Reconfigurable User Input Device Modular Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user input/output devices, such as kiosks, are limited in functionality, immovable, and require factory support for customization and maintenance, leading to significant downtime during malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, reconfigurable user input/output device with a modular design that allows on-site customization and repair, featuring a unique housing assembly for interchangeable peripherals and easy attachment/detachment, enabling versatile mounting options and self-diagnostic capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing user input/output devices are designed with fixed functionality and factory-sealed configuration, then manufacturing precision and initial reliability are improved, but adaptability and ease of repair deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular functional components (display module, input module, processing unit, peripheral interfaces) that can be independently configured, replaced, or upgraded. Each module connects through standardized interfaces, allowing facilities to customize functionality without compromising overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device configuration is made dynamic and reconfigurable through software-based module activation/deactivation and hot-swappable peripheral connections. This allows the same hardware platform to adapt to different applications while maintaining reliable operation through proven component designs.
2Manufacturing precision
If existing user input/output devices use fixed factory configuration, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and field customization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs segmented modular architecture where core components are precision-manufactured in factories, while field customization is achieved through software configuration and attachment of standardized peripherals. This separates precision manufacturing requirements from customization needs.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal base platform with standardized mechanical and electrical interfaces is manufactured with high precision, while field customization is achieved through software configuration and attachment of various peripheral modules, eliminating the need for precision field modifications.
3Reliability
If existing user input/output devices are sealed and non-reconfigurable, then initial reliability is improved, but ease of repair and downtime reduction deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into replaceable modular components with standardized connection interfaces. When a component fails, it can be quickly detached and replaced without affecting other modules, significantly reducing repair time while maintaining the reliability of functioning components.
Solution Approach 2:
Faulty components are extracted and removed from the system for replacement, allowing rapid repair by isolating and replacing only the defective module rather than servicing the entire sealed device. This maintains system reliability through quick restoration.
4Device complexity
If existing user input/output devices have limited functionality, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A universal base platform with standardized interfaces provides low complexity, while versatility is achieved by attaching different peripheral modules and configuring software for various applications. The same core device can serve multiple functions without increasing inherent complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Complex functionality is segmented into separate peripheral modules rather than integrating everything into the main device. This keeps the core device simple while allowing versatile configuration through module attachment and software setup.
Data Source
AI summary
A readily reconfigurable self-contained self-service user input/output including an input/output assembly accessible by a user, the assembly being readily configurable to be used in more than one type of user configuration or application and at least one peripheral device removably secured in a desired position about the periphery of the assembly.