Tablet docking station
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tablet docking stations lack integrated cooling and shading solutions, and do not effectively utilize photovoltaic elements for power generation, while also failing to provide comprehensive environmental control for outdoor usage, such as barbecue settings.
Innovation Solution
A tablet docking station with a spray tubing system for evaporative cooling, a canopy shade with integrated photovoltaic elements, adjustable fan control via a graphical user interface, and a heat sensor for cooking programs, allowing for enhanced user comfort and device functionality during outdoor activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tablet docking station is used for outdoor activities, then user comfort is improved, but the device lacks integrated cooling and shading solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (cooling, shading, power generation) into a single integrated docking station structure. The spray tubing system, canopy shade, and photovoltaic elements are merged with the docking station housing to provide comprehensive environmental control in one device.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides charging through the electrical connector, cooling through the spray tubing system, shading through the canopy shade, and power generation through photovoltaic elements. This multi-functionality addresses the need for adaptability in outdoor settings.
2Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic elements are integrated into the docking station, then power generation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic elements are integrated into the canopy shade structure, merging power generation functionality with the existing shading component. This approach adds power generation capability without requiring a completely separate system, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If spray tubing system is added for cooling, then user comfort is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spray tubing is mounted on the extension arm and can be retracted into the housing when not in use. This nesting approach allows the cooling system to be integrated into the compact docking station structure without permanently increasing the external dimensions or creating a permanently complex appearance.
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 effective cooling, shading, and environmental control, enabling the tablet to manage cooking programs and enhance user experience during outdoor events like barbecues, while utilizing photovoltaic power for sustained operation.
Implementation Method 1
The spray tubing provides a water mist for cooling a user when the spray is activated
Implementation Method 2
A photovoltaic element is preferably formed on an upper surface of the canopy shade. The photovoltaic element provides an electric current for the tablet dock.
Data Source
AI summary
A tablet docking station comprising a tablet dock configured for receiving a tablet, an upper post extending from the tablet dock, and an extension arm extending from the upper post. The spray tubing can be mounted to the extension arm. The spray tubing provides a water mist for cooling a user when the spray is activated. The tablet docking station optionally includes a fan assembly including a fan housing. The spray tubing has one or more spray outlets configured to provide a water mist for evaporative cooling of an area near a user. The tablet docking station may provide an electronic control for the fan assembly providing a fan control speed adjustable by a graphical user interface on the tablet.