Hydraulic Utility Mount With Storable Brackets for Secure Tool-Free Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility mounts for outdoor equipment lack adjustable and lockable solutions that securely attach devices to various stable structures without requiring tools, and existing mounting brackets do not efficiently transition between stored and deployed positions for convenient packing and use.
Innovation Solution
A selectively adjustable and lockable utility mount with a hydraulic lock mechanism and storable, pivotable mount elements with pointed engagement ends that can grip surfaces, allowing for secure attachment to structures and easy storage, along with configurations that include a climbing stick and strap systems for versatile mounting options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mount elements are made pointed for gripping surfaces, then the mounting security is improved, but the device complexity increases due to storage and deployment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The mount elements are designed to be movable between deployed and stored positions. When deployed, the pointed ends engage the mounting surface for secure attachment. When stored, the elements retract to minimize profile and protect the pointed ends. This dynamic configuration allows the bracket to adapt its shape based on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The mount elements are configured to nest within or alongside the bracket body when in the stored position. The pointed engagement ends are retracted into protective recesses or alongside other components, effectively nesting the functional elements within the overall structure to reduce complexity and protect sharp edges.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the utility mount is made adjustable and lockable, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic lock mechanism is designed to maintain the utility mount in a locked position automatically once adjusted. The system uses hydraulic pressure to engage locking components that hold the mount at various positions without requiring continuous external input or complex multi-stage locking procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
A hydraulic lock mechanism is employed to provide smooth, controlled adjustment and reliable locking. The hydraulic system allows for easy positioning of the utility mount by controlling fluid pressure, and once positioned, the hydraulic lock maintains the setting without requiring additional mechanical complexity.
3Ease of operation
If mount elements are made storable to reduce size, then the ease of operation is improved for packing, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mount elements are designed with pivot joints that allow smooth transition between stored and deployed positions. The dynamic design accommodates reasonable manufacturing tolerances by allowing minor variations in pivot alignment and engagement geometry without compromising functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is divided into separate components including the main body, movable mount elements, and locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with standard tolerances, then assembled together, reducing the need for high-precision monolithic manufacturing.
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
The solution provides a secure, adjustable, and compact mounting system that can be easily deployed and stored, enabling secure attachment of devices like cameras and shooting rests to various structures without tools, enhancing usability and convenience in outdoor settings.
Implementation Method 1
The utility mount includes a hydraulic lock that applies the locking force that maintains the locked condition of the utility mount
Implementation Method 2
The mounting brackets include spaced-apart, pointed feet that can grip, engage, or dig into a stable support surface to help secure the mount at a location
Data Source
AI summary
A selectively adjustable and lockable utility mount is used to mount a device to a stable structure. The utility mount includes a hydraulic lock that applies the locking force that maintains the locked condition of the utility mount. Mounting brackets for utility mounts have spaced-apart mount elements that engage a surface of a stable structure. Some configurations of mounting bracket include mount elements that are movable between stored conditions and deployed conditions. The stored conditions reduce the size of the device to make it more convenient to pack. A climbing stick uses the storable mount elements.