Under-Cabinet Docking Mount for Space-Saving Touchscreen Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional docking solutions for touch screen devices, such as table-top stands and wall-mounted docking stations, occupy valuable space and require cumbersome wired connections, either taking up counter or wall space or requiring routing of cables through walls.
Innovation Solution
An under-cabinet mounted control system that includes a mounting bracket for portable touch screen devices, a docking connector for electrical mating, and a processor for interfacing with remote systems, along with communication means and external buttons, allowing the device to be positioned flexibly and connected without occupying valuable space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If table-top stands are used for docking touch screen devices, then the devices can be charged and connected to networks, but valuable table or counter space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is moved from the horizontal surface (table top) to the vertical surface (wall), utilizing unused vertical space. The mounting bracket attaches to the wall, allowing the docking station to be positioned vertically without occupying horizontal table or counter space, thus resolving the space conflict while maintaining device charging and connectivity functions
2Area of stationary object
If wall-mounted docking stations are used for touch screen devices, then table or counter space is saved, but wall space is required and cables must be routed through walls
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates a movable arm that can be adjusted to different positions and angles, allowing flexible cable routing paths. This dynamic adjustment capability enables installers to route cables through various paths (along the wall surface, through conduits, or behind fixtures) without requiring complex wall penetration work, thus reducing installation complexity while saving table space
3Reliability
If table-top stands are used, then wired connections can be established, but the connections require routing across the table surface
Solution Approach 1:
By relocating the docking station from horizontal table surface to vertical wall mounting, the cable routing path changes from crossing the table surface to running along the wall surface or behind wall-mounted fixtures. This dimensional change simplifies cable management by utilizing the wall's vertical space and backing structure, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable wired connections
Data Source
AI summary
Presented is an under-cabinet mounted control system for a portable touch screen device. The control system includes a processor configured for providing an interface between the portable touch screen device and one or more remote systems, and a mounting bracket configured to be mounted under a cabinet, shelf, table, or counter. The control system further includes a touch screen mounting member moveably coupled to the mounting bracket. The touch screen mounting member is configured to releasably hold the portable touch screen device. The control system further includes a docking connector configured for electrically mating with the portable touch screen device and establishing electrical communication between the processor and the portable touch screen device, and a communication means configured for establishing communication between the processor the one or more remote systems.