Vertical Docking Hooks for Interactive Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional docking stations are limited to horizontal positioning, and there is a need for a hybrid docking mechanism that allows interactive devices to be temporarily mounted vertically while replicating peripherals.
Innovation Solution
A vertical docking system (VDS) with a vertical docking apparatus (VDA) that includes a back panel assembly with device docking hooks and a front panel assembly with a transmission connector connected to a power conversion module, enabling interactive devices to be securely mounted and powered vertically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional docking stations are used horizontally, then device compatibility and peripheral replication are achieved, but vertical mounting capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the docking mechanism from horizontal to vertical orientation by introducing a vertical docking station with a back panel assembly that mounts to vertical surfaces. The device docking hooks extend frontally from the back panel, enabling vertical coupling with interactive devices while maintaining all horizontal docking functions such as power transmission and peripheral replication.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical docking station integrates multiple functions into a single device: it provides vertical mounting capability through back panel assembly, maintains device coupling through device docking hooks, enables power transmission via transmission connectors, and supports peripheral replication. This multi-functional design achieves vertical adaptability without sacrificing existing docking capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If vertical mounting is implemented, then space utilization and ergonomics are improved, but permanent mounting requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs device docking hooks that enable dynamic coupling and decoupling of interactive devices from the vertical docking station. The hooks are designed to securely hold devices in vertical orientation while allowing easy attachment and removal, transforming the static permanent mounting requirement into a dynamic temporary mounting solution that maintains stability during use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If device docking hooks extend through the front panel, then vertical coupling is achieved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is divided into distinct functional assemblies: a back panel assembly containing the device docking hooks, and a front panel assembly containing the transmission connector. The hooks extend from the back panel through openings in the front panel, with each panel optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity through the assembled configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, system, and cluster for vertically docking interactive devices. The apparatus includes a pair of device docking hooks (DDHs), which temporarily couple to and secure an interactive device onto a vertical surface. In addition to the apparatus, the system may include one or more device locking mount(s) (DLMs) coupled to the interactive device, which further secures the interactive device to a static vertical surface. The coupling between each of the one or more DLM(s) and the interactive device may take the form of, for example, a magnetic attachment, a hook and loop fabric attachment, a spring loaded hook, a simple gravity induced friction attachment (e.g., a resting pad), etc. Alternatively, in addition to the apparatus, the system may include a device locking apparatus (DLA), which when engaged may further secure the interactive device to an articulating vertical surface.