Knuckle Fixture Mounting for Adjustable Locked Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional mounting systems lack adjustability and securement reliability due to mechanical failure, environmental factors, and aesthetic considerations, failing to provide sufficient flexibility and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The development of adjustable mounting systems featuring knuckle bodies with alignment teeth and a locking fastener that allows for rotational adjustment in disassembled positions and fixed alignment in coupled positions, enabling securement of fixtures at various angles and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mounting systems are used, then installation is simple, but adjustability and securement reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate knuckle bodies that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each knuckle body can be rotated relative to the other to achieve different angles and orientations, then locked in place. This segmentation enables multiple adjustment positions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a fixed traditional design to a dynamic adjustable design. The knuckle bodies can be rotated and repositioned during installation and maintenance, allowing the fixture to be adjusted to various angles. The locking mechanism then freezes this dynamic configuration to maintain the desired position.
2Reliability
If traditional securement methods are used, then installation is straightforward, but alignment may fail due to mechanical failure or environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment teeth are pre-configured on the knuckle bodies to guide proper engagement before final locking. This preliminary alignment feature ensures that even if environmental factors or mechanical failures occur later, the components were initially positioned correctly, improving overall reliability of the securement.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-securing once the knuckle bodies are positioned. The teeth engage automatically during rotation, and the locking feature maintains the position without requiring continuous external intervention, thereby improving reliability while keeping the structure relatively simple.
3Ease of operation
If traditional mounting systems are used, then structure is simple, but adjustment for glare or aesthetic preferences is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system allows dynamic adjustment of the fixture to various angles and orientations by rotating the knuckle bodies relative to each other. This enables users to adjust the fixture position to reduce glare or meet aesthetic preferences, transforming a static traditional mounting system into a dynamic adjustable one.
4Adaptability or versatility
If alignment teeth are allowed to move freely, then adjustability is maximized, but rotational movement cannot be prevented in assembled position
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows free rotation and adjustment of the knuckle bodies during the adjustment phase, maximizing adaptability. Once the desired position is achieved, the locking mechanism engages to prevent further rotational movement, thereby stabilizing the configuration. This dynamic-to-static transition resolves the contradiction between adjustability and stability.
Data Source
AI summary
Mounting system, assemblies, and devices are shown and described. In one embodiment, a device to secure a fixture about an off-axis adjustment includes a lower knuckle having a plurality of sunken interior teeth, a distal attachment portion, and a threaded fastener aperture; an upper knuckle having a plurality of raised exterior teeth and a distal attachment portion; and a locking fastener to prevent rotation of the lower knuckle about the upper knuckle. The result is an assembly substantially rotational in a nonengaged position, and fixedly aligned in a coupled position.