Pivoting Workstation Panel for Secure Laptop Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In environments like conference centers, there is a need for a work surface that can securely store a laptop while providing connectivity options like power and data, as traditional surfaces lack these features and pose a risk of theft due to limited space and connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A convertible workstation that transforms from a flat work surface into a secure computer workstation, featuring a pivotable support panel and tray with integrated power and data connections, and a locking mechanism to secure the laptop, allowing for secure storage and use while maintaining connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional work surface is used in conference centers, then it provides a flat surface for writing and note-taking, but it lacks computer connectivity features and secure storage for laptops
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation employs a dynamic convertible mechanism where the support panel can pivot between a horizontal work surface position and an inclined computer workstation position. This dynamic transformation allows the same structure to serve multiple functions, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity by using a single movable component rather than separate static structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The convertible workstation integrates multiple functions into a single device: it serves as both a traditional work surface for writing and note-taking, and as a computer workstation with secure storage, connectivity ports, and ergonomic positioning. This multi-functionality directly addresses the need for adaptability while consolidating features that would otherwise require separate devices.
2Ease of operation
If a laptop is left unattended on a work surface at a conference center, then it provides easy access for the user, but it becomes vulnerable to theft
Solution Approach 1:
The laptop is stored within a compartment that is nested inside the support panel structure. When the workstation is in work surface mode, the laptop resides in a secure compartment beneath the surface, providing physical security while maintaining user accessibility through the convertible mechanism. This nesting approach resolves the contradiction by embedding the laptop within the structure rather than leaving it exposed.
Solution Approach 2:
The convertible mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user and the laptop. To access the laptop, the user must transform the workstation from work surface mode to computer workstation mode, which involves activating the locking mechanism and pivoting the panel. This intermediary step provides security while maintaining controlled accessibility.
3Productivity
If a desktop computer setup is provided at a conference center, then it offers full computer functionality, but it consumes valuable space that could be used as work surface
Solution Approach 1:
The invention utilizes the vertical dimension by pivoting the support panel from a horizontal work surface orientation to an inclined computer workstation orientation. This dimensional transformation allows the laptop and computer components to be positioned in three-dimensional space rather than requiring a large horizontal footprint, thus preserving work surface area while maintaining full computer functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer components including the laptop, keyboard tray, and connectivity ports are nested within the support panel structure. This nesting eliminates the need for separate peripheral devices that would consume additional space, allowing the computer functionality to be integrated into the compact workstation structure without sacrificing work surface area.
4Reliability
If a convertible workstation with locking mechanism is used, then it provides security for the laptop, but it increases the complexity of the device
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the convertible mechanism itself. The same structural components that enable the panel to pivot and transform between modes also provide the locking function. This integration resolves the contradiction by combining security functionality with the existing convertible structure rather than adding a separate, complex locking system.
Data Source
AI summary
A convertible workstation is convertible from a generally flat, planar work surface to a computer workstation. A support panel is pivotably mounted within the work surface and holds a support tray configured for holding a portable computer, such as a laptop computer. When closed, the convertible workstation provides a secure environment for storing a computer and a traditional work surface. When opened, the convertible workstation provides an ergonomically configured computer workstation. The convertible workstation may provide computer connections, for instance power, data, and/or other computer connections, both when the workstation is configured as a computer workstation and when configured as a work surface (thus storing the computer within the workstation).