Vehicle Console Laptop Rack With Compound-Angle Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The placement of electronic equipment, such as laptops, in vehicles poses challenges regarding accessibility, safety, and visibility, as existing methods either obstruct the driver's view or hinder egress due to limited space and improper positioning.
Innovation Solution
A compound angle mounting system for electronic equipment consoles, featuring a laptop rack oriented to be elevated, pitched upwardly and rearwardly, rotated, and tilted, which is supported by an equipment shelf and bracket system, allowing for adjustable positioning to enhance accessibility and visibility while maintaining safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the computer is mounted at right angles to the dashboard next to the operator, then the computer is securely positioned, but access is restricted and visibility is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the laptop rack in the center console area between the driver and passenger seats, utilizing the vertical and depth dimensions of the console rather than mounting it on the side dashboard. This central positioning allows the screen to face forward or slightly angled toward the operator, eliminating side-view obstruction while maintaining secure placement within the vehicle's interior space.
Solution Approach 2:
The laptop rack is designed with asymmetric positioning and angling capabilities, allowing the screen to be oriented at optimal angles for the operator's line of sight. The rack can be tilted and rotated to accommodate different operator positions and viewing requirements, rather than being fixed at a single right-angle orientation to the dashboard.
2Ease of operation
If the computer is placed in front of the passenger, then accessibility is improved, but egress is hindered and visibility is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The laptop rack utilizes the vertical space within the center console, positioning the computer at an elevated height that is accessible to both driver and passenger without occupying floor space. This vertical placement allows passengers to quickly exit the vehicle by simply stepping out, rather than requiring removal of a computer positioned on their lap or in front of them.
Solution Approach 2:
The laptop rack is designed as a removable or easily accessible component within the center console. The computer can be quickly removed from the rack if needed for egress or other purposes, separating the computer from fixed mounting positions that would impede passenger movement or exit.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the computer is held in the operator's lap, then portability is maintained, but all activities and egress are interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The center console laptop rack serves as an intermediary mounting solution between the operator's lap and fixed dashboard mounting. It provides a stable, dedicated position for the computer that is easily accessible to the operator while not requiring the computer to be held or balanced on the operator's body, thereby eliminating interference with activities and egress.
Solution Approach 2:
The laptop rack is positioned at an ergonomically optimal height and angle within the center console, creating an equipotential working position that requires minimal operator effort to access and use the computer. The rack's position and angling bring the computer into the operator's natural line of sight and keyboard reach zone without requiring awkward positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic equipment console for a vehicle includes an equipment shelf supported by a bracket and defining a plane. A laptop rack is supported by the equipment shelf and is oriented relative to the defined plane thereof to be elevated, pitched upwardly and rearwardly, rotated, and tilted.