Cable-Concealing Universal Mount With Independent Pan-Tilt Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal mounts for devices in vehicles fail to maintain adjustability and tamper-resistance due to issues like drooping from heat, wear and tear, and exposed wiring, which limits adjustability and poses safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A universal adjustable mount comprising a base, extension arm, collar member, and swivel adapter that allows for tool-free adjustment and conceals wiring through hollow elements, providing spherical angular flexibility and secure locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two axes of movement are incorporated into a swivel mount, then positioning flexibility is improved, but adjustment time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the positioning function into two independent segments: pan rotation (horizontal axis) and tilt adjustment (vertical axis). Each axis has its own locking mechanism that can be operated independently. This segmentation allows operators to adjust one axis without affecting the other, significantly reducing adjustment time and complexity compared to interdependent two-axis systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting components incorporate dynamic adjustment capabilities with quick-release locking mechanisms. The extension arm, collar member, and swivel adapter can be quickly adjusted and locked into position without requiring extensive manual manipulation. This dynamic design maintains positioning flexibility while minimizing the time and effort required for adjustments.
2Reliability
If a bolt, nut, clamp, or tightening element is incorporated to increase frictional forces, then position maintenance is improved, but adjustability complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical tightening systems (bolts, nuts, clamps) with a spring-loaded friction-based locking mechanism. The spring applies constant pressure to maintain frictional forces between contacting surfaces, ensuring position maintenance without requiring operator intervention for tightening. This substitution maintains reliability while significantly reducing adjustment mechanism complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded locking mechanism is self-regulating, automatically maintaining the necessary frictional forces to hold the mounted device in position. The spring continuously applies pressure to the contacting surfaces, providing self-service position maintenance without requiring external tightening elements that would increase device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting apparatus for mounting a device, preferably to a surface of a vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting apparatus may comprise a base, a first intermediate component, a second intermediate component, and an adapter. The first intermediate component may be engageable to the base in at least two positions relative to the base. The second intermediate component may be engageable to the first intermediate component in at least two positions relative to the first intermediate component. The adapter may be engageable to the second intermediate component in at least two positions relative to the second intermediate component. The adapter may also be engageable to the device. The first intermediate component, the second intermediate component, and the adapter may be adjustable to position the device in a plurality of predetermined positions relative to the base, and may also be configured to receive a wire.