Adjustable Tablet Mounting Frame for Stable In-Vehicle Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting devices for tablet PCs are inadequate for stable and secure positioning in diverse environments, particularly during travel, as they are either too fragile, unstable, or incompatible with the larger and heavier form factor of modern tablet PCs, and often obstruct the driver's view or pose safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A flexible mounting apparatus with a suction cup assembly connected to an adjustable frame via cordage, allowing for precise positioning and stabilization of tablet PCs on various surfaces, including non-horizontal ones, while maintaining an upright and forward-facing orientation, and enabling easy removal and reinstallation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid mounting structure is used to secure tablet PC during travel, then stability is improved, but the device occupies excessive space and requires driver to look away from road
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic mounting system with an adjustable arm that can be positioned at various angles and heights, allowing the tablet to be mounted in a location that does not obstruct the driver's view while maintaining stability during travel. The arm can be adjusted to accommodate different driving positions and tablet orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting apparatus extends the tablet positioning into three-dimensional space using an adjustable arm with multiple degrees of freedom, allowing the tablet to be positioned in optimal viewing locations that do not block the driver's forward view, thereby resolving the contradiction between stability and driver safety.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a spring clip mounting means is used to attach to various surfaces, then adaptability is improved, but the mounting security deteriorates on slippery surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mounting means with enhanced gripping capability that acts as an intermediary between the mounting apparatus and various surfaces. This mounting means is designed to adhere securely to different surface types including slippery surfaces, providing reliable attachment while maintaining versatility across multiple surface materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting means incorporates adjustable parameters such as grip strength and adhesion properties that can be modified to suit different surface conditions, allowing the apparatus to maintain secure mounting on both rough and slippery surfaces while preserving adaptability to various environments.
3Ease of operation
If a long gooseneck is used to position the mounted device, then positioning flexibility is improved, but the gooseneck acts as a lever increasing destabilizing force and becomes an obstacle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid long gooseneck with a dynamic positioning system that uses an adjustable arm with controlled movement. This arm provides positioning flexibility through adjustable angles and heights while incorporating stabilization mechanisms that prevent excessive movement and reduce destabilizing forces during travel.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting apparatus allows preliminary adjustment of the tablet position and angle before travel begins, optimizing the configuration for both accessibility and stability. The adjustable arm can be set in a fixed position that provides flexible access to the tablet while minimizing leverage effects during movement.
4Ease of manufacture
If existing mounting devices are used for tablet PC, then ease of assembly is improved, but the devices are too fragile and unstable for tablet PC weight and size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal mounting apparatus with a standardized adjustable arm and mounting means that can accommodate various tablet PC sizes and weights. The structure incorporates reinforced components that provide the necessary strength and stability for heavier tablets while maintaining ease of assembly through a modular design that simplifies installation.
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 apparatus provides stable and secure operation of tablet PCs in diverse environments, including vehicles, by resisting turbulence and vibrations without obstructing the driver's view or increasing clutter, and allows for easy access to the screen during travel.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting means (11) may alternatively comprise a magnet, adhesive, bracket, screws, ball and socket, spring clip, and any other structure tending to achieve attachment to a surface
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides an apparatus for adjustably mounting a tablet PC, portable personal computer, or flat panel video display, which is particularly suited for use during travel and in rugged conditions. The apparatus enables stable and versatile emplacement of a tablet PC by incorporating multiple independent adjustment and attachment elements. A mounting means, such as a suction cup assembly, is attachable to various surfaces and is connected to a hanger from which cordage or straps descend to a suspended frame. The frame features clips, resilient spacers, and adjustable dimensions to securely hold any commercially available tablet PC therein. The frame may further comprise various swappable stabilizer elements to separately regulate the orientation and attachment of the tablet PC to a surface. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus is mounted to a windshield and the frame positions the tablet PC over the center console in an automobile.