Vehicle Ceiling Tablet Holder with Suction Couplers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tablet holding devices for vehicles lack a secure and versatile solution for suspending electronic tablets from ceilings, particularly in vehicles that transport children, as they often require multiple adjustments and do not accommodate various tablet sizes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A tablet holding device featuring a panel with track slots, pivotally coupled arms that engage the ceiling, suction cup couplers for secure attachment, and adjustable clamping units to support and retain electronic tablets at various angles and sizes, allowing for easy deployment and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a tablet holding device uses a fixed mounting structure, then it is simple to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate various tablet sizes effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability through track slots that allow clamping units to move along predefined paths, enabling the device to adapt to different tablet sizes and positions while maintaining structural integrity through guided motion constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure is divided into modular components including separate arms, couplers, and clamping units that can independently adjust and combine in various configurations to accommodate different tablet dimensions without requiring complete structural redesign
2Adaptability or versatility
If a tablet holding device requires multiple adjustments for proper positioning, then it can accommodate different tablet sizes, but it increases the time and complexity of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The track slots are pre-configured with detent positions that anticipate common tablet sizes and viewing angles, allowing users to quickly snap clamping units into predetermined optimal positions without requiring complex real-time calculations or multiple trial adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides continuous adjustability along track slot paths combined with discrete detent stopping points, enabling users to make single-step adjustments to reach optimal positions rather than requiring multiple sequential adjustments
3Reliability
If a tablet holding device uses a secure engagement mechanism with the ceiling, then it provides stable suspension, but it may require complex coupling structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical fastening systems with suction cup-based couplers that achieve secure engagement through atmospheric pressure differential, eliminating the need for screws, clips, or interlocking mechanical features while maintaining reliable attachment to vehicle ceilings
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 device provides a secure, adjustable, and versatile solution for suspending electronic tablets from vehicle ceilings, accommodating different sizes and angles, ensuring clear visibility for occupants while allowing for easy storage and removal.
Implementation Method 1
A pair of first couplers is each of the first couplers is coupled to a respective one of the arms to releasably engage the ceiling of the vehicle. A pair of second couplers is each of the second couplers is coupled to the panel to releasably engage the ceiling of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A tablet holding assembly includes a panel that has a pair of track slots therein. A pair of arms is each pivotally coupled to and extends upwardly from the panel to releasably engage a ceiling in a vehicle. A pair of first couplers is each of the first couplers is coupled to a respective one of the arms to releasably engage the ceiling of the vehicle. A pair of second couplers is each of the second couplers is coupled to the panel to releasably engage the ceiling of the vehicle when the panel is positioned in a stored position. A pair of supports is each of the supports is coupled to the panel to support an electronic tablet on the panel. A pair of clamping units is each movably coupled to the panel to engage the electronic tablet.