Accessory mounting bracket

Abstract

A mounting bracket for releasably securing an article to a structure includes a first and second bracket assembly each including one or more ring clamps defined by opposed ring end arms, a clamp base defining one or more pairs of slots each receptive to corresponding ones of the opposed ring end arms of the ring clamps, and a clamp base coupling. One set of ring clamps with one of the clamp bases are engageable to the article. The other set of ring clamps with the other one of the clamp bases are engageable to the structure. One of the clamp bases couplings is engageable with the other clamp base coupling, and a locking pin is removably engaged therewith.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]Not ApplicableSTATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH / DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not ApplicableBACKGROUND1. Technical Field[0003]The present disclosure relates generally to an apparatus for securing various articles to a structure, and more particularly, to brackets for releasably mounting accessories.2. Related Art[0004]While operating a motor vehicle, ready access to a variety of accessories beyond standard installed components and controls therefor may be needed or desired. For example, navigation, audio playback, and / or telephone communication functions of a smartphone may need to be utilized while driving an automobile, and a hands-free operation may be best facilitated by mounting the smartphone to the dashboard, an air conditioning vent, or other surface proximal to the driver. There are numerous smartphone mount devices known in the art, including those that clamp the smartphone in a cradle, with the cradle, in turn, being attached to th...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present patent is directed to a mounting bracket that can securely attach an article to a structure using a releasable attachment system. The bracket includes two brackets, each with ring clamps and clamp bases. There is also a locking pin that connects the brackets. The bracket can be used with different types of clamps and retainers, making it a versatile solution for various mounting needs. Additionally, there is a universal bracket base that allows for easy interchange of different clamps. Overall, the bracket system provides a secure and adjustable way to attach articles to structures.

Problems solved by technology

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles (UTVs), and various off-highway vehicles are likewise limited with respect to the locations on which an accessory mount can be attached, though such vehicles may have roll cages and other tubular structures that surround the driver and passengers.

Due to the rough terrain in which such vehicle are operated, they are more prone to rollovers that result in spilled fuel and other combustibles.

Furthermore, because of the remoteness of these locations, firefighters and other first responders may not be able to get to the site of the accident or fire before the entirety of the vehicle is destroyed.

Existing fire extinguisher mounts are limited, however, in a number of ways.

Furthermore, with respect to quick release mechanisms, complicated cross-pin configurations that required two-handed operation to remove the fire extinguisher from the vehicle structure were employed.

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