Vehicle Tray Table Slot Mount for Adjustable Device Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional airplane tray tables are limited in functionality and do not allow for secure, versatile, or ergonomic positioning of portable electronic devices, restricting passenger entertainment and comfort during flights and other vehicular travel.
Innovation Solution
A versatile support system for portable electronic devices that includes a tray table with a slot mechanism and rotatable assembly, allowing secure positioning and easy cleaning, capable of accommodating various device sizes and providing adjustable angles for optimal viewing and use.
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 hold 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 mounting system for portable electronic devices. The slot mechanism and presser assembly enable the same structure to hold both conventional items and electronic devices firmly in place, making the tray table universal in its applicability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray table structure is segmented into distinct functional components: the body with slot, the presser assembly with biasing device, and the mounting mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall versatility of the system.
2Reliability
If a secure mounting mechanism is added to the tray table, then portable electronic devices can be held firmly, but the ease of cleaning and maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The presser assembly is designed to be removable from the tray table body. This extraction capability allows the presser to be easily taken out for cleaning or replacement without disassembling the entire tray table structure, maintaining ease of maintenance while providing secure positioning when installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing device automatically maintains pressure on the portable electronic device through spring force, providing self-adjusting secure positioning. The system requires minimal manual intervention to maintain its function, and the removable presser allows for easy cleaning without complex disassembly procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tray table is designed to accommodate various device sizes, then versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slot in the tray table body is designed with specific dimensional characteristics that accommodate various device sizes. The slot width, depth, and shape are optimized to fit different portable electronic devices while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The presser assembly complements this by providing adjustable pressure to secure devices of varying dimensions.
4Ease of operation
If a rotatable assembly is added to allow angle adjustment, then passenger comfort and viewing options are improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table incorporates a rotatable assembly that allows the table surface to be adjusted to different angles. This dynamic adjustment capability enables passengers to find comfortable viewing positions for their electronic devices while maintaining a relatively straightforward manufacturing process using standard rotational joint components.
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 and entertainment by securely holding and positioning portable electronic devices at desired angles, improving usability and maintaining cleanliness, while being easily stowed when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing device is connected to the presser that forces the presser towards the first wall
Data Source
AI summary
A support for portable electronic devices increases passenger convenience and comfort. The support may comprise an elongated cavity or slot configured to accept one or more portable electronic devices. The slot 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. Likewise, an operator or the like may rotate the support for cleaning or other maintenance.