Multi-Tablet Docking Storage With Charging and Network Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for effective systems to store, charge, and network multiple tablet computing devices efficiently, as existing solutions often fail to provide comprehensive and adaptable solutions for managing and connecting these devices in a unified manner.

Innovation Solution

A tablet storage device with a frame that can be mounted to a vertical or horizontal surface, featuring slots for multiple tablets, a power supply system for charging, and a network connection system for connectivity, including options for wireless and wired connections, and adaptable docking stations to accommodate different tablet models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple tablets are stored in a unified storage system, then device management efficiency is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice management efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions (storage, charging, networking, and device control) into a single unified docking station system. The frame structure integrates multiple slots for holding tablets, power supply systems for charging, and network connection systems for connectivity, allowing centralized management of multiple devices through one system rather than separate individual setups.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The docking station is designed with universal compatibility to accommodate different tablet models and sizes through adjustable slots and adaptable connection interfaces. The power supply system can charge multiple devices simultaneously, and the network connection system provides unified network access to all connected tablets, making the system versatile for managing diverse device portfolios.

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

2Loss of time

If power supply system charges multiple tablets simultaneously, then charging time is reduced, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging timeVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The power supply system is designed to automatically detect and prioritize charging for multiple tablets simultaneously upon insertion, eliminating the need for sequential charging. The system pre-configures power distribution channels and can begin charging multiple devices at once, reducing total charging time while managing energy draw through intelligent load distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The power supply system dynamically adjusts power distribution parameters based on the specific charging needs of connected tablets. It can modify voltage and current output to each device according to their battery requirements, enabling efficient simultaneous charging while optimizing overall energy consumption through adaptive parameter control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If network connection system provides wired connections, then connection stability is improved, but device adaptability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoiddevice adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The network connection system incorporates both wired and wireless connectivity capabilities within the same docking station. Wired connections (such as Ethernet ports) provide stable, high-speed network access for tablets that require reliable connectivity, while wireless options (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) offer flexibility for devices that need mobility or lack wired ports, making the system adaptable to various device types and connection preferences.

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

Data Source

PatentUS9298225B2Tablet storage device
Publication Date: 2016.03.29 ERGOTRON INC
  • US9298225B2 patent drawing
  • US9298225B2 patent drawing
  • US9298225B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tablet storage device includes a frame having a plurality of slots, at least one of which is adapted to hold a tablet. A docking station can be disposed in at least one slot. In some cases the docking station is configured to align a tablet as the tablet is positioned in the slot such that a corresponding port in the tablet aligns with, and connects to, a connector. The frame also has a surface to attach the device to a vertical surface and can have a door that can be moved from an open to a closed position and adapted to retain at least one tablet held within at least one slot when the door is closed. A power supply system and/or a network connection system can be provided with the tablet storage device.