Universal Docking Adapter with Compression Plate

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing docking stations for portable electronic devices face challenges in securely connecting various styles and shapes of docking connectors, modules, plugs, cables, and sockets, leading to unreliable connections, especially in high vibration environments.

Innovation Solution

A docking station with a universal adapter module and an urging mechanism, including a compression plate and threaded members, to securely hold different interfaces with the portable electronic device, ensuring stable connections through a docking tray and interface housing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a variety of different docking connectors, modules, plugs, cables, and sockets are used to support different functions, then the adaptability and versatility of the docking station is improved, but the reliability of the connection deteriorates due to the wide variety of styles and shapes making secure connection difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport for different functionsVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The docking station employs a universal adapter module that can accommodate multiple different connector types (USB, mini-USB, micro-USB, proprietary connectors) through a single standardized interface design. This allows one docking station to support various functions while maintaining reliable connections through consistent mechanical engagement features including spring-loaded contacts, alignment guides, and retention mechanisms that work across all connector variants

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If docking connectors, modules, plugs, cables, and sockets are made compatible with the electronic device, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates in high vibration environments where connections loosen and disconnect

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with electronic deviceVSAvoidconnection stability in vibration

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The docking station incorporates pre-engineered anti-vibration features including spring-loaded connection mechanisms that maintain constant contact pressure, friction-fit retention elements, and mechanical interlocks that prevent disconnection under vibrational stress. These features are built into the adapter module design to counteract the loosening effect of vibration before it can cause disconnection

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The connector interfaces utilize curved or contoured engagement surfaces rather than flat interfaces, allowing for self-centering and more secure mechanical engagement. The curved contact surfaces distribute stress more evenly and maintain better contact under vibrational conditions, preventing the connectors from loosening or disconnecting

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different styles and shapes of docking connectors are supported, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the variety of connector types and mounting mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport for multiple connector stylesVSAvoidvariety of connector types

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 solution provides a reliable and secure connection of different interfaces to the portable electronic device, preventing disconnection even in high vibration environments, such as automobiles, by using a universal adapter module and urging mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

a compression plate positioned within the internal cavity of the housing with a body portion of one of the first and second interfaces between the compression plate and the interface outlet aperture; and a means for urging the compression plate toward the interface outlet aperture, whereby the connection portion of the interface is projected outwardly through the interface outlet aperture

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

the means for urging the compression plate is one or more a threaded members

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 3

An urging mechanism is adapted for urging the seated portable electronic device toward the interface portion of the docking tray and the interface outlet aperture thereof

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS8926349B2Universal adaptor mount for a docking station

Publication Date: 2015.01.06 CARNEVALI JEFFREY D

AI summary

A docking station having a docking tray that is adapted for seating a portable electronic device therein with a docking port of the portable electronic device seated against an interface portion thereof, and the interface portion of the docking tray being formed with an interface outlet aperture positioned for alignment with the docking port of the portable electronic device. A connector retainer is coupleable for releasably urging individual ones of a plurality of different interfaces toward the interface portion of the docking tray and positioning a connection portion thereof adjacent to the interface outlet aperture and directed inwardly of the docking tray. An urging mechanism is adapted for urging the seated portable electronic device toward the interface portion of the docking tray and the interface outlet aperture thereof.