Elastomeric Flashlight Mounting System with Rotatable Joints
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users of hand-operated flashlights face challenges in holding and directing the light while maintaining the use of their hands for other tasks, often resorting to holding the flashlight in their mouth or seeking assistance to free up a hand.
Innovation Solution
A flashlight mounting system comprising elastomeric mount portions that can rotate relative to each other, secured by a shaft, with straps to attach the flashlight to a support structure, allowing adjustable orientation and secure mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the flashlight is held in the user's hand, then the flashlight can be directed and controlled, but the user's hands are occupied and cannot be used for other tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a first elastomeric mount portion that interfaces with the flashlight, a second elastomeric mount portion that interfaces with the support structure, and a fastener that connects them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve secure mounting without occupying the user's hands
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric mount portions provide elastic compliance that acts as a mechanical counterbalance to the forces applied during mounting and operation. The elastomeric material deforms elastically under load, providing a compliant mounting solution that secures the flashlight firmly to the support structure while allowing for easy release when needed
2Ease of operation
If the flashlight is securely mounted to a support structure, then hands-free operation is achieved, but the ability to adjust the light's orientation becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic adjustable connection. The elastomeric mount portions allow for controlled movement and repositioning of the flashlight relative to the support structure. The elastic compliance enables the mounted flashlight to be repositioned by applying force to overcome the elastic resistance, then locked into place, providing both security and adjustability
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for changes in the mounting parameters such as position and orientation by utilizing the elastic deformation capabilities of the elastomeric material. By changing the applied force parameters, the flashlight can be positioned at different angles and secured, or released for repositioning
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 users to maintain hands-free operation by securely mounting the flashlight to a support, allowing for easy adjustment of the light's orientation without the need for additional assistance, enhancing usability in various contexts.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastomeric mount portion, a second elastomeric mount portion
Implementation Method 2
The first interface surface may have a set of teeth that are continuous along the rim of the barrel, and that interface with corresponding teeth on the other elastomeric mount portion
Implementation Method 3
a fastener having a shaft that secures the first and second elastomeric mount portions to each other
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system comprises an elastomeric mount portion including: a barrel having a first bore formed therein and a rim at a first end of the barrel that forms a first interface surface, and a pair of mounting arms that project outward from a second end of the barrel that collectively form an arc that defines a curved mounting surface for mounting a first object. A channel is formed in the pair of mounting arms or the barrel that passes through the elastomeric mount portion. The mounting system further includes a fastener for securing the elastomeric mount portion to a second object. The fastener includes a shaft that passes through the first bore along the longitudinal axis and projects outward from the first interface surface of the barrel. The mounting system further includes a strap that passes through the channel to secure the first object to the curved mounting surface.