Smart Device Docking Hinge Arm and Turntable Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a docking apparatus that securely mounts smart devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to host devices like laptops and e-Readers, allowing for simultaneous utilization and management, as well as secure transport together.
Innovation Solution
A docking apparatus comprising a base plate with a turntable and hinge clips, where the smart device mount is secured to a hinge arm that can pivot and swivel, enabling the smart device to be positioned in various orientations relative to the host device, using torsion springs and rubber bumpers for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a docking apparatus mounts a smart device to a host device, then the smart device can be securely retained and positioned, but the apparatus requires multiple moving parts (hinge clips, turntable, hinge arm) that may reduce reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge clips are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to pivot between an open position for insertion and a closed position for securing the smart device. This dynamic mechanism enables secure retention while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the smart device mount is secured to a hinge arm that can pivot and swivel, then the smart device can be positioned in various orientations, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is divided into separate functional segments: hinge clips for attachment to the host device, a turntable for rotational positioning, and a hinge arm for angular adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving versatile positioning while keeping the overall design modular and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge arm incorporates pivotal joints that allow it to rotate and swivel, enabling the smart device to be positioned in multiple orientations. The dynamic nature of these joints provides adaptability without requiring a complex fixed structure.
3Reliability
If hinge clips are resiliently biased towards the base plate by a spring, then the smart device can be securely attached, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded hinge clips automatically bias themselves towards the base plate, creating a self-adjusting mounting mechanism. When the smart device is inserted, the clips naturally close and secure it without requiring additional actuation or complex control mechanisms, achieving secure attachment through self-service operation.
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
Enables secure and versatile mounting of smart devices to host devices, allowing for convenient use and transport, with the ability to reposition the smart device between portrait and landscape orientations, and secure it back-to-back against the host device for safe handling.
Implementation Method 1
resiliently biased towards the base plate by a spring
Data Source
AI summary
A docking apparatus is provided. The docking apparatus includes a host mount and a smart device mount. The host mount includes a base plate. At least one hinge clip is pivotally secured to the base plate by a binder post. The hinge clip is resiliently biased towards the base plate by a spring. A turn table is secured to an upper surface of the base plate and rotatable about a first axis. A hinge arm includes a first end pivotally attached to an upper surface of the turn table. The first end is rotatable about a second axis, such as a horizontal axis, substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The smart device mount is secured to a second end of the hinge arm and is operable to releasably retain a smart device.