USB Interface Integrated into Transport Vehicle Grab Bar

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing USB interfaces in public transport vehicles occupy valuable space and are not easily accessible to passengers, as they require dedicated equipment that encroaches on passenger capacity and space.

Innovation Solution

USB interfaces are integrated into existing grab bars, with dimensions similar to stop button boxes, allowing for multiple installations along these bars without compromising passenger space, featuring removable fixing means and a support box design that allows easy access and replacement of USB sockets.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If USB interfaces are provided as dedicated equipment in the vehicle, then passengers can recharge electronic devices, but the passenger capacity and space are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess to USB interfaceVSAvoidpassenger space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The USB interface is merged with the existing grab bar structure. The housing is fixed to the retaining bar, and the USB socket is integrated into the same space where the stop button box previously resided. This combining of functions allows the USB interface to be provided without adding dedicated equipment that would encroach on passenger space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If multiple USB interfaces are installed to serve more passengers, then accessibility is improved, but the vehicle space is further reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess to USB interfaceVSAvoidnumber of installations

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The grab bar structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for passengers, and simultaneously houses USB interfaces for charging devices. The same retaining bar that previously held only a stop button box now accommodates both the stop button box and USB interface, or can be replaced entirely by a USB interface. This multi-functionality allows multiple USB interfaces to be installed without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Area of stationary object

If the USB interface is made compact to fit in limited space, then passenger capacity is preserved, but the ease of repair and replacement is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace occupied by USB interfaceVSAvoidreplacement of USB socket

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The USB interface is segmented into modular components: a housing fixed to the retaining bar and a removable part containing the USB socket. The removable part can be easily detached by unscrewing two needle screws, allowing the USB socket to be replaced without affecting the wiring connections or the fixed housing. This segmentation enables easy repair while maintaining a compact overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3244508B1An USB interface for recharging an electronic device, intended to equip a transport vehicle

Publication Date: 2022.02.16 ALSTOM TRANSPORT TECH SAS

Figure 1~2

AI summary

The USB interface (10) comprises: - an electronic component (14) including at least one USB socket (16), and connector elements suitable for connecting each USB socket (16) to a cable, and - a support housing (18), shaped to be fixed on the support bar (16) of the transport vehicle, and including a housing (20) for the electronic component (14).