Vehicle Mounting Assembly With Integrated Electrical Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle-mounted electronic device mounting assemblies either lack easy removal capabilities or do not provide a reliable means for continuous power supply to the devices.
Innovation Solution
A mounting assembly with a base and socket assembly featuring integral electrical connectors that connect and disconnect seamlessly, allowing the electronic device to be powered from the vehicle's electrical system without external cables, and includes structural limitations to prevent connector disconnection during pivoting, ensuring secure and convenient positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a permanent ball and socket joint is used to support the cradle, then the electronic device can be positioned in any broad range of positions, but the cradle cannot be easily removed from the base
Solution Approach 1:
The ball and socket joint is divided into separable components: a ball assembly with electrical connectors and a socket assembly with corresponding connectors. This segmentation allows the joint to provide both positioning versatility when connected and easy removal when disconnected, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If a separable ball and socket joint is used, then the cradle can be quickly separated from the base, but there is no reliable means for continuous power supply to the device
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical ball and socket joint is merged with electrical connector assemblies. The ball contains electrical connectors that mate with corresponding connectors in the socket assembly, combining mechanical support and electrical power delivery into a single integrated interface. This allows quick separation while maintaining reliable power supply when connected.
3Ease of operation
If electrical connectors are integrated into the ball and socket joint, then power can be supplied without external cables, but the connectors may disconnect during pivoting movements
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connectors are designed with dynamic characteristics that allow them to accommodate pivoting movements. The connectors include flexible elements and positioning features that maintain electrical contact while permitting the range of motion required for device positioning, resolving the contradiction between operational convenience and connection reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A mounting assembly for mounting an electronic device to a surface of a vehicle includes a base for coupling with the surface and a socket assembly for supporting the electronic device on the base. The base includes a mounting ball, and the socket assembly includes a socket operable to frictionally engage the mounting ball to removably couple the socket assembly to the base. An electrical connector is attached to the mounting ball and coupled to an electrical system and another electrical connector is mounted within the socket to provide power to the electronic device when the socket assembly is coupled with the base. Structure limits rotation of the socket assembly relative to the base to inhibit the electrical connectors from becoming disconnected due to over-rotation of the socket assembly on the base.