Oblique Docking Mechanism for Vehicle Remote Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional docking mechanisms for remote devices in vehicles, such as touch pads and keyboards, are cumbersome for insertion and removal due to their reliance on mechanical latches, requiring linear motion and awkward handling.
Innovation Solution
A docking and undocking mechanism that utilizes a docking body with a docking cavity and access cavity for oblique insertion and removal, combined with magnetic coupling that adjusts based on user proximity and vehicle conditions, allowing for easy and ergonomic handling of remote devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical latches are used to secure the remote device, then the device is securely attached to the docking station, but the insertion and removal operations become awkward and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical latches with a magnetic coupling system. Magnets embedded in the docking station and corresponding magnetic elements in the remote device create secure attachment through magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for mechanical latching mechanisms. This substitution maintains reliable attachment while enabling easy insertion and removal through simple approach and separation motions.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking interface is segmented into separate magnetic coupling zones and access zones. The magnetic coupling provides secure attachment when docked, while the access cavity provides a separate zone for easy hand insertion and removal operations. This segmentation allows independent optimization of securing strength and operational ease.
2Ease of operation
If the remote device is positioned closer to the driver to shorten reach, then user accessibility is improved, but the docking mechanism becomes more susceptible to unwanted ejection during vehicle movement
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system provides continuous attractive force that securely holds the remote device in position, resisting unwanted ejection during vehicle movement. The magnetic force can be designed to provide sufficient holding strength while allowing intentional removal when the user approaches with proper motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling strength can be dynamically adjusted based on vehicle motion conditions. During normal operation, strong magnetic attraction prevents unwanted ejection. When vehicle acceleration or vibration exceeds certain thresholds, the magnetic force can be modulated to prevent accidental disengagement while maintaining secure attachment during steady-state driving.
3Reliability
If magnetic coupling strength is increased to prevent unwanted ejection, then secure attachment is improved, but user effort for removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system allows for controlled reduction of magnetic force when a user approaches the remote device. Sensors detect user proximity and trigger a reduction in magnetic coupling strength, enabling easy removal with minimal user effort. When the user is not present, full magnetic strength prevents unwanted ejection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect user proximity and provides feedback control of the magnetic coupling strength. When a user approaches within a certain distance, the system automatically reduces magnetic attraction to facilitate easy removal. This feedback mechanism dynamically adjusts the force required for removal based on user presence, maintaining secure attachment during normal operation while enabling easy user interaction.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure, ergonomic, and convenient insertion and removal of remote devices using an oblique motion, reducing user effort and preventing unwanted ejection during vehicle movements, while ensuring secure attachment during driving.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling apparatus for magnetically coupling the body of the remote device to at least a portion of the docking body
Implementation Method 2
The control signal may be generated or based on the sensed condition meeting or exceeding a predetermined parameter. Furthermore, the systems and apparatuses include a coupling apparatus for magnetically coupling the body of the remote device to at least a portion of the docking body. The coupling apparatus may be configured to modify the strength of the magnetic coupling based on the control signal
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, system and method for docking and/or undocking a remote device, A docking body includes a docking cavity and an access cavity, for providing lateral support, guidance and access for the remote device. Communications is configured to receive a control signal based on a sensed condition, wherein the sensed condition may include a proximity and/or position of a user's hand relative to the docking body, and/or an operating parameter of a vehicle. A coupling apparatus is provided for magnetically coupling the body of the remote device to at least a portion of the docking body. The coupling apparatus may be configured to modify the strength of the magnetic coupling based on the control signal to assist in insertion/removal. Under illustrative configurations, the docking body and the coupling apparatus allow for oblique insertion and oblique removal of the body of the remote device.