Clamping Bracket Single-Handed Operation Anchor Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mobile phone holders require two hands to operate, making it inconvenient for tasks that require single-hand use, such as driving.

Innovation Solution

A clamping bracket with a base casing, clamping mechanism, driving mechanism, and anchor mechanism that allows single-handed operation by using a sliding and gear system to grip and release mobile devices, featuring an elastomer for state switching and adjustable width.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional grip-style holding stand is used, then the mobile device can be securely held, but two hands are required for operation which reduces ease of operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesingle-handed operation capabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the clamping function and the driving function into a single integrated mechanism. The transmission member simultaneously drives both clamping members to move toward each other for gripping, allowing one-handed operation while maintaining secure holding capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The anchor mechanism automatically locks the transmission member at desired positions without requiring manual intervention. The elastomer-driven anchor member engages with plug-in positions on the base casing to self-lock the clamping bracket at adjustable widths

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If the clamping bracket structure is simplified for single-handed operation, then ease of operation improves, but the precision of clamping position control may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesingle-handed operation capabilityVSAvoidclamping position control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The base casing includes multiple plug-in positions arranged at different locations, allowing the anchor member to lock at discrete predetermined positions. This segmentation provides precise position control while maintaining simple operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The transmission member acts as an intermediary between the anchor member and the clamping members. It translates the anchoring action into precise synchronized movement of both clamping members, ensuring accurate positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables single-handed operation and adjustable clamping width for various devices, eliminating the need for two-handed coordination and providing a cost-effective, user-friendly solution.

Implementation Method 1

the first anchor member is switched from the lock state to the unlock state during an elastic expansion of the elastomer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic expansion: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the first anchor member is switched from the unlock state to the lock state during and an elastic recovery of the elastomer from the elastic expansion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic recovery: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

the transmission member includes a gear rotatably connected to the base casing and wherein a first clamping gear rack, located on one side of the first sliding member, contains gear teeth meshed with the gear of said transmission member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGear mechanism: Gear

Implementation Method 4

a first clamping gear rack, located on one side of the first sliding member, contains gear teeth meshed with the gear of said transmission member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRack and pinion: Rack and Pinion

Data Source

PatentEP3716591B1Clamping support
Publication Date: 2021.06.09 GUANGDONG GOPOD GRP HLDG CO LTD
  • EP3716591B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3716591B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A clamping bracket includes base casing, clamping mechanism, driving mechanism, and anchor mechanism. Clamping mechanism includes first and second clamping members. Driving mechanism includes a first sliding member being connected to the first clamping member and being slidingly connected to the base casing, and a transmission member being connected to the base casing. Through the transmission member's own movement, transmission member drives the first clamping member to move toward or away from the second clamping member. Anchor mechanism includes a first anchor member that connects to the transmission member and a second anchor member that connects to the base casing. The first anchor member is in an unlock state when separating from the second anchor member and in a lock state when engaging with the second anchor member. Anchor mechanism allows the variable distance between the first clamping member and the second clamping member for holding different mobile devices.