Rotatable Handheld Docking Assembly with Magnetic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional docking assemblies for handheld devices lack stability, maneuverability, and configurability, particularly when users interact with the device's display or attempt to position it in various orientations.
Innovation Solution
A docking assembly featuring a base, a rotatable tube with a dock cup, and locking mechanisms to secure the handle and orient the device, including a magnetic cinching system for stability and tactile feedback, along with an electrical connection assembly for power and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional docking assemblies are used to dock handheld devices, then the device can be positioned, but the assembly lacks sufficient stability when users tap on the display
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly incorporates a spring mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment and absorption of forces. When a user taps on the handheld device display, the spring compresses to absorb the impact force, then returns to its original position, providing continuous stability while allowing necessary movements and interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is pre-positioned in a compressed or tensioned state to provide cushioning before any impact occurs. This beforehand cushioning prepares the system to absorb tapping forces on the display, preventing instability while maintaining ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional docking assemblies are used, then the device can be docked, but the assembly does not enable positioning in certain orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly is divided into modular components including a base, a tube, a rotatable dock cup, and locking assemblies. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function - the tube provides structural support, the dock cup enables rotation, and the locking assemblies secure orientations - collectively achieving multi-orientation positioning without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The dock cup is designed to be rotatable relative to the tube, enabling dynamic repositioning of the handheld device to various orientations. The locking assembly then freezes the desired orientation, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple structural design.
3Ease of operation
If conventional docking assemblies are used, then the device can be docked, but the assembly provides inadequate maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism and rotatable dock cup work together to provide maneuverability. The spring allows the assembly to flex and adjust during insertion and positioning, while the rotatable dock cup enables orientation changes. The locking assembly then secures the device in the desired position, ensuring reliability after the maneuvering phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-loaded and the locking assembly is designed to engage automatically or with minimal user action. This preliminary preparation allows for easy maneuverability during docking while ensuring that stability is established before the user completes the docking action.
4Reliability
If a locking assembly is added to prevent handle removal, then security is improved, but the assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly is integrated with the existing tube and dock cup structure rather than being a completely separate component. The locking mechanism utilizes the same rotational movement of the dock cup, combining the security function with the existing maneuverability feature, thereby improving device security while minimizing the increase in overall assembly complexity.
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
The solution provides enhanced stability and configurability, allowing the handheld device to be securely positioned in multiple orientations while enabling easy insertion and removal, with a magnetic system that prevents the device from falling and tactile feedback for user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic cinching system for stability and tactile feedback, along with an electrical connection assembly for power and communication
Data Source
AI summary
A docking assembly for a handheld device comprising a handle and associated methods are disclosed herein. The docking assembly may include a base, a tube extending from the base, and a dock cup in rotatable communication with the tube. The dock cup may be configured to mate with the handle. The docking assembly also may include an electrical connection assembly configured to mate with the handle when the handle is positioned within the dock cup. Moreover, the docking assembly may include a first locking assembly configured to lock the handle in the dock cup to prevent the handle from being removed from the dock cup, and a second locking assembly configured to lock the orientation of the dock cup to prevent rotation of the dock cup.