Body-Mounted Ruggedized Display Holder for Tactical Situational Awareness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for carrying electronic devices, such as tablet computers, in tactical environments like combat or firefighting are inaccessible and inefficient, as they require removing the device from its storage to access critical data, disrupting situational awareness and operational control.
Innovation Solution
A ruggedized, hands-free body-mounted portable display device holder that attaches to body armor, allowing for hands-free viewing and rapid access to electronic devices like tablets or smartphones, using thermoplastic materials like Kydex for field manufacturability and adjustability, ensuring compatibility with various devices and environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electronic devices are carried in pockets, pouches, or ruck sacks, then the device is protected from damage, but the device becomes inaccessible during movement and disrupts situational awareness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the device storage from traditional horizontal/vertical pockets to a three-dimensional body-mounted configuration that positions the device within the operator's field of view, enabling rapid access without removing the device from its protective mounting location
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid support structure and mounting system serve as an intermediary between the operator's body and the electronic device, providing both protection and rapid accessibility while maintaining situational awareness through strategic positioning
2Productivity
If electronic devices are stored in pockets or bags, then the device is protected, but rapid access and storage is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-positioned in a mounted configuration that is immediately accessible during movement, eliminating the need to reach into pockets or bags and reducing access time to near-instantaneous retrieval
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system allows the device to remain securely attached during movement while enabling rapid removal and reattachment, adapting to the dynamic nature of tactical operations
3Ease of manufacture
If device holders are made from field manufacturable materials like thermoplastics, then the holder can be fabricated in remote areas, but the holder may lack durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thermoplastic materials like Kydex that combine the field manufacturability of plastics with enhanced strength and rigidity properties, creating a composite-like performance that satisfies both manufacturing and durability requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The thermoplastic material properties are optimized through parameter changes in material selection and processing, achieving a balance between ease of field fabrication and sufficient structural strength for tactical use
Data Source
AI summary
Various systems and methods are provided for increasing situational awareness of an operator carrying, integrating, and using a combination of equipment items in a variety of operating environments in a compact configuration enabling rapid viewing and access or stowage with minimized eye and hand movement. In particular, embodiments include apparatuses and methods associated with a ruggedized hands-free body mounted portable display device holder. In particular, various embodiments are provided which enable an operator to use a combination equipment together in a body mounted system which increase situational awareness and ability to operate using a variety of body mounted equipment as well as carried equipment that reduce mass or streamline the operator's equipment loadout that is carried on their body e.g., body armor with equipment mounting loops or sewn strips.