Cam-Based Armour Mounting Assembly for Vehicle Net Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing net-based armour systems for vehicles face issues with rigid support frames distorting under heavy loads, leading to potential damage and malfunction, and alternative flexible support arms require shear pin replacement and do not allow minor deflections.
Innovation Solution
A mounting assembly with a cam surface and spring-biased cam follower allows the arm to be in multiple positions, enabling minor deflections and returning to a normal position, with the option to manually move into a storage position by overcoming the biasing force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid support frames are used to mount net-based armour, then the frame functions well in supporting the net, but the frame can distort when heavily loaded, causing damage and malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly transitions from a static rigid frame to a dynamic system with an arm that can pivot between positions. The cam surface and cam follower mechanism enable controlled movement, allowing the arm to deflect under heavy loads and return to its operational position, preventing permanent distortion while maintaining support capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the positional parameter of the arm through the cam mechanism. The cam surface geometry controls the arm's position, allowing it to move between operational and retracted positions while maintaining structural integrity under varying load conditions.
2Reliability
If shear pins are used in support arms to allow deflection, then the arm can pivot to prevent damage, but the shear pin requires replacement after breaking and does not permit minor deflections
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded cam follower mechanism automatically returns the arm to its operational position after deflection, eliminating the need for manual intervention or component replacement. The system self-resets after absorbing impacts, unlike shear pins that require replacement after breaking.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by storing elastic potential energy during deflection and releasing it to return the arm to its operational position. This pre-configured energy storage system prevents damage while allowing continuous operation without maintenance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the arm is rigidly attached to the base, then the mounting assembly is stable, but the arm cannot deflect to absorb impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is dynamically connected to the base through a pivot joint controlled by the cam mechanism. This dynamic connection allows the arm to rotate and absorb impacts while the cam surface maintains stable positioning in operational and retracted states, combining stability with impact absorption capability.
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
The solution provides a flexible mounting system that can absorb minor impacts and return to its normal position, preventing damage while allowing easy storage, enhancing the durability and usability of net-based armour systems.
Implementation Method 1
the cam follower being spring biased to positively locate the roller bearing within the recesses
Implementation Method 2
enabling minor deflections and returning to a normal position
Implementation Method 3
the base comprises a cam surface and the arm comprises a cam follower biased against the cam surface
Data Source
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AI summary
A mounting assembly (10, 100, 200), comprising: a base (12, 112, 212), for attaching the mounting assembly (10, 100, 200) to a vehicle or structure; and an arm (13, 113, 213), connected to the base (12, 112, 212), for attaching an object to the mounting assembly (10, 100, 200), wherein the base (12, 112, 212) comprises a cam surface (16, 116, 216) and the arm (13, 113, 213) comprises a cam follower (28, 128, 228) biased against the cam surface (16, 116, 216), the cam surface (16, 116, 216) being shaped such that the arm (13, 113, 213) can be located in at least two distinct positions.