Rugged Computer Docking Station With Shock Isolator And Glove-Operable Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer docking stations for rugged applications face challenges in securely mounting computers in harsh environments, such as off-road vehicles, while protecting electrical connectors from debris and isolating against deep shocks.
Innovation Solution
A docking station with a securing system that allows quick and easy mounting of computers, even with gloves, and a removable cover to protect electrical connectors, along with an isolator assembly to dampen shock, using a securing member with an adjustment mechanism and a wire rope isolator to reduce force transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional securing system is used, then the computer can be mounted to the docking station, but the securing process is complex and difficult to operate, especially for users wearing gloves
Solution Approach 1:
The securing system is divided into separate functional components: a securing member with a projection that interfaces with a recess in the computer, and an adjustment mechanism that independently controls the positioning of the securing member. This segmentation allows the securing function to be simplified while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism enables dynamic positioning of the securing member between a first position (where the projection extends into the recess to secure the computer) and a second position (where the projection does not extend into the recess, allowing computer removal). This dynamic capability simplifies operation by providing clear secure/unsecure states that are easy to distinguish and manipulate even with gloves on.
2Reliability
If the electrical connector is exposed, then the computer can be easily connected and disconnected, but the connector is vulnerable to debris and contaminants in harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
A removable cover is introduced as an intermediary element between the electrical connector and the harsh environment. The cover can be positioned to seal over the connector when the computer is removed from the docking station, protecting it from debris and contaminants. When the computer needs to be connected or disconnected, the cover is simply removed, providing easy access to the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is pre-configured to sealingly engage with the docking station base around the electrical connector. This preliminary preparation ensures that as soon as the computer is removed, the connector is automatically protected by the cover, eliminating the need for additional protective actions and maintaining both protection and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If the docking station is directly mounted to the vehicle, then the mounting is secure, but the docking station and computer are vulnerable to deep shock from off-road terrain
Solution Approach 1:
An isolator assembly is incorporated into the mounting structure to provide beforehand cushioning against shock. The isolator assembly includes isolator elements positioned between the docking station and the vehicle mounting surface, which absorb and dampen shock forces before they can reach the docking station and computer. This preliminary cushioning protection maintains mounting strength while significantly reducing the impact of deep shock from off-road terrain.
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 secure, easy-to-use computer mounting in harsh environments, protects electrical connectors from contaminants, and effectively isolates against shock, ensuring reliable operation in rugged conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an isolator assembly including a first plate configured to be coupled to a support surface, a second plate spaced apart from the first plate and configured to be removably coupled to the computer docking station, and an isolator mechanism disposed between the first plate and the second plate to reduce transmission of forces from the first plate to the second plate
Data Source
AI summary
A computer docking station includes a wall having a first surface, a second surface, and an aperture extending through the wall. A securing member has a body portion configured to be positioned adjacent the first surface of the wall, and a securing projection coupled to the body portion. The securing projection is sized and configured to selectively extend through the aperture in the wall, beyond the second surface, and into a securement recess of a computer to secure the computer to the docking station. An adjustment mechanism is coupled with the body portion of the securing member and is operable to move the securing member relative to the wall between a first position, in which the securing projection is positioned to extend into a securement recess of the computer, and a second position, in which the securing projection is positioned to not extend into the securement recess.