Quick Connect System for Display Mounting and Maintenance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices, such as computer displays, are difficult to install and maintain due to their often concealed positions, and existing quick release mechanisms are cumbersome and hard to actuate, especially when arrays are mounted close together.

Innovation Solution

A quick connect system comprising a docking station and an adapter with a guide element and locking mechanism that securely attaches and detaches electronic devices from a support structure, allowing for easy installation and maintenance by converting standard devices into dockable units with power and data connectivity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If display devices are disposed behind or near the back of a desk against a wall and/or mounted back to back to provide multi-display presentation, then the graphical presentation capability is improved, but access for maintenance and repair is inhibited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-display presentation capabilityVSAvoidaccess for maintenance and repair
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is divided into separate components including a locking arm, cam, and extension members that can independently engage and disengage. This segmentation allows the mechanism to be actuated from one side only, enabling maintenance access while maintaining secure mounting in tight spaces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A cam mechanism acts as an intermediary between the locking arm and extension members, translating the motion of a single actuator into coordinated movement of multiple locking components. This allows complex multi-point locking to be controlled from a single accessible location

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If quick release mechanisms are devised to more easily mount display devices, then the mounting ease is improved, but the mechanisms become difficult to actuate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting easeVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple locking functions (locking arm movement, cam rotation, extension member engagement) are merged into a single actuation action. Pressing one button simultaneously triggers the entire locking sequence, simplifying operation despite the complexity of the underlying mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking arm is preliminarily positioned and biased toward the locked position before actuation. The spring pre-loads the system so that a simple button press completes the locking action, rather than requiring the user to manually manipulate multiple components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Area of stationary object

If arrays of computer displays are disposed in close proximity to each other, then the space utilization is improved, but installation and wired connections become cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidinstallation and wired connections
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter assembly serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical mounting, electrical connectivity, and cable management all in one integrated component. This universal design simplifies installation in tight spaces by eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets and connection components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter is designed to nest within the display device housing, with cables routed through internal channels and connectors positioned to engage with minimal clearance. This nested arrangement allows arrays to be mounted in close proximity while maintaining access for connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS7502226B2Electronic device quick connect system
Publication Date: 2009.03.10 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US7502226B2 patent drawing
  • US7502226B2 patent drawing
  • US7502226B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A quick connect system for an electronic device comprising an adapter couplable to the display device, the adapter configured to cooperate with a docking station to facilitate releasable coupling of the electronic device to the docking station.