Rotatable Tray Table Support for In-Flight Device Viewing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional airplane tray tables are limited in functionality and do not accommodate the secure positioning and versatile use of portable electronic devices, failing to provide comfortable and convenient entertainment options for passengers.

Innovation Solution

A versatile support system for portable electronic devices that allows secure mounting and adjustable positioning within a vehicle, featuring a rotatable assembly and separable portions for easy access and maintenance, capable of holding devices of various shapes and sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional tray tables are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but functionality and adaptability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tray table is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a traditional tray table for food and beverages, while also functioning as a support for portable electronic devices through integrated slots and mounting points. This multi-functionality directly addresses the limitation of traditional tray tables by enabling electronic device support without requiring a separate device.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The tray table is divided into separable portions with mounting points that allow different configurations. The slot structure is segmented to accommodate various device sizes and orientations, enabling the table to adapt to different electronic devices while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If tray tables remain in fixed positions, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but passenger comfort and accessibility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepassenger comfortVSAvoidmechanical complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tray table incorporates rotatable mounting points that allow the table to rotate between different positions and orientations. This dynamic capability enables passengers to adjust the tray table to their preferred viewing angle and position, significantly improving comfort and accessibility while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of repair

If tray tables are designed for single use, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but maintenance and hygiene are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance accessibilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tray table is designed with separable portions connected by mounting points, allowing the table to be disassembled into multiple sections. This segmentation enables easy access to interior portions for cleaning and maintenance, while the modular design simplifies repair and replacement of individual components without requiring complete disassembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9168876B2Electronic device support for vehicles
Publication Date: 2015.10.27 SMARTTRAY INTERNATIONAL LLC
  • US9168876B2 patent drawing
  • US9168876B2 patent drawing
  • US9168876B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A support for portable electronic devices increases passenger convenience and comfort. The support may comprise an elongated cavity or slot configured to accept one or more portable electronic devices. The portable electronic devices may be held at various viewing angles relative to the passenger. In some embodiments, the support may be rotatable. In this manner, a passenger may be permitted to adjust the angle at which his or her portable electronic device is positioned. Likewise, an operator or the like may rotate the support for cleaning or other maintenance.