Vehicle Tray Table Support With Collapsible Device Cavity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional airplane tray tables are limited in functionality and do not accommodate the secure positioning and versatile use of portable electronic devices, affecting passenger comfort and entertainment during flights.
Innovation Solution
A versatile support system for portable electronic devices that allows secure positioning, rotation, and easy cleaning, featuring a tray table with a sliding wall, collapsible cavity, and biasing mechanism, enabling multiple device support and connectivity options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional tray tables are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the functionality is limited and cannot securely position portable electronic devices
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a traditional food/drink tray table while simultaneously functioning as a secure support for portable electronic devices. The cavity structure and sliding wall mechanism enable the same device to accommodate both traditional tray items and electronic devices with different sizes and shapes, achieving multi-functionality without requiring separate structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable electronic device is received within a cavity formed in the tray table structure. The device nests within the cavity when the sliding wall is in the first position, and can be securely held while maintaining a compact integrated structure. This nesting approach allows the electronic device support to be embedded within the existing tray table framework.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed cavity structure is used, then the device is simple to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate devices of various sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding wall is configured to move between a first position and a second position, dynamically adjusting the cavity dimensions to accommodate portable electronic devices of various sizes and shapes. When the sliding wall is in the first position, it forms a closed cavity that securely holds the device; when in the second position, the cavity opens to allow device insertion or removal. This dynamic adjustment enables versatile device accommodation while maintaining a relatively simple structural design.
3Reliability
If the tray table is designed for secure device positioning, then device stability is improved, but the ease of cleaning and maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding wall mechanism allows the cavity to be opened by moving the sliding wall to the second position, providing easy access for cleaning and maintenance. When cleaning is required, the sliding wall can be moved to open the cavity, allowing debris or damaged components to be removed and replaced. This dynamic opening capability maintains secure device positioning during normal use while enabling easy access for maintenance activities.
4Ease of operation
If a rotatable support is added, then passenger comfort and viewing angles are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable support functionality is merged with the existing tray table structure. The tray table is configured to be rotatable about a vertical axis, allowing passengers to adjust the viewing angle and orientation of their electronic devices. This rotation capability is integrated into the tray table's mounting structure, combining the support function with the rotation mechanism to minimize additional complexity while maximizing passenger comfort and accessibility.
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
Enhances passenger comfort by providing ergonomic device positioning, versatile use, and easy maintenance, while allowing multiple devices to be securely held and connected during travel.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing device may be attached to the sliding wall to bias the sliding wall in a particular direction, such as toward the fixed wall.
Data Source
AI summary
A support for portable electronic devices increases passenger convenience and comfort. The support may comprise a collapsible cavity that accepts one or more portable electronic devices. The cavity is collapsible to help secure a portable electronic device therein or for storage purposes. The portable electronic devices may be held at various viewing angles relative to the passenger. A passenger may be permitted to adjust the angle at which his or her portable electronic device is positioned.