Modular Bumper Attachment for Space-Saving Hammock Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle-mounted hammock frames are not modular and often occupy valuable space, requiring a towing receiver or mounting rails, which are not always available on personal vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A modular bumper attachment system with attachment members and support members that can be removably attached to a vehicle's bumper, allowing for the securement of hammocks, tents, and other items without the need for towing receivers or mounting rails, utilizing clamping mechanisms for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional hammock frame is used, then the hammock can be suspended, but the frame becomes large and bulky requiring significant storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The hammock suspension system is divided into separate components: attachment members that connect to the vehicle bumper, support members that provide structural support, and the hammock itself. This segmentation allows each component to be compact and easily stored when not in use, while still providing full suspension capability when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment members are designed with universal adaptability to connect to various vehicle types without requiring specialized mounting hardware. The support members can accommodate different hammock configurations, making the system versatile for multiple camping and travel scenarios while maintaining compact storage.
2Reliability
If a hammock frame with mounting rails or towing receiver is used, then the hammock can be securely attached, but valuable vehicle space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the mounting function from specialized vehicle hardware (towing receivers or mounting rails) and relocates it to universal attachment points that are already present on most vehicles. This allows secure hammock attachment without occupying valuable vehicle space that would be required for dedicated mounting systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment members are designed to universally interface with various vehicle types using existing structural elements, eliminating the need for vehicle-specific mounting hardware. This universal design maintains secure attachment capability while preserving vehicle space for other uses.
3Device complexity
If a non-modular hammock frame is used, then the structure is simple, but the system cannot be adapted to different vehicles or configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The hammock frame is segmented into modular components (attachment members, support members, connectors) that can be independently selected and configured. This modular segmentation maintains relative structural simplicity while enabling adaptation to different vehicle types and hammock configurations through selective component assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular component design allows the system to dynamically adapt to different vehicles and configurations. Components can be added, removed, or reconfigured based on the specific vehicle and desired hammock setup, providing versatility without requiring a completely different system for each application.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular bumper attachment system configured to be attached or mounted to the bumper of a vehicle or base member. The modular bumper attachment system may include a first attachment member and a second attachment member, each attachment member having a receiving member and an aperture defined by an outer wall that is configured to encompass the bumper of a vehicle. The system may also include one or more support members that are removably attached to the receiving member of each attachment member. The support member may have a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is removably attached to the receiving member. The second end of each support member may extend in a generally outward direction from the base member and include one or more connectors configured to removably attach a hammock, tent, awning, storage container, cooler, etc. to the support member.