Articulating Tool Support Rig for Stable Hands-Free Carry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for stabilizing tools, such as cameras and firearms, on a worker's body fail to provide efficient and versatile support, limiting the worker's ability to use their hands for other tasks while carrying the tool load.
Innovation Solution
A support system comprising a vertically oriented rigid frame with swiveling and pivoting connectors and arms, allowing for adjustable orientation and compact storage, including a cover for concealment and a backpack attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid support structure is used to stabilize the tool, then the tool stability is improved, but the device complexity and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple independent components: a frame shaft, a first articulation piece, a second articulation piece, and an arm. Each segment can move independently through swiveling and pivoting connectors, allowing the structure to stabilize the tool while maintaining flexibility and reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are designed to allow dynamic movement between components. The first articulation piece can pivot relative to the frame shaft, the second articulation piece can pivot relative to the first, and the arm can swivel and pivot relative to the second articulation piece. This dynamic capability enables the structure to adapt to different positions while maintaining tool stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the support structure is made adjustable and versatile, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed with multiple articulation points and movement capabilities that allow it to perform various functions. The same connectors and articulation pieces that enable stability also provide adjustability for different tool positions, orientations, and configurations, making the structure universally applicable to different tools and working conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation pieces and connectors are nested within each other in a hierarchical manner. The first articulation piece contains the second, which contains the arm with its swiveling and pivoting capabilities. This nested arrangement allows multiple degrees of freedom and configurations while maintaining a compact and manageable structure.
3Ease of operation
If the support structure is compact for storage, then the ease of movement is improved, but the adjustability range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic connectors allow the structure to transition between compact and extended configurations. When not in use, the articulation pieces can be positioned to minimize the overall footprint for compact storage. When needed, the same dynamic connectors enable full adjustment range for various tool positions and orientations.
Data Source
AI summary
A rig for supporting a tool that comprises webbing configured to be attached to a vertically oriented torso of a person. A rigid frame is attached to the webbing. A first connector is attached to the frame and configured in relation to the frame such that the first connector may swivel about a first elongate axis, whereby the first connector does not move further from, or closer to, the frame shaft when the first connector swivels about the first elongate axis. A first articulation piece having a first end and a second end opposite the first end is provided. The first end is attached to the first connector, and the first connector is configured in relation to the articulation piece so that the articulation piece may pivot about the first connector, whereby the articulation piece moves closer to, alternatively further from, the frame shaft when the articulation piece pivots.