through a spring-loaded pin connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tethered handheld controller is used, then the controller is physically connected and secured to the seat location, but the tethering cable interferes with passenger access and limits the range of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tethering cable from the system by transitioning to a wireless handheld controller that docks with the video display unit without requiring a physical cable connection. This eliminates the harmful tethering cable while maintaining controller security through electronic docking and locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a docking cradle as an intermediary structure that provides secure electronic connection and locking functionality without requiring a physical tethering cable. The docking cradle serves as a mediator between the controller and the video display unit, enabling secure attachment while eliminating cable interference.
2Reliability
If a tethered handheld controller is used, then the controller is secured to the seat location, but the controller range is limited when passenger reclines or moves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic solution where the controller can be freely moved throughout the passenger compartment and only docks with the video display unit when needed. The locking mechanism dynamically engages or disengages based on whether the controller is docked or mobile, providing both security and mobility as required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a wireless communication link between the controller and video display unit that replicates the functionality of a physical cable connection without the physical constraints. This allows the controller to maintain functional connection while being freely movable throughout the vehicle.
3Device complexity
If the cradle and support structure are integrated, then the structure is simplified, but the cradle cannot be separated to provide multiple mounting options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the docking cradle system into separable components: a mounting structure that can be installed in different locations and orientations, and a docking cradle that attaches to the mounting structure. This segmentation allows the same cradle design to be used with various mounting configurations without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the mounting structure and docking cradle as universal components that can be configured in multiple ways. The mounting structure can be installed on seatbacks, tables, or other surfaces in various orientations, and the docking cradle adapts to work with any mounting configuration, providing multi-functionality without requiring multiple specialized designs.
4Device complexity
If a manually actuated button is used to release the controller, then the locking mechanism is simple, but the cradle cannot fully release the controller electronically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an electronic locking mechanism where the docking cradle automatically locks when the controller is placed in it and automatically unlocks when a release signal is received. The system serves itself by detecting controller presence and automatically engaging or disengaging the locking tabs without requiring manual intervention, while still maintaining a simple mechanical locking structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely manual mechanical button-actuated locking mechanism with an electronically controlled locking system. The electronic control signals actuate the locking tabs through an interface circuit board, substituting manual mechanical operation with electronic control while maintaining the underlying mechanical locking structure for reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A docking cradle for a handheld computing device, such as a handheld controller, remote control, tablet computer, smartphone or other electronic device. The docking cradle is configured to be mountable to a horizontal mounting surface (e.g., a table or other horizontal surface), or a vertical mounting surface (e.g., a seatback or wall), while in either mounting orientation, the docking cradle holds the computing device in substantially the same orientation for convenient use and access by a user.