Anti-Rotation Clamp Mount Geometry for Stable Device Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile device mounting systems for vehicles and other moving platforms face challenges in providing stability under rotational and vibrational loads, leading to potential re-adjustment needs during operation, which can distract users and compromise safety.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system with a clamp assembly and connecting elements featuring geometric inhibitors such as teeth or splines that engage to prevent rotation, combined with a ball mount with protrusions or indentations, to enhance rotational stability and holding force while allowing angular adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the mobile device is supported at only one end of the clamping component or is cantilevered away from the mounting system, then the device can be mounted in various positions, but the arms and clamping components are subject to large rotational forces that cause them to move and reposition themselves
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element incorporates asymmetric geometric inhibitors (teeth or splines) that create directional resistance to rotation. These inhibitors are positioned and shaped to provide varying resistance levels in different rotational directions, allowing the system to accommodate mounting flexibility while preventing unwanted rotation under load through asymmetric engagement geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a simple cylindrical connecting element to a multi-dimensional geometry with teeth or splines that engage with corresponding features in the clamp body. This adds a radial dimension to the previously axial connection, creating a two-dimensional engagement surface that resists rotational forces while maintaining positional adaptability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If geometric inhibitors such as teeth or splines are added to the connecting element to prevent rotation, then rotational stability is improved, but the complexity of the connecting element and clamp assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The geometric inhibitors (teeth or splines) are integrated directly into the connecting element as a unified structure rather than being separate components. This merging of the anti-rotation feature with the primary connecting function reduces the total number of parts and simplifies assembly while achieving both connection and rotational stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary mechanical connection between the mount and clamp body, enables angular adjustment during assembly, and prevents rotation under load through its geometric inhibitors. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the clamp assembly is designed to prevent rotation under load, then stability is improved, but the ability to freely adjust the position and orientation of the mobile device during assembly is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system exhibits dynamic behavior where the geometric inhibitors engage differently under various conditions. During assembly, when minimal load is applied, the inhibitors allow free movement and adjustment. Under operational load, the same inhibitors engage to prevent rotation, providing the required stability. This dynamic response resolves the contradiction between adjustability and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement characteristics of the geometric inhibitors change based on the applied load parameter. During assembly with low load, the inhibitors remain disengaged or loosely engaged, allowing freedom of movement. When the device is mounted and subjected to operational loads, the inhibitors engage firmly to prevent rotation, with the engagement parameter automatically adjusting based on the applied force.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system for supporting an electronic device includes a mount and a connecting element coupled to the mount. The connecting element may include an interface body and a first plurality of engaging elements. The interface body may include a first body portion and a second body portion, and extend axially between an axial end of the connecting element and the first body portion. The second body portion may have a reduced diameter relative to the first body portion. The first plurality of engaging elements may be configured to engage with a clamp body to substantially prevent rotation of the clamp body with respect to the connecting element.