Globe Clamp Level Mounting Recess for Airfield Lighting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Elevated lighting fixtures for airfield applications require frequent adjustment and leveling, which is inefficient due to the need for separate level attachments, increasing time, cost, and error margins.
Innovation Solution
A globe clamp with integrated level mounting pads that temporarily holds a commercial level, eliminating the need for additional attachment mechanisms and providing immediate feedback during leveling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate level holder or ring is used to attach a bubble level to the lighting device, then the lighting device can be leveled, but the operator must attach and remove the separate device each time, increasing time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the level holder functionality directly into the globe clamp assembly by incorporating a level receiving recess into the clamp body. This merging of the level holder with the clamp eliminates the need for separate attachment devices, allowing the operator to simply place the bubble level into the integrated recess without any attachment or removal steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The globe clamp assembly provides its own level holding capability through the integrated recess, making the system self-sufficient for leveling operations. The clamp structure itself serves the dual function of securing the lighting device and providing a platform for the bubble level, eliminating dependency on external level holders.
2Ease of operation
If a separate level holder or ring is used to attach a bubble level to the lighting device, then the lighting device can be leveled, but additional devices and cost are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the level holder functionality into the globe clamp assembly itself through an integrated recess. This eliminates the need for separate level holders, rings, or other attachment devices, reducing the total number of components from multiple separate devices to a single integrated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The globe clamp assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: securing the lighting device to the support structure and providing an integrated platform for the bubble level. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized separate devices, as the clamp itself serves as the level mounting platform.
3Measurement precision
If a separate level holder or ring is used to attach a bubble level to the lighting device, then the lighting device can be leveled, but error margin increases due to attachment of the separate device
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the level recess directly into the globe clamp assembly that is already attached to the lighting device, the patent eliminates the additional attachment interface that would introduce error. The bubble level is placed directly on the clamp body rather than on a separately attached holder, reducing the number of potential error sources in the measurement system.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a globe clamp with integrated mounting pads which can hold a level while a user adjusts the lighting device to which the globe clamp is coupled. In one example embodiment, the globe clamp includes a clamp body, which includes a top portion, a bottom portion, and an exterior contour. The top portion forms a first internal opening defined by a first inner surface. The bottom portion forms a second internal opening defined by a second inner surface. The exterior contour surrounds the top portion and the bottom portion. The exterior contour comprises at least one recess having a horizontal, flat surface, the recess configured to retain a level.