Combined Tripod Structure for Compact Folding and Quick Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The utilization rate of space in traditional tripods is low, and they are not conducive for storage.
Innovation Solution
A combined tripod design that integrates a son frame and a mother frame through a main connecting frame, allowing the son frame to function as a center shaft for height adjustment and forming two independent tripods when separated, with a unique locking mechanism for quick unfolding and folding, and a Y-shaped supporting frame for stiffness and parallelism, along with telescopic legs and a compact spatial structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional tripod structure is used, then simplicity of structure is maintained, but space utilization is low and storage is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a main frame and an auxiliary frame into a single integrated tripod structure. The auxiliary frame's central shaft can be inserted into the main frame's leg tubes, and both frames share common buckles and connecting mechanisms. This merging allows the tripod to achieve compact folding configuration while maintaining structural simplicity through shared components.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary frame's central shaft is designed to be inserted into the hollow leg tubes of the main frame. When folded, the central shaft nests within the leg tubes, and the Y-shaped supporting frame can be positioned within the overall structure. This nesting arrangement maximizes space utilization and enables compact storage without significantly increasing structural complexity.
2Productivity
If quick locking mechanism is implemented, then deployment speed is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle mechanism is designed to automatically lock when the leg tubes are extended to their desired position. The buckles engage with the leg tubes through simple mechanical interference, requiring no additional actuators or complex locking mechanisms. This self-locking feature enables quick deployment while maintaining ease of manufacture through simple mechanical design.
3Volume of moving object
If compact spatial structure is achieved, then storage convenience is improved, but leg stiffness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tripod is divided into two independent but complementary frames: the main frame with three leg tubes and the auxiliary frame with a central shaft and Y-shaped supporting frame. When deployed, these segmented structures work together to provide stability and stiffness. The segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The leg tubes are designed with circular cross-sections that provide uniform strength in all directions. The Y-shaped supporting frame uses curved or angled members that distribute loads efficiently. These geometric choices maintain leg stiffness while allowing compact folding configurations, as circular sections nest more efficiently and curved members can accommodate folding movements.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a combined tripod. An auxiliary frame and a main frame are combined together through a main connecting frame. When the auxiliary frame and the main frame are combined for use, the auxiliary frame is used as a center shaft and plays a role of adjusting a height; and when the auxiliary frame is separated from the main frame, two tripods with independent functions are formed. An outwards pulled buckle lock, i.e. a locking mechanism, of the main frame uses an innovative design, which is conductive for quick unfolding and folding. Three main frame legs can be as close as possible to each other, so that an occupied space is reduced. Central shaft legs of the auxiliary frame can be inserted into outer gaps between the three main frame legs; and a cross-sectional shape can be determined according to a gap envelop shape, thereby forming the most compact spatial structure. A basic structure of the auxiliary frame is a traditional structure, with a safety tail plug designed at a tail end to prevent accidental separation and slippage of the auxiliary frame.