Mobile Device Mounting Frame with Segmented Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, cannot be easily mounted to standard tripods or support stands due to their size and configuration, making it difficult to capture steady images or videos and utilize additional camera accessories.
Innovation Solution
A frame with a rigid peripheral member and a complementary insert that can be used to mount mobile devices to a tripod, featuring a mount for coupling to the tripod and a membrane-like cavity to support the device, with camera holes for image capture, and accessory holes for additional equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mobile device is used without a mounting apparatus, then the device is portable and easy to carry, but the device cannot be mounted to a tripod for steady image capture
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting apparatus is divided into separate components: a frame structure and a removable insert. The frame provides the mounting interface for the tripod, while the insert provides the device holder with camera access. This segmentation allows the system to be adapted to different devices and situations while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting apparatus acts as an intermediary between the mobile device and the tripod. It provides the necessary interface and adaptation layer that enables the small mobile device to be securely mounted on a standard tripod mounting system.
2Reliability
If a rigid mounting structure is used to secure the mobile device, then image stability is improved, but the device may be vulnerable to damage from drops or impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is made of a resilient or flexible material that provides cushioning for the mobile device. This cushioning layer absorbs impact forces during drops or impacts while maintaining the rigid structural support needed for stable image capture when mounted.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting apparatus combines rigid structural components (frame) with resilient or flexible materials (insert). This composite construction provides both the structural support for stability and the protective cushioning for the device.
3Reliability
If the camera lens is fully covered by the mounting structure, then the device is securely held, but the camera lens cannot capture images
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is designed with a specific local quality: it has an opening or aperture that allows the camera lens to pass through. This localized modification provides camera access exactly where needed while maintaining secure holding of the device in all other areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert provides partial coverage of the device - it secures the device body while leaving the camera lens area open. This partial action approach allows the device to be held securely while maintaining full camera functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for mounting a mobile device on a tripod includes a frame with a rigid peripheral member defining an opening therethrough. The peripheral member includes a mount configured to releasably couple the frame to the tripod. An insert is sized and shaped to be placed into the opening of the frame and releasably engage at least a portion of the peripheral member in an assembled configuration. The insert has a membrane in the form of a cavity configured to releasably receive and support the mobile device. The membrane extends over at least a portion of the opening of the frame in the assembled configuration and includes at least one camera hole extending therethrough that is aligned with a camera lens of the mobile device when the mobile device is mounted in the cavity.