Chest-Mounted Binocular Support for Fatigue-Free Field Viewing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Binocular users experience fatigue from holding binoculars for extended periods, and existing solutions for mounting binoculars are cumbersome, time-consuming, and impractical for field use due to complex and bulky equipment requirements.

Innovation Solution

A self-contained binocular sighting system featuring a telescoping arm and chest-mounted monopod with a simple, lightweight design that allows easy setup and teardown, enabling hands-free binocular use without additional equipment or adjustments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If binoculars are held up to the eyes for extended periods, then binocular viewing is achieved, but fatigue to the arms and shoulders occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveduration of binocular useVSAvoidfatigue to arms and shoulders
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The binocular support system is divided into separate functional components: a chest-mounted support structure and a head-mounted binocular holder connected by an adjustable arm. This segmentation allows the weight-bearing function to be separated from the binocular-holding function, enabling extended use without shoulder fatigue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An adjustable arm acts as an intermediary mechanism between the chest-mounted support and the binocular holder. This intermediary transfers the weight burden from the shoulders to the chest while maintaining proper binocular positioning, eliminating direct shoulder strain during extended viewing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If binoculars are mounted on tripods, then stable viewing is achieved, but time-consuming set-up and take-down is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of binocular mountingVSAvoidset-up and take-down time
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The chest-mounted support system serves multiple functions: it provides stable binocular mounting, acts as a portable carry solution, and enables quick deployment and stowage. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate tripod setup while maintaining stability during viewing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates adjustable and movable components including an adjustable arm length and rotatable joints that allow rapid adaptation to different viewing conditions. This dynamic design enables quick setup and takedown compared to fixed tripod structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If complex mounting mechanisms are used to solve fatigue, then binocular support is achieved, but the mechanisms become cumbersome and heavy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefatigue reliefVSAvoidweight of support equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The chest-mounted support system leverages the user's own body (chest and shoulders) as the primary support structure, eliminating the need for heavy external mounting equipment. The lightweight adjustable arm and holder provide fatigue relief without adding significant weight, as the user's body serves the support function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Stability of the object's composition

If bulky equipment is used for mounting binoculars, then stable support is achieved, but portability and field practicality are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of binocular mountingVSAvoidportability for field use
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable arm and binocular holder nest within or attach to the chest-mounted support structure, creating a compact integrated system. This nested design maintains stability when deployed while minimizing bulk during transport, enabling true field practicality without sacrificing mounting stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS11209639B2Self-contained binocular sighting system
Publication Date: 2021.12.28 ACKERMAN JIM
  • US11209639B2 patent drawing
  • US11209639B2 patent drawing
  • US11209639B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosure includes a monopod adapted for a pack or harness. It utilizes a simple mechanism which is lightweight, self-contained and easy to set-up and take down. The user never has to access another piece of equipment, nor assemble or disassemble any parts in use. Indeed, the user can access or store binoculars while on the move. The user can also shift to other fields of view instantly, without having to turn, re-level or adjust the set-up, as would be required with a tripod. The disclosure comprises a scope bracket configured to rotatably attach to a scope mount. A telescoping arm attaches to the scope bracket in a first angle relative to the telescoping arm. A telescoping arm bracket rotatably attaches to the telescoping arm in a second angle relative to the telescoping arm. A back plate supports the telescoping arm bracket against a chest of a user.