Adjustable Bracket Retention for Quick-Release Device Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support apparatuses for devices like cameras, rifles, and binoculars lack adjustable and retention mechanisms that allow for easy setup, secure positioning, and versatile use across different orientations and environments.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus features a support member with a retaining mechanism comprising a first and second bracket, a base, and an adjustment mechanism with a coupler and interlock system, enabling rotation and translation to securely attach and detach devices, and an actuator to toggle between locked and unlocked states for adjustable support configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a retaining mechanism with rotation and translation capability is implemented, then the adaptability and versatility of the support apparatus is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining mechanism employs nested brackets where the second bracket is positioned within or adjacent to the first bracket, allowing both brackets to rotate about a common axis of rotation. This nesting arrangement enables multiple degrees of freedom (rotation and translation) while consolidating the mechanical structure, thereby increasing adaptability without proportionally increasing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The support apparatus incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through the rotating brackets that can change orientation about an axis of rotation. The second bracket's ability to translate perpendicular to the rotation axis during rotation provides continuous adjustability. An actuator enables transitions between locked and unlocked states, allowing the system to dynamically adapt between fixed and adjustable configurations
2Ease of operation
If an actuator is added to toggle between locked and unlocked states, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is integrated into the retaining mechanism such that it directly controls the locking and unlocking states of the brackets. When activated, the actuator enables or disables rotation about the axis of rotation, allowing users to quickly transition between secured and adjustable configurations without complex external control systems. This self-contained actuation improves operational ease while minimizing added complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If the second bracket translates during rotation, then the adaptability of the retaining mechanism is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base includes a curved channel that guides the translation of the second bracket during rotation. This curved geometry is designed to accommodate the translational movement while maintaining proper alignment and spacing between the brackets. The curved path provides the necessary geometric constraints to achieve smooth translation without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances, as the curvature itself guides the motion
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable support apparatus can include a first bracket, a second bracket, and a base coupled to the first bracket. The first and second brackets can be rotatable relative to the base and the second bracket can translate relative to the first bracket. In a first configuration, the first and second brackets can be adjacent one another to retain a device (e.g., a mount, a camera, binoculars, a firearm, etc.) to the adjustable support apparatus. In a second configuration, the first and second brackets can be rotated relative to the base and the second bracket can translate away from the first bracket to release the device from the adjustable support apparatus.