Vehicle Adapter for Mobile Device Cable Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for connecting mobile devices in vehicles do not provide a stable, hands-free orientation for the device, as cables lack support to maintain the device in a predetermined position for the driver's view.
Innovation Solution
An adapter is positioned between a vehicle's interior trim and a component, featuring a base, outwardly extending members, and cross bars to secure the cable, allowing it to be threaded and looped around, along with optional features like a suction cup or clip for attachment, ensuring the cable and mobile device are securely held.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cable is used to connect the mobile device to the vehicle, then the mobile device can be connected to the vehicle for charging or data transfer, but the cable cannot support the mobile device in a predetermined position for hands-free orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as an intermediary component between the cable and the mobile device. It includes a base that receives the cable connector and extends upwardly, with a top surface that supports the mobile device. This intermediary structure transforms the cable from merely a connection medium into a positioning support system, allowing the device to be held in a predetermined hands-free orientation while maintaining electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter extends in the vertical dimension by having a base that extends upwardly to form a top surface. This vertical extension creates a new dimension of support, transforming the horizontal cable layout into a vertical stacking arrangement where the cable connects at the base level and the device is supported at the elevated top surface level.
2Reliability
If the cable is left loose without support, then the cable has flexibility for connection, but the mobile device cannot be stabilized in a predetermined position
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: cable reception, device support, and position stabilization. The base receives the cable connector while simultaneously providing structural support for the mobile device on its top surface. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate cable management systems and device holders, reducing overall system complexity while achieving position stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter structure serves multiple purposes: it acts as a cable connector receiver, a vertical support column, and a device platform. The base portion universally accepts various cable connectors, the vertical extension provides structural support, and the top surface universally supports mobile devices of different sizes and weights.
3Device complexity
If the adapter structure is simplified to just hold the cable, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide hands-free orientation and stabilize the device is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is segmented into distinct functional portions: a base portion that receives the cable connector and a vertical extension portion that elevates the support surface. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural simplicity. The base handles cable connection and the vertical extension provides elevation for hands-free viewing.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter securing a mobile device to a vehicle is disclosed. The adapter is positioned between an interior trim part and a vehicle component, and is configured for receiving a cable. The cable includes a connector at a first end of the cable for connecting the cable to the mobile device. The adapter includes a base, a first member extending outwardly from the base, a second member extending outwardly from the base substantially parallel to the first member, and a plurality of cross bars extending between the first member and the second member, the cross bars configured such that the cable may be threaded and looped around the cross bars.