Quick Coupling for Body Camera Using Crossbar and Receiver
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack a quick and reliable way to securely connect and disconnect body cameras from mount points, such as uniforms or docking stations, without accidental removal.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system featuring a T-shaped connector with a post and crossbar on the body camera and a receiver with an entry opening, slot, and block on the mount point, allowing for secure engagement through specific sequential movements to ensure the camera remains attached unless deliberately disconnected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple attachment method is used for body cameras, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to accidental removal
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism uses dynamic sequential movements (insertion followed by rotation) to engage, transforming a static attachment problem into a dynamic process. This ensures that accidental single-direction movements cannot disengage the camera, while deliberate sequential actions are required for secure attachment and removal.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a traditional lockable mechanism that requires twisting or threading, the invention inverts the approach by using a insertion-then-rotation sequence that naturally locks into place. The engagement process is reversed from conventional wisdom: rather than rotating first then inserting, the crossbar inserts first then rotates to engage the block.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is used for body cameras, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex engagement steps
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the crossbar for initial insertion, the block for rotational engagement, and the slot for guiding movement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function in the engagement sequence, making the overall process reliable yet manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The crossbar performs a preliminary insertion action that prepares the connector for the subsequent rotational engagement with the block. This preliminary action ensures that the connector is properly positioned before the locking rotation occurs, making the overall engagement process more reliable and easier to execute correctly.
3Ease of operation
If a quick release mechanism is used for body cameras, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to inadvertent detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The detachment process uses dynamic sequential movements (rotation followed by withdrawal) that are the reverse of the engagement sequence. This dynamic approach ensures that accidental single-direction movements cannot detach the camera, while deliberate sequential actions enable easy removal when intended.
4Reliability
If a complex engagement sequence is used for body cameras, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement sequence merges two distinct movements (insertion and rotation) into a single coupling action. The crossbar and block work together as an integrated system where the insertion of the crossbar followed by rotation of the connector accomplishes both positioning and locking in one continuous process, reducing the perceived complexity despite the multi-step nature of engagement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quick and secure attachment and detachment of body cameras to various mount points, ensuring the camera remains securely connected unless intentionally removed, enhancing reliability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
moving the post along the slot to frictionally engage parts on the receiver and hold the connector in a mounted position on the receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling releasably secures an item such as a body camera to a mount point. The coupling includes a connector and a receiver. The connector includes a crossbar and a post. The receiver includes an opening and a slot. The crossbar moves through the entry opening and the connector is rotated relative to the receiver. The post of the connector is moved through the slot to engage the receiver and hold the connector in a mounted position on the receiver, thereby securing the item to the mount point. Embodiments of the present disclosure also involve methods for securing the item to the mount point using a connector and receiver, as well as systems for mounting an item using a connector, receiver, and mount point.