Multi-Pivot Helmet Mount for Fast Optical Device Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing helmet mounts for optical devices lack adjustability and ease of use, particularly for military and law enforcement personnel, who require optimal positioning, durability, and shock resistance in low-light environments.
Innovation Solution
A helmet mount assembly with multiple degrees of freedom, including a device mount, helmet mount, and pivot structure, allowing for adjustable positioning of optical devices on helmets, with mechanisms for linear translation and rotational adjustment, and a release lever for secure attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a helmet mount is designed to be fixed and simple, then it is easy to manufacture and operate, but it lacks adjustability for optimal positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The mount is divided into separate functional modules: a quick-release mechanism for attachment/detachment, a pivot joint for angular adjustment, and a positioning system for lateral movement. Each module independently provides a specific degree of freedom, allowing complex adjustability while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The mount transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic adjustable system with multiple degrees of freedom. The pivot joint enables rotational movement for angular adjustment, while the positioning mechanism allows lateral translation. These dynamic elements provide adaptability without significantly increasing overall structural complexity through efficient mechanical design
2Adaptability or versatility
If a helmet mount provides multiple adjustment mechanisms, then optimal positioning is achieved, but setup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mount features pre-configured adjustment mechanisms with preset positions and orientations. The quick-release mechanism is pre-loaded with spring tension and the pivot joint is pre-positioned at neutral angles, allowing users to rapidly deploy the device to a functional position without extensive manual configuration or assembly steps
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adjustment mechanisms allow continuous movement through multiple degrees of freedom (lateral translation, angular rotation, elevation adjustment). This enables the device to be quickly positioned at optimal viewing angles for different users and applications, providing positioning flexibility while maintaining rapid setup through smooth, unrestricted motion along each degree of freedom
3Weight of moving object
If a helmet mount is designed to be lightweight, then it is easier to operate, but it may compromise durability and shock resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The mount employs composite construction combining lightweight aluminum alloy for the main body structure with high-strength steel for critical load-bearing components such as the quick-release mechanism and pivot joint axles. This composite approach achieves weight reduction through lightweight materials while maintaining durability and shock resistance through strategic use of high-strength materials in stress-critical areas
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-release mechanism incorporates a spring-loaded counterbalance system that compensates for the weight of the mounted device. The spring tension provides automatic holding force to counteract gravity, reducing the operational effort required by the user while maintaining secure attachment. This counterbalancing mechanism allows lightweight construction without compromising the mechanical strength needed for shock resistance
Data Source
AI summary
Versatile helmet mount assemblies and subassemblies are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a helmet mount assembly includes a device mount, a helmet mount and a pivot structure. The device mount is configured to removably attach to a plurality of optical devices. The helmet mount is configured to removably attach to a plurality of helmets. The pivot structure includes a first pivot adjustment mechanism and a second pivot adjustment mechanism. The first pivot adjustment mechanism enables the device mount part to pivot a first rotational distance with respect to the helmet mount part between a deployed position and a stowed position. The second pivot adjustment mechanism second pivot adjustment mechanism enables the device mount part to pivot a second rotational distance with respect to the helmet mount part from the operative position.