Wireless charging tray designed specifically for a 2010 E-Class vehicle.

[Geek2232]

I was seeking a method to attach my phone to a wireless charging cradle. After installing a CarPlay adapter in my car, I realised that I don't need the phone to be visible or accessible on the dashboard. Therefore, I decided to place it in the centre console cubby. I covered it with the plastic lid of the cubby, ensuring a clear view from the sun roof and windscreen. This positioning should provide adequate satellite reception for the satnav. I created and fabricated a tray using 3D printing technology to fit snugly into the central storage compartment, positioned in a suspended manner like a mezzanine structure. The recess for the phone is specifically designed to accommodate the proportions of my iPhone when it is enclosed in a silicone rubber case. Additionally, the magnetic wireless puck is securely attached using hot melt glue.

The area presented several challenges due to its irregular dimensions - the width of the cubby narrows from the front to the rear, and the floor of the cubby has a significant slope. However, the outcome is a well-fitting and tight arrangement, which allows for the typical clutter in the area under the tray. The legs are affixed using pegs and secured with superglue. The connection does not need excessive strength since the tray is firmly trapped in position and cannot move horizontally.

Currently, my objective is to locate a method to insert a USB port inside the cubby. I own a 12-volt adaptor that may convert power to twin USB ports. Now, I just need to locate a practical method to connect it via wiring. I have a strong aversion to Scotchlocks, and I would rather get a power supply straight from a fuse box, for instance, by using a piggy-back fuse. I anticipated locating a fuse box either on one side or the other of the dashboard, but I only have one in the engine bay and one in the trunk, and neither of them is suitable for efficiently routing a wire to the central storage compartment. Meanwhile, I just connect the charging puck to an adaptor and insert it into one of the cigarette plugs.

[Geek2232]

[bvlenci]

Is the CarPlay kit wireless?

[Geek2232]

Affirmative. The device offers the option of a wired connection via USB, although it functions well when connected wirelessly. It first connects using Bluetooth and thereafter uses WiFi.

[ForumGuru]

That is an excellent work, well done! 👍
Revise - about the electrical connection. Perhaps connect to the cigarette lighter wire by use a pair of Wago cage clamps?

[ForumGuru]

[Geek2232]

Oh, were you enquiring about the possibility of the connected connection supplying electricity to the charging puck? Regrettably, I failed to take into account the previous experience I had with creating a similar tray for my W221. In that case, I utilised the USB connection in the CarPlay adapter to supply power to the charging puck. However, I discovered that the power output was not sufficiently high. Additionally, due to the wireless energy losses, the charging rate was unable to keep up with the phone's power consumption while simultaneously running Google Maps and Spotify.

[Geek2232]

Indeed, both cigarette lighter plugs are available as alternatives, since they possess a much larger current rating compared to the average power consumption of USB devices, which is the only purpose for which I use both ports. However, I really dislike the idea of altering the original wiring, even if I have access to the high-quality Wago connections. If I am able to locate the same plug (along with a corresponding socket) that is used for the cigarette lighter socket, I will gladly construct a y-connector in order to access that circuit. In the past, the cigarette lighter sockets were simple, usually equipped with spade connections at the rear. However, in modern times, the design has become much more advanced and intricate.

[Geek2232]

Suggestion!

Although I have reservations about modifying the original car wiring, I am less concerned about making modifications to the wiring of other components I have installed. The CarPlay adaptor uses a wire harness to get power from the supply of the COMAND head unit. I will examine the different ratings, but it is possible that the power supply may accommodate an additional amp or so in order to provide a 5V 3A output for the two USB connections. That is an alternative if I abandon my search for a direct connection from a fuse box.

[DreamWeaver]

I am really pleased by the work you perform. I like the personalised tray/charging dock.

Well done!

[ForumGuru]

As per the EPC, you need one of the following:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/355855242458?mkevt=1&mkcid=1&mkrid=710-53481-19255-0&campid=5338181125&toolid=10001&customid=2518X1570512X603dcf059c9ea5e01d0ee90b63352999

[Geek2232]

That is great effort - I appreciate it! Does this plug directly attach to the rear of the cigarette lighter socket, or is it located on the other end of the lines and hidden under the dashboard? Ideally, I would want to have the socket to which it connects, in order to create a 'breakout' y-cable.