Windshield Phone Mount Arm Bumper for One-Handed Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle-mounted personal electronic devices, such as cell phones and tablets, are difficult to install and remove efficiently from windshield mounts due to the slanted angle of the windshield, obstructing vertical removal and requiring two-handed operation, and lack stability against shear forces.
Innovation Solution
A mount design with configurable jaws that allow one-handed installation and removal in a horizontal direction, featuring sliding and pivoting mechanisms to adjust to the device's width and secure it to the windshield, along with an elastomeric bumper for dashboard contact to prevent separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the device is mounted close to the windshield interior surface, then the driver's line of sight is not obstructed and focus disparity is minimized, but the device becomes difficult to remove and reinstall due to the slanted windshield angle
Solution Approach 1:
The mount employs a dynamic jaw mechanism that can transition between open and closed configurations. The first jaw pivots relative to the base, allowing the device to be inserted when the jaw is open and securely clamped when closed. This dynamic adjustment enables easy device installation and removal while maintaining stable mounting when the device is secured.
2Ease of operation
If the device is positioned within arm's reach of the driver, then it is easily accessible, but it obstructs the driver's line of sight and creates focus disparity
Solution Approach 1:
The mount uses an extension arm that projects the device holder forward toward the windshield, positioning the device in a different spatial dimension - closer to the driver's focal plane for road viewing while maintaining accessibility. The extension arm allows the device to be mounted on the windshield surface yet remain within the driver's reach envelope, resolving the conflict between accessibility and visual obstruction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mount uses a fixed rigid structure, then it provides stable support, but it cannot adapt to different device widths and requires complex adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The mount structure is segmented into distinct functional components: a base, a pivoting first jaw with channel, and a second jaw. The first jaw can pivot independently to accommodate different device widths, while the second jaw provides lateral constraint. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function simply, avoiding the need for complex overall adjustment mechanisms while achieving adaptability to various device sizes.
4Reliability
If the device is mounted on a slanted windshield surface, then it is securely attached, but vertical removal and reinstallation are obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of designing the mount to facilitate vertical insertion and removal, the invention inverts the approach by enabling horizontal insertion and removal. The first jaw pivots horizontally to open and close, allowing the device to be slid in and out horizontally. This inversion of the removal direction resolves the conflict with the slanted windshield surface, maintaining secure attachment while enabling easy device access.
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
Enables secure, one-handed installation and removal of devices close to the driver's focal plane, enhancing road focus and reducing distraction by maintaining device stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric bumper for dashboard contact to prevent separation
Data Source
AI summary
A windshield phone mount includes a telescoping arm assembly that brings the mounted cell phone or other personal electronic device within the maximum reach envelope of the driver. A bumper substantially surrounds an arm component in cross section and rests on the dashboard near the rear edge thereof. Living hinges in the bumper allow it to be pried apart and installed on the arm component without tearing. A user may select from a kit of arms for use in assembling the complete mount.