Helmet Mount for Viewing Device with Dual Pivot Axis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical device mounting systems for headgear, such as helmets, do not efficiently allow for the stowage of optical devices like night vision goggles out of the user's line of sight when not in use, leading to neck strain and inefficient storage.

Innovation Solution

A dual pivot axis mount system that allows the optical device to be flipped to various stowed positions using a tri-fold pivot arm assembly with breakaway and adjustable mechanisms, enabling easy attachment and detachment, and providing multiple stowage options to reduce neck strain and optimize storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the optical device is mounted in front of the user's line of sight, then the device is easily accessible and can be quickly deployed, but the device cannot be stowed out of the way when not in use, causing neck strain and inefficient storage

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQuick deployment and accessibility of optical deviceVSAvoidNeck strain and inefficient storage when device is not in use
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system employs a dynamic pivot mechanism that allows the optical device to be rotated between a deployed position (in front of the user's line of sight for easy access) and a stowed position (out of the way when not in use). This dynamic positioning capability eliminates neck strain and improves storage efficiency while maintaining quick deployment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a rotational dimension to the mounting system, enabling the optical device to move not only forward and backward but also to rotate around a pivot axis. This additional degree of freedom allows the device to be positioned in multiple orientations, including stowed positions that eliminate neck strain and optimize storage space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Stability of the object's composition

If a fixed mounting system is used, then the optical device remains stable and secure, but the device cannot be adjusted to different positions or stowed when not needed

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSecure and stable mounting of optical deviceVSAvoidAbility to adjust device position and stow when not in use
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic one with a pivot mechanism. The device can be securely mounted in any position along the arc of rotation, maintaining stability while gaining the versatility to adjust between deployed and stowed positions according to operational needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The pivot-based mounting system serves multiple functions: it provides secure mounting when the device is in use, enables stowage when the device is not needed, and allows for quick deployment. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between stability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of time

If the optical device is kept in the user's line of sight, then the device is readily accessible for immediate use, but it occupies space and causes obstruction when the device is not in use

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveTime to deploy and access optical deviceVSAvoidSpace occupied and obstruction when device is stowed
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamic pivot mechanism allows the optical device to be quickly rotated into the user's line of sight when needed and out of the way when not needed. This maintains minimal deployment time while reducing the space occupied and obstruction when the device is stowed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

By introducing rotational movement, the system allows the device to be positioned in three-dimensional space rather than being constrained to a single fixed position. This enables the device to occupy minimal space when stowed while remaining rapidly accessible when deployed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS9781963B1Helmet mount for viewing device
Publication Date: 2017.10.10 WILCOX IND CORP CORP
  • US9781963B1 patent drawing
  • US9781963B1 patent drawing
  • US9781963B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Improved helmet mounting devices for an optical device are provided. The mounting devices herein include dual pivot axes providing multiple flip options for pivoting the viewing device and/or mount up and away from the user's line of sight. The dual pivot axes and multiple flip positions also allow the unit to be adapted for a variety of viewing devices.