Variable Security Latching Mechanism for Portable Device Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support apparatus for portable electronic devices, such as cradles and docking stations, have limited locking mechanisms that only permanently secure devices until disengaged by a correct combination or key, lacking flexibility in security levels and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A support apparatus with a latching element that is resiliently biased to automatically latch devices, combined with a plunger-type security mechanism that allows for variable security configurations, including a lock element requiring a combination or key for secure transitions between latched and unlatched states, enabling both secure retention and easy removal of devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is provided to secure the portable device in the support apparatus, then security against removal is improved, but the mechanism is limited to permanent securing until disengagement by a user with the correct combination, lacking flexibility for varying security levels
Solution Approach 1:
The latching element is made dynamically adjustable between multiple fixed positions (fully extended for high security, partially retracted for low security, fully retracted for no security). The plunger element can be positioned at different locations along the tongue member to correspond to these different security levels, allowing the system to adapt its security characteristics based on user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The security parameter is changed by varying the position of the plunger element along the tongue member. Different plunger positions create different effective locking strengths, transforming a single-state locking mechanism into a multi-state system that can provide varying degrees of security retention.
2Reliability
If a latching element is provided to retain the portable electronic device, then security is improved, but the device complexity increases with additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The security mechanism merges multiple functions into a single integrated assembly. The latching element and plunger element work together as a unified system where the plunger element's position along the tongue member determines the security level, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms for different security requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The single latching element assembly serves multiple security functions: it can provide high security when the plunger is at one position, low security when positioned differently, and no security when fully retracted. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate locking mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If automatic latching is implemented with a resilient biasing element, then ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient biasing element enables the latching element to automatically return to its extended position after being depressed. When the user releases the latching element, the spring automatically pushes it back into the locked position, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for manual resetting or additional actuators.
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 flexible security system that automatically secures devices while allowing easy installation and removal, with adjustable security levels to suit different needs, enhancing user convenience and device protection.
Implementation Method 1
The latching element is optionally resiliently biased toward the latched position for automatically latching the portable electronic device in the support apparatus
Implementation Method 2
the tongue member may include a sloping or inclined lead-in surface, similar to a common door latch, for pushing the tongue against the biasing spring toward a retracted configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A support apparatus having a variable security level, including a tray for receiving a portable electronic device. The tray has a mounting interface structure on its outside backing surface. An unsecurable retainer mechanism releasably retains the portable electronic device in the tray. A variable level security mechanism securably retains the portable electronic device in the tray, the variably securable latching element includes: a latching element that is movable between a latched configuration relative to the tray for securably latching the portable electronic device in the tray, and an unlatched configuration, a security element that is movable between a secured configuration for alternatively securing the latching element in the latched and unlatched configurations thereof, and an unsecured configuration, and a lock element that is coupled to the security element for alternatively locking the security element in the secured and unsecured configurations.