High reliability, high precision, releasable mounting system and method

Abstract

A releasable mounting system and method for semi-permanently attaching to an iron-containing material surface, the system including a base assembly having a plurality of magnetically assisted chuck (MASC) mounting assemblies attached to a base plate for semi-permanently attaching to an iron-containing material surface. Each MASC mounting assembly has a suction cup and at least one magnet that provides additional fixation of the base assembly to the ferrous material surface. The system may include a roof assembly including a housing and a pivotally mounted mast assembly biased in an upright position.

Description

[0001] Inventors: Vineet Agarwal, Alan Kenneth Stratton, Kevin Bendler, Jeffrey Parker, Christopher Greitencord, Leo Belval, Steve Chancey, Haining Dong, and Marshall Ibuprofen

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Application Serial No. 18 / 139,304 filed on April 25, 2023 and U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 334,547 filed on April 25, 2022. Applicant incorporates the entire contents of Application Serial No. 18 / 139,304 and Application Serial No. 63 / 334,547 herein by reference. Background Art 1. Field of the invention.

[0004] The present invention generally relates to releasable mounting systems, and more particularly to high reliability, high precision releasable mounting systems. The present invention also relates to releasable mounting systems for vehicle roofs, and more particularly to high reliability, high precision releasable mounting systems for vehicle roofs.

[0005] 2. Description of related technology.

[0006] There are many examples of situations where it is necessary to accurately locate a vehicle and to know exactly where the vehicle is at a given point in time and / or during a mobile survey.

[0007] A well-known technology for achieving this accuracy is via satellite navigation. Satellite navigation is a satellite system that provides autonomous geospatial positioning with global coverage. Small electronic receivers use time signals sent from satellites to determine the position (longitude, latitude and altitude / altitude). Global Navigation Satellite System ("GNSS") is a standard generic name for satellite navigation systems that provide autonomous geospatial positioning with global coverage. Although satellite navigation is highly accurate and independent of weather, it has some disadvantages. The signals of satellite navigation may be shielded, and the positioning accuracy is adversely affected and / or fails in various situations, such as in tunnels and densely forested roads. In addition, the output frequency of satellite navigation is limited, which may affect the speed and strong mobility required in certain environments. One way to overcome these disadvantages is to combine inertial navigation and satellite navigation.

[0008] An inertial navigation system ("INS") is an autonomous navigation system that does not rely on external information and belongs to the dead reckoning navigation mode, that is, the position of the next point is calculated from the position of a known point based on the continuously measured heading angle and velocity of the moving body, thereby continuously measuring the current position of the moving body. However, there are some disadvantages of the inertial navigation system, one of which is that the navigation information is generated by integration, so the positioning error increases over time and the long-term accuracy is poor.

[0009] The GNS / INS integrated navigation algorithm uses an integrated navigation algorithm to fuse the inertial navigation unit information with the satellite navigation system information to compensate for the inertial element errors and correct the carrier position, velocity and attitude signals, thereby forming a high-precision, compact and low-cost integrated navigation system.

[0010] An example of applying a GNSS / INS integrated navigation system is when conducting a mobile survey, such as a mobile survey to detect the location of natural gas emissions and / or leaks from a distant source with high accuracy. In this case, it is also desirable to place the anemometer on a mast mounted on the roof of the vehicle. The mast can extend vertically three feet or more above the roof. There is a significant potential for damage to the anemometer positioned at such a height above the roof of the vehicle and / or there is a significant potential for damage to the vehicle. For example, when the vehicle is in motion, an anemometer on a high mast is prone to hitting low objects, including tree branches, garage gaps, drive-through gaps, etc. In this case, the anemometer may be damaged, the mast may break and cause damage to the vehicle, and there is a potential risk of injury.

[0011] It is desirable to have a system and method that combines anemometers, GNSS / INS, and other sensors in a single system for mounting on a vehicle roof. It is also desirable to have a system and method that combines sensors on top of a moving vehicle and ensures consistent accuracy of the lever arm configuration of the GNSS / INS while also ensuring sub-meter position accuracy. It is also desirable that the system and method minimize damage to the tall anemometer mast and vehicle in the event that an obstacle strikes the moving vehicle and / or anemometer mast. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present invention solves the problem of deploying cost-effective mounting equipment that protects sensitive equipment from damage during mobile surveys of geo-location equipment that requires accurate detection of various factors related to precise location.

[0013] One aspect of a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes addressing the important configuration and installation steps of a GNSS / INS system on a vehicle while ensuring accuracy and ease of achievement during installation.

[0014] One aspect of a preferred embodiment is to develop a roof platform with a semi-permanent floor that can be fixed at a specific point on the roof of a vehicle by aligning one edge of the floor with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The roof platform ensures that the GNSS / INS receiver is positioned a fixed distance from the GNSS antenna and the vehicle's axis of rotation (usually the center of the vehicle's rear axle). The roof platform is fixed to the vehicle so that the 3-axis offset of the GNSS / INS system relative to the GNSS antenna is fixed, and the 3-axis offset of the INS system (Inertial Measurement Unit IMU embedded in the GNSS / INS receiver) relative to the center of the vehicle's axis of rotation is fixed.

[0015] One aspect of a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a housing for the GNSS antenna and anemometer together, and mounting the GNSS antenna on top of the anemometer so that the GNSS antenna is a fixed distance from the GNSS / INS receiver in the x, y and z directions. Preferably, the antenna is the tallest object so that it receives good GNSS signals, and is at a fixed distance to allow accurate calculations. In a preferred embodiment, the GNSS / INS receiver has a microprocessor / controller that performs calculations using satellite signals and provides data to a tablet or smart phone connection. The GNSS antenna captures radio signals from the satellites and preferably amplifies them before passing them to the GNSS / INS receiver.

[0016] Another aspect of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is that the entire roof deck is mounted on a semi-permanent mount that is secured to the vehicle roof using magnetic auxiliary suction cups. Preferably, the plurality of magnets are in a raised or "parked" position for initial installation of the semi-permanent floor so that the magnets do not interfere with the positioning of the semi-permanent floor on the ferrous roof. Once the semi-permanent floor is properly positioned and the suction cups are attached to the roof, the magnets are lowered and provide additional attachment to the roof. In the event of suction cup failure, the magnets provide additional attachment to the ferrous roof.

[0017] The anemometer mast, which is preferably about 40" high, but may be 10 to 20 inches lower or higher, is mounted on the table so that the anemometer mast can be pivoted back and forth in the direction of movement of the vehicle to allow the anemometer mast to fall if it accidentally strikes an obstacle (such as a tree branch), thereby preventing damage to the instrument and the vehicle.

[0018] Another aspect of the preferred embodiment is that the anemometer mast is positioned in the stage with magnets so that in the event that an object strikes the anemometer and / or mast, the mast can pivot and fall toward the vehicle roof, thereby preventing damage. The fall is stopped or inhibited by a damper in the roof stage on the axis and / or by repelling magnets positioned in the roof stage at the bottom. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The present invention may be better understood by reading the following detailed description of embodiments and by studying the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a perspective view of the magnetic assist suction cup (MASC) mounting assembly;

[0021] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exploded view of the MASC mounting assembly shown in;

[0022] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the MASC mounting assembly with distal ends of the plurality of fingers in a parked position;

[0023] Figure 5 is a perspective view of one type of releasable mounting system having an erecting mast assembly;

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A front view of the releasable mounting system is shown;

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 a side view of the releasable mounting system shown;

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A top view of the releasable mounting system is shown;

[0027] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the housing assembly;

[0028] Fig.10 is an exploded view of the shell assembly and mast assembly;

[0029] Fig.11 is a top view of the base assembly;

[0030] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a portion of a roof assembly;

[0031] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 a side view of a portion of a roof assembly shown;

[0032] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 a front view of a portion of a roof assembly shown;

[0033] Fig.15 yes Fig.12 a top view of a portion of the roof assembly shown;

[0034] Fig.16 is a perspective view of a portion of a roof assembly mounted on a base assembly with the housing being removed from the roof assembly;

[0035] Fig.17 is a side elevation view of a vehicle with the base assembly mounted on a roof of the vehicle; and

[0036] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 A top view of a vehicle is shown showing the base assembly mounted on the roof of the vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] First, it should be understood that although the following describes illustrative implementations of one or more embodiments, the disclosed components, systems, and methods may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not yet in existence. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the illustrative implementations, drawings, and techniques described below, but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims and their full scope of equivalents.

[0038] The following brief definitions of terms will apply throughout this application:

[0039] The phrases "in one embodiment," "according to one embodiment," etc. generally mean that the particular feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, and may be included in more than one embodiment of the present invention (importantly, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment);

[0040] If this specification describes something as "exemplary" or an "example," it should be understood to refer to a non-exclusive example;

[0041] The terms "about" or "approximately" and the like, when used with a number, as understood by those skilled in the art, may mean the specific number, or alternatively, may mean a range close to the specific number;

[0042] If the specification states that a component or feature "may", "could", "should", "ought to", "preferably", "perhaps", "typically", "optionally", "for example", "usually", "likely" (or other such language) be included or have a characteristic, then the particular component or feature does not have to be included or have the characteristic. Such components or features may optionally be included in some embodiments, or may be excluded.

[0043] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements throughout. The terms used in the description provided herein are not intended to be interpreted in any limiting or restrictive manner, as the terms are used only in conjunction with the detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the present invention. In addition, embodiments of the present invention may include several novel features, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desired attributes or is necessary for practicing the invention described herein.

[0044] See also Figures 1 to 4 , shows one embodiment of a magnetic assisted suction cup (MASC) mounting assembly 100. Preferably, the MASC mounting assembly 100 includes a retaining assembly 102 having: a generally circular central frustoconical portion 104 having a flat upper surface 104s; and a plurality of evenly spaced fingers 106 extending downwardly and radially from the lower end of the frustoconical portion 104 and defining openings 106o between adjacent fingers 106. Preferably, the retaining assembly 102 is made of a durable elastic polymer (e.g., silicone) and molded. The finger 106 includes a distal portion 106d and a proximal portion 106p connected by a hinge 106h. The hinge 106h can be a flexible hinge formed during the molding process. The distal portion 106d preferably has a substantially smooth flat lower surface 106s.

[0045] Preferably, the distal end 106d of each finger 106 includes one or more receptacles 106r for receiving the magnet 107. The receptacles 106r may include a cover for enclosing the magnet 107 within the receptacles 106r. A tab 106t is preferably located at the distal end of each finger 106.

[0046] The MASC mounting assembly 100 also preferably includes a suction cup 108, a storage plate 110, a suction pump 112, and a pump bracket 114. The suction cup 108 is received within the frustoconical portion 104 and the downwardly radially extending proximal end portion 106p of the finger-shaped portion 106. The suction cup 108 may include one or more lifting tabs 108t adjacent to the outer periphery of the suction cup 108. The lifting tabs 108t can be used to pull the suction cup 108 upward to release the pressure or suction between the suction cup 108 and the surface to which it is attached. Preferably, the lifting tabs 108t are positioned within the openings 106o between adjacent fingers 106 for easy access.

[0047] The storage plate 110 includes a base 110b and a plurality of ears 110e. The base 110b is adapted to be positioned on the flat upper surface 104s of the truncated cone 104. The ears 110e preferably extend upward and outward from the base 110b. The ears 110e or at least a portion of the ears 110e are made of or include a ferromagnetic metal.

[0048] Preferably, the suction pump 112 includes a pump rod 112r, a check valve, and a tubular insert 112t. The pump rod 112r is pumped to draw a vacuum between the suction cup 108 and the surface to which it is attached or being attached. The tubular insert 112t is in sealing engagement with the suction cup 108. The suction pump 112 can be used to provide and maintain a vacuum between the suction cup 108 and the surface to which it is attached, and the check valve allows re-pumping without losing the remaining vacuum.

[0049] The pump bracket 114 secures the suction pump 112 in place. Fasteners 114f may be used to secure the MASC mounting assembly 100 together. As an example, a pair of fasteners 114f may extend through the pump bracket 114, the storage plate 110, holes in the upper surface 104s of the frustoconical portion 104, and extend into the suction cup 108 to secure the components together. It should be understood that other fastening devices are also possible and within the scope of the present invention. In addition, the pump bracket 114 includes an accessory mount 114m suitable for attachment to or to other devices, which will be discussed in detail later. The accessory mount 114m may be a threaded component, such as a nut or stud, or a clamping device.

[0050] It should be understood that suction cups with vacuum pump assemblies are commercially available. One company that provides such a product is Woods Powr-Grip, Inc. of Laurel, Montana. Woods Powr-Grip has a vacuum suction cup product that has a check valve that allows re-pumping without losing the remaining vacuum and a red line indicator on the pump stem to alert the user of any loss of vacuum. These features are desirable features in the present invention.

[0051] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the number of ears 110e of the storage plate 110 is preferably the same as the number of fingers 106 of the retaining assembly 102. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the assembled condition of the MASC mounting assembly 100, the angle and placement of the ear 110e of the memory plate 110 allows the upper end of the magnet receptacle 106r to contact or be adjacent to the ear 110e when the distal end 106d of the finger 106 is rotated upward about the hinge 106h. Figure 4 As shown, the distal end 106d of the finger 106 will remain in this "parked" or raised position due to the magnetic attraction between the magnet 107 and the ferromagnetic ear 110e.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, during the process of attaching the MASC mount assembly 100 to a ferrous metal surface, the distal end 106d of the finger 106 is in a "parked" position to allow easy movement when positioning the MASC mount assembly 100 on the ferrous metal surface. With the suction cup 108 positioned at the desired location on the ferrous metal surface, a vacuum is drawn between the suction cup 108 and the ferrous metal surface using the pump 112. Once the vacuum is drawn, the distal end 106d of the finger 106 is pulled away from the ear 110e and partially rotated to a lowered position where the magnet 107 surrounding the suction cup 108 is brought into proximity with and magnetically attached or attracted to the ferrous metal surface to which the suction cup 108 is attached. These steps can be reversed to remove the MASC mount assembly 100 from the ferrous metal surface.

[0053] One of the aspects of the MASC mounting assembly 100 is the combination of the suction cup 108 with a vacuum pump 112 and fixation assistance via the magnet 107. The suction cup 108 is known to lose vacuum over time and requires reinstallation or pumping to restore vacuum for an additional period of time. The MASC mounting assembly 100 can be used to mount an object to a ferrous metal surface, wherein the magnet 107 provides assistance and / or additional support to the suction cup 108, whether the suction cup 108 is in full vacuum, partial vacuum, or no vacuum. The MASC mounting assembly 100 has utility in many applications and markets that require additional support for suction-based mountings, because the suction may fail after a period of time.

[0054] It should be understood that the MASC mount assembly 100 may be used alone or in combination with one or more other MASC mount assemblies 100, as discussed below.

[0055] Figure 5 A perspective view of one type of releasable mounting system 20 including a plurality of MASC mounting assemblies 100 is shown. The mounting system 20 is particularly suitable for mounting a device to a roof of a vehicle V ( Fig.17 and Fig.18 ). For example, the mounting system 20 may be used with surveying equipment, GPS equipment, GNSS equipment, INS equipment, etc.

[0056] In addition, it should be understood that the illustrated embodiments are suitable for providing a releasable mounting system 20 that can be precisely positioned, is highly reliable, includes safety features for mounting the device, and allows for disassembly and removal of the upper portion of the system 20 while leaving the lower portion of the system 20 in a precise position.

[0057] The illustrative embodiments described below are suitable for use with an Advanced Mobile Leak Detector (AMLD) system on a vehicle. One such AMLD system is disclosed in Applicant's pending U.S. Patent Publication No. 2023 / 0107797. AMLD systems can be used to detect gas leaks and determine the location of gas leaks. It is important for such AMLD systems to accurately determine the precise location, wind direction, and speed of the vehicle when taking readings from a moving vehicle during a leak detection survey. Two important sensors required to achieve this are a GNSS antenna 92 ​​and an anemometer 96, such as a GNSS antenna 92. Figure 5 shown.

[0058] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment shown and described below, the releasable mounting system 20 includes a base assembly 22 and a roof assembly 40. It should be understood that the roof assembly 40 can be used as a stand-alone device and does not require the base assembly 22 to function.

[0059] The roof assembly 40 includes a mast assembly 80. The mast assembly 80 preferably includes telescoping tubular members 82, 84 and a tubular lock 86. A housing assembly 90 having a tapered housing 94, a GNSS antenna 92, and an anemometer 96 is mounted on top of the mast assembly 80. The GNSS antenna 92 ​​is mounted on top of the anemometer 96, for example, on an anemometer cover 96b ( Fig. 9 ) so that antenna 92 ​​is a fixed distance in the x, y and z directions from a GNSS / INS receiver (not shown, but preferably housed within housing 44), which is preferably located below mast assembly 80. Preferably, GNSS antenna 92 ​​is the tallest object so that it receives good GNSS signals and is a fixed distance from the GNSS / INS receiver to allow accurate GNSS calculations. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As best shown in FIG. 1 , wires 92w from antenna 92 ​​pass through tubular support 96t of anemometer 96, through tapered housing 94, and down through mast assembly 80 and out of the mast assembly. Anemometer 96 has wires 96w that also extend down through tapered housing 94 and mast assembly 80 and out of the mast assembly. Tapered housing 94 provides support and protection for the mounted anemometer 96 and GNSS antenna 92. Telescoping mast assembly 80 allows for height adjustment and facilitates storage and transportation.

[0060] Commercially available anemometers are suitable for use with the present invention. For example, one such anemometer is the Windsonic 75 ultrasonic wind sensor from Gill Instruments Ltd. of Hampshire UK. The Windsonic 75 ultrasonic wind sensor has no moving parts and is a two-axis ultrasonic wind sensor that provides wind speed and direction data via one serial or two analog outputs.

[0061] Now refer to Figures 5 to 8 and Fig.11 The base assembly 22 is described in detail. The base assembly 22 includes a generally flat planar bottom plate 24 having a plurality of arms 24a, each arm 24a having an opening 24o therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom plate 24 has four arms 24a, and the openings 24o are elongated slots. As described above and in Figures 1 to 3 The MASC mounting assembly 100 shown in detail in FIG. 1 is attached to the accessory mounting member 114m ( Figure 1 ) is attached to each arm 24a. The stud 26 extends through the elongated slot 24o and is secured to the arm 24a with one or more nuts 28. The elongated slot 24o allows the MASC mounting assembly 100 to be positioned at any location along the length of the slot 24o. This provides versatility to avoid vehicle overhead obstructions and irregular surfaces and accommodate placement on a variety of different vehicles. It should be understood that for purposes of clarity, the MASC mounting assembly 100 is not shown in FIG. Figures 5 to 8 and Fig.11 Two MASC mounting assemblies 100 have been omitted.

[0062] It may be desirable to position the lower nut 28 on each stud 26 below the slotted arm 24 a to level the base plate 24 when placed on the vehicle roof, and position the upper nut for securing the base plate 24 to the MASC mounting assembly 100 .

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the roof assembly 40 can be releasably detached relative to the floor 24 to allow the roof assembly 40 to be removed without interfering with the placement of the base assembly 22. This can be achieved in several ways. Some examples include using threaded fasteners and / or clamping mechanisms to releasably secure the components 40 and 22 together, or one of the components 40 and 22 has a recessed portion and the other has a protruding portion, which can be contacted along one longitudinal edge and then secured to the other longitudinal edge in a similar manner or using a clamp or threaded fastener or some other device. In addition, guide tabs can be used in combination with complementary engagement members, clamps and / or threaded fasteners to orient and secure the roof assembly 40 to the base assembly 22. It should be understood that such releasable connections are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0064] Figures 12 to 16 The preferred embodiment of the roof assembly 40 is shown without the mast assembly 80. The roof assembly 40 includes a housing panel 46 ( Fig.16 ) of the housing 44. The housing 44 and the housing panels 46 may include openings therethrough that define handles 48 on the left and right sides of the roof assembly 40 to facilitate operation of the roof assembly 40.

[0065] Reference Fig.16 , the roof assembly 40 includes a pair of vertical struts 50 mounted on the shell panel 46. The pair of vertical struts 50 are preferably aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shell 44 and are spaced a distance from each other to allow the lower portion of the mast support 42 to be positioned between the pair of vertical struts 50. Preferably, the lower portion of the mast support 42 includes a transverse opening therethrough. In a preferred embodiment, the transverse opening is a square opening for receiving a square shaft 52 therethrough. The square shaft 52 also extends through the opening in the vertical struts 50. When the mast support 42 is pivoted forward and / or rearward, the square shaft 52 is rotated. The opening in the vertical struts 50 allows the shaft 52 to rotate relative to the struts 50.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, a damper 54 may be mounted to each upright support 50 and the square shaft 52 may be passed through the damper 54. The damper 54 helps to dampen or prevent the pivotally mounted mast assembly 80 from falling if the mast assembly 80 strikes a tree branch or other obstruction.

[0067] Reference Fig.16 , the upper portion of each vertical support post 50 preferably includes a mounting magnet 56, and the mast support 42 includes a pair of mounted magnets 58 that are in opposing relationship with the support post magnets 56 when the mast support 42 is in the vertical position. The magnets 56 and 58 have an attractive force between them and are in close proximity to each other when the mast support 42 is in the vertical position. The attractive force between the two pairs of magnets 56 and 58 provides an indexed position of the mast support 42 and the mast assembly 80, which is preferably perpendicular to the housing plate 46 ( Fig.16 ) and / or the longitudinal axis of the floor 24. Preferably, when the roof assembly is properly installed and when the vehicle V is on level ground, the floor 24 is horizontal and the mast assembly 80 is vertical in the indexed position. It should be understood that the indexed position does not "fix" the mast assembly 80, although it does maintain the mast assembly 80 in the proper vertical position unless the mast assembly 80 strikes an object, at which time the force on the mast assembly 80 may overcome the attractive force of the magnets 56 and 58 and cause the mast assembly 80 to pivot and fall forward or rearward.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, if Fig.15As shown, the roof assembly 40 can have a front magnet 60 and a rear magnet 62 placed on the inclined surface of the housing 44 in front and rear of the mast support 42. The mast support 42 includes a pair of magnets 64, one of which faces forward and one faces rearward. The magnet 64 facing forward is positioned so that if the mast support 42 is pivoted forward, the magnet 64 facing forward will be in an opposing relationship with the front magnet 60, and the magnet 64 facing rearward is positioned so that if the mast support 42 is pivoted backward, the magnet 64 facing rearward will be in an opposing relationship with the rear magnet 62. A repulsive force is generated when the magnet 64 facing forward approaches the front magnet 60. Similarly, a repulsive force is generated when the magnet 64 facing rearward approaches the rear magnet 62. The repulsive force is used to further inhibit or prevent the mast assembly 80 from falling when it hits an object.

[0069] As can be appreciated, the damper 54 and magnetic repulsion forces help prevent damage to the mast assembly 80, anemometer 96, antenna 92, and vehicle V. Additionally, the pivotally mounted anemometer mast 80 is vertically positioned with the magnets 56, 58 such that in the event an object strikes the anemometer 96 and / or mast assembly 80, the mast assembly 80 can pivot and fall toward the roof of the vehicle, thereby preventing damage.

[0070] In one embodiment, the square shaft 52 may have lug nuts 66 (preferably hexagonal nuts) on one or both ends to facilitate attachment of a tool (e.g., a socket wrench) to erect the mast assembly when the mast assembly 80 is not in the indexed position but tilted forward or backward. In addition, the socket wrench can be used to rotate the square shaft 52 to lower the mast assembly 80 for storage purposes or to lower the mast assembly 8 before removing the roof assembly 40 from the base assembly 22.

[0071] The housing 44 may have an antenna bulkhead 68 for housing / locating a Bluetooth antenna 70 and also have an interior compartment 72 with a door for a battery.

[0072] In such Figures 5 to 8 In the preferred embodiment shown, precise placement including the location and orientation of the releasable mounting system 20 on or above the vehicle roof is desired. In the preferred embodiment, the location of the GNSS / INS receiver is at a fixed distance from the GNSS antenna and the vehicle's axis of rotation. The vehicle's axis of rotation is typically the center of the vehicle's rear axle.

[0073] The releasable roof mounting system 20 is secured to the vehicle V such that the 3-axis offset of the GNSS / INS receiver relative to the GNSS antenna is fixed, while the 3-axis offset of the INS system (an inertial measurement unit IMU embedded within the GNSS / INS receiver) relative to the center of the vehicle's axis of rotation is fixed. A variety of techniques may be used to properly position and place the base assembly 22 on the vehicle roof.

[0074] One technique utilizes an alignment bar 30 that is temporarily secured to the base assembly. This technique may be required when the vehicle V does not have roof rails or does not have factory installed roof rails.

[0075] Before mounting the base assembly 22 to the vehicle roof, Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the alignment rod 30 can be connected to the base plate 24 using at least one alignment flange 32. The alignment rod 30 has a longitudinal axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the base assembly 22.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the base assembly 22 can be mounted to the roof of the vehicle with or without the roof assembly 40 attached to the base assembly 220. It may be desirable to mount and position the base assembly 22 on the roof without adding weight and height to the roof assembly 40. As described above, a variety of mechanisms may be used to releasably secure the roof assembly 40 to the base assembly 22.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, the roof assembly 40 will be mounted on the base assembly 22 in a predetermined position and orientation relative to the base assembly 22. Thus, once the base assembly 22 is positioned, oriented, and secured to the vehicle roof, the attachment of the roof assembly 40 to the mounted base assembly 22 will result in proper placement of the roof assembly 40 (including the mast assembly 80 with the anemometer 96 and antenna 92).

[0078] When the roof assembly 40 is positioned on the base assembly 22, the mast support 42 has a vertical axis that is preferably aligned with the vertical axis of the vehicle. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The longitudinal axes of the alignment rods 30 are shown to intersect and preferably intersect the longitudinal centerline of the base plate 24. Additionally, the mast support 42 is preferably located in the center of the width of the housing 44.

[0079] As described above, it is important that the GNSS / INS receiver is positioned a fixed distance from the GNSS antenna and the vehicle's axis of rotation, which is typically the center of the vehicle's rear axle. Proper positioning and placement of the system 20 on the vehicle roof relative to the center of the rear axle and the longitudinal axis of the vehicle V can be achieved using an alignment rod 30 secured to the floor 24. Preferably, the length of the alignment rod 30 is at least as long as or longer than the width of the vehicle V.

[0080] It should be understood that Fig.17 and Fig.18 The base assembly 22 is shown positioned on the vehicle V at a forward position of the roof. It has been found that the detection readings from the anemometer 96 and antenna 92 ​​are improved when the roof assembly 40 is positioned closer to the front of the roof. Preferably, the vehicle V is parked on level ground during installation of the base assembly 22. Fig.17 and Fig.18 , where the alignment rod 30 is mounted transverse to the longitudinal axis of the base plate 24 and / or the housing 44, and the middle of the length of the rod 30 is vertically positioned below the vertical axis of the mast support 42, a plumb bob 34 attached near each outer end of the alignment rod 30 can be used to properly position the roof assembly 40 with the mast support 42. Positioning the base assembly 22 on the longitudinal axis of the vehicle V can be achieved in several ways. For example, the alignment rod 30 can include incremental markings that indicate the distance from the center of the rod 30 in both directions along the length of the rod 30. The plumb bob 34 can be suspended at a height slightly above the ground via a rope wrapped around the end of the rod 30. The rope can be slid on the rod 30 until the rope just contacts the side of the vehicle V. When the rope just contacts the vehicle, the distance of the rope loops on the rod 30 is the same on both sides, and when the rope contacts each side of the vehicle at the same position in the longitudinal direction, the base assembly 22 is properly positioned on the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. It should be understood that other techniques may be used to center and align the base assembly 22 on the longitudinal axis (i.e., x-axis) of the vehicle V. The MASC mounting assembly 100 may now be activated by creating suction between the roof surface and the suction cup 108. Downward pressure may be applied to the suction cup 108 for initial engagement with the roof surface. A suction pump 112 may be used to achieve a seal. The distal end 106d of the finger 106 may be pulled away from the ear 110e and brought to a lowered position in contact with a ferrous surface of the vehicle V to provide magnetic assistance.

[0081] It should be appreciated that where portions of the roof are non-ferrous, glass, etc., the base assembly 22 may be mounted and secured to the vehicle roof using suction cups 108. The releasable mounting system 20 will reliably work with one or more suction cups 108 attached to a non-ferrous surface. Magnets 107 are provided to aid in securing the releasable mounting system 20 to a ferrous surface.

[0082] The lower nut 28 on each stud 26 of the MASC mounting assembly 100 can be adjusted to achieve a level base assembly 22, and the upper nut 28 can be tightened to provide securement of the floor 24. Preferably, the levelness of the base assembly 22 is verified in both the fore-aft and side-to-side directions. After the base assembly 22 is positioned and secured on the roof of the vehicle, the roof assembly 40 can be mounted to the base assembly 22 as described above. In addition, it should be understood that the roof assembly 40 can be removed from the base assembly 22, thereby leaving the base assembly 22 in place on the roof. In addition, the roof assembly 40 can be repeatedly and accurately mounted to the base assembly 22.

[0083] For GPS measurements, measurements from the GPS to the center axis of the vehicle are required to improve position accuracy. These measurements are recorded into the program that performs the position calculations. Fig.17 , the vertical distance D1 from the top of the rod 30 to the center of the wheel W can be determined by measuring the measurement from the top of the rod 30 to the ground (1A); measuring the measurement from the center of the rear wheel W to the ground (1B); and subtracting 1B from 1A. The horizontal distance D2 between the center of the rear wheel W and the line sinker 34 can be measured along the ground or horizontally above the ground from the rope to the center of the rear wheel W.

[0084] After distances D1 and D2 are determined, the plumb bob 34 and the rope may be removed, and the alignment rod 30 may be removed from the base assembly 22 .

[0085] A tether may be connected to the base assembly 22 and extended into the vehicle V to provide additional security.

[0086] A mast support 42 for receiving the lower end of the mast assembly 80 is mounted on the housing 44. The anemometer mast assembly 80 (preferably about 40" high) is mounted on the table 40 so that the anemometer mast assembly can pivot back and forth in the direction of movement of the vehicle V to allow the mast assembly 80 to fall if it accidentally hits an obstacle (such as a tree branch), thereby preventing damage to the instrument and the vehicle.

[0087] One aspect of the preferred embodiment is the development of a vehicle rooftop stage with a semi-permanent floor that can be secured at a specific point on the roof of the vehicle by aligning one edge of the floor with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The entire stage is mounted on a semi-permanent mount that is secured to the vehicle roof using magnetically assisted suction cups. An anemometer mast approximately 40" tall is mounted on the stage so that the anemometer mast can pivot back and forth in the direction of movement of the vehicle to allow the mast assembly 80 to fall if it strikes an obstacle, such as a tree branch, thereby preventing damage to the instrument and the vehicle.

[0088] It should also be understood that the present invention has many applications that may not require one or more of the many features described below and still be within the scope of the present invention.

[0089] Glossary

[0090] Vehicle V

[0091] Rear wheel W

[0092] Releasable mounting system 20

[0093] Base assembly 22

[0094] Bottom plate 24

[0095] Arm 24a

[0096] Opening 24o

[0097] Stud bolt 26

[0098] Nut 28

[0099] Alignment rod 30

[0100] Alignment flange 32

[0101] Line 34

[0102] Roof assembly 40

[0103] Mast support 42

[0104] Housing 44

[0105] Shell plate 46

[0106] Handle 48

[0107] Erect pillar 50

[0108] Square shaft 52

[0109] Damper 54

[0110] Magnet 56

[0111] Magnet 58

[0112] Front magnet 60

[0113] Rear magnet 62

[0114] Magnet 64

[0115] Lug nut 66

[0116] Antenna spacer 68

[0117] Bluetooth antenna 70

[0118] Internal compartment with door 72

[0119] Mast assembly 80

[0120] Tubular member 82

[0121] Tubular member 84

[0122] Tubular lock 86

[0123] Housing assembly 90

[0124] GNSS Antenna 92

[0125] Wire 92w

[0126] Tapered housing 94

[0127] Anemometer 96

[0128] Anemometer cover 96b

[0129] Tubular support 96t

[0130] Wire 96w

[0131] Magnetic Assisted Suction Cup (MASC) Mounting Assembly 100 Retention Assembly 102

[0132] Frustoconical portion 104

[0133] Flat upper surface 104s

[0134] Finger 106

[0135] Distal end 106d

[0136] Hinge 106h

[0137] Opening 106o

[0138] Proximal 106p

[0139] Receiver 106r

[0140] Flat lower surface 106s

[0141] Tab 106t

[0142] Magnet 107

[0143] Suction cup 108

[0144] Lifting piece 108t

[0145] Memory board 110

[0146] Base 110b

[0147] Ear-shaped portion 110e

[0148] Suction pump 112

[0149] Pump rod 112r

[0150] Tubular insert 112t

[0151] Pump bracket 114

[0152] Fastener 114f

[0153] Accessory mounting parts 114m

[0154] The above disclosure and description of the present invention are illustrative and explanatory, and various changes may be made to the size, shape and materials and details of the illustrated structures without departing from the gist of the present invention. Therefore, the present embodiment is considered to be illustrative rather than restrictive, the scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the preceding description, and therefore all changes falling within the equivalent meaning and range of the claims are intended to be included therein.

[0155] Although the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that modifications and variations may be made to the disclosed embodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. All such modifications and variations are intended to be covered. In addition, all publications cited herein are indicative of the state of the art and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, as if each were individually incorporated by reference and fully set forth.

Claims

1. A releasable mounting system for semi-permanent attachment to a ferrous surface, comprising: A base assembly (22) comprising: Bottom plate (24); A plurality of magnetic auxiliary suction cup mounting assemblies (100) for semi-permanent attachment to the ferrous material surface, the plurality of magnetic auxiliary suction cup mounting assemblies (100) being connected to the base plate, each magnetic auxiliary suction cup mounting assembly (100) comprising: a suction cup (108); and At least one magnet (107) provides additional securing of the base assembly (22) to the ferrous material surface.

2. The releasable mounting system of claim 1, wherein: Each magnetically assisted chuck mounting assembly (100) further includes a suction pump (112) for drawing a vacuum between the chuck (108) and the ferrous material surface.

3. The releasable mounting system of claim 1 , wherein: The at least one magnet (107) has a raised position in which the at least one magnet (107) is away from the ferrous material surface when the suction cup (108) is initially placed on the ferrous material surface.

4. A releasable mounting system according to claim 3, wherein: The at least one magnet (107) has a lowered position in which the at least one magnet (107) is adjacent to or in contact with the surface of the ferrous material.

5. The releasable mounting system of claim 1 , further comprising: A roof assembly (40) releasably connected to the base assembly (22), the roof assembly (40) comprising: A mast assembly (80) comprising a mast support (42) and tubular members (82, 84); a housing (44) having a pair of upright posts (50) aligned parallel to a longitudinal axis of the housing (44), the pair of upright posts (50) being spaced apart from one another by a distance that allows the mast support (42) to be positioned between and pivotally mounted to the pair of upright posts (50), The mast assembly (80) is biased in an upright position and is permitted to pivot in at least one direction from the upright position.

6. The releasable mounting system of claim 5, further comprising: The upper portion of each vertical support (50) includes a support magnet (56); The mast support (42) includes a pair of mounted support magnets (58), When the mast support (42) is in the upright position, there is an attractive force between the support magnet (56) and the support magnet (58), and the magnetic attractive force biases the mast assembly (80) in the upright position.

7. The releasable mounting system of claim 6, further comprising: a first repelling magnet (64) on the mast support (42); as well as a second repelling magnet (62) on the housing (44), Wherein, as the mast assembly (80) pivots from the biased upright position in at least one direction, the first repulsion magnet (64) moves closer to the second repulsion magnet (62), and a repulsion force is generated when the repulsion magnets (64, 62) approach each other, and the repulsion force is used to inhibit the mast assembly 80 from falling.

8. The releasable mounting system of claim 6, further comprising: a shaft (52) rotatably mounted to the upright support (50) and connected to the mast support (42); as well as at least one damper (54) attached to one of the vertical struts (50), wherein the shaft (52) is connected to the at least one damper (54) and the at least one damper (54) inhibits movement of the pivotally mounted mast assembly (80) as the shaft partially rotates with the mast assembly (80) as the mast assembly (80) pivots from the upright position.

9. The releasable mounting system of claim 5, wherein: The mast assembly (80) further comprises: An upper housing assembly (90) has a tapered housing (94) that provides support and protection for an anemometer (96).

10. A releasable mounting system for semi-permanent attachment to a surface, comprising: A roof assembly (40), the roof assembly (40) comprising: A mast assembly (80) comprising a mast support (42), tubular members (82, 84), and an upper housing assembly (90) including an antenna (92) and an anemometer (96), the antenna (92) being mounted above the anemometer (96) at the highest point of the mast assembly (80); and a housing (44) having a pair of upright posts (50) aligned parallel to a longitudinal axis of the housing (44), the pair of upright posts (50) being spaced apart from one another by a distance allowing the mast support (42) to be positioned therebetween and pivotally mounted thereto, The mast assembly (80) is biased in an upright position and is permitted to pivot in at least one direction from the upright position.

11. The releasable mounting system of claim 10, wherein: The upper housing assembly (90) also includes a tapered housing (94) that provides support and protection for the mounted anemometer (96) and antenna (92).

12. The releasable mounting system of claim 10, further comprising: The upper portion of each vertical support (50) includes a support magnet (56); The mast support (42) includes a pair of mounted support magnets (58), When the mast support (42) is in the upright position, there is an attractive force between the support magnet (56) and the support magnet (58), and the magnetic attractive force biases the mast assembly (80) in the upright position.

13. The releasable mounting system of claim 12, further comprising: a first repelling magnet (64) on the mast support (42); as well as a second repelling magnet (62) on the housing (44), Wherein, as the mast assembly (80) pivots from the biased upright position in at least one direction, the first repulsion magnet (64) moves closer to the second repulsion magnet (62), and a repulsion force is generated when the repulsion magnets (64, 62) approach each other, and the repulsion force is used to inhibit the mast assembly 80 from falling.

14. The releasable mounting system of claim 12, further comprising: a shaft (52) rotatably mounted to the upright support (50) and connected to the mast support (42); as well as at least one damper (54) attached to one of the vertical struts (50), wherein the shaft (52) is connected to the at least one damper (54) and the at least one damper (54) inhibits movement of the pivotally mounted mast assembly (80) as the shaft partially rotates with the mast assembly (80) as the mast assembly (80) pivots from the upright position.

15. The releasable mounting system of claim 10, further comprising: a base assembly (22) having a plurality of magnetic auxiliary chuck mounting assemblies (100) for semi-permanent attachment to a ferrous material surface, Wherein, the roof assembly (40) is connected to the base assembly (22).

16. The releasable mounting system of claim 15, wherein: The base assembly further comprises: a base plate (24) to which the plurality of magnetic auxiliary suction cup mounting assemblies (100) are adjustably connected; Each magnetic auxiliary suction cup mounting assembly (100) comprises: a suction cup (108); and At least one magnet (107) provides additional securing of the base assembly (22) to the ferrous material surface.

17. The releasable mounting system of claim 16, wherein: Each magnetically assisted chuck mounting assembly (100) further includes a suction pump (112) for drawing a vacuum between the chuck (108) and the ferrous material surface.

18. The releasable mounting system of claim 16, wherein: The at least one magnet (107) has a raised position in which the at least one magnet (107) is away from the ferrous material surface when the suction cup (108) is initially placed on the ferrous material surface.

19. The releasable mounting system of claim 18, wherein: The at least one magnet (107) has a lowered position in which the at least one magnet (107) is adjacent to or in contact with the surface of the ferrous material.

20. A method for semi-permanently attaching a mounting system to a ferrous surface of a vehicle roof, the mounting system comprising a base assembly having a plurality of magnetically assisted suction cup assemblies, the method comprising the steps of: positioning a plurality of magnets of the magnetic auxiliary chuck assembly in a raised position; positioning the base assembly on the roof of the vehicle so that the suction cup contacts the ferrous surface; drawing a vacuum between the suction cup and the surface of the ferrous material; as well as The plurality of magnets are moved to a lowered position in contact with the surface of the ferrous material.

21. The method of claim 20 further comprising the step of orienting and aligning the base assembly with a longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

22. The method according to claim 21, further comprising the steps of: releasably connecting a roof assembly to the base assembly, the roof assembly comprising a mast assembly pivotally mounted to the housing; as well as The mast assembly is biased in an indexed upright position.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein: The step of biasing the mast assembly in the indexed upright position is accomplished by magnets.

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