Modular Enclosure Mounting Bracket With Tool-Free Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional mounting brackets for fiber optic cable enclosures are bulky, difficult to install, and require significant tools and hardware, making them challenging to access for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A modular mounting bracket with latching mechanisms that translate between access and engaged positions, allowing for secure enclosure attachment without tools or hardware, using a snap-fit or similar manual coupling with protrusions from the enclosure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting brackets are used to secure enclosures, then the enclosure is securely mounted, but the installation process becomes complex requiring significant tools and hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes traditional fasteners, screws, and hardware components from the mounting system. The enclosure is mounted directly to the bracket using an insertion mechanism where the enclosure simply slides into place, extracting all unnecessary hardware and tooling requirements while maintaining secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features that automatically engage the enclosure upon insertion. The system performs its own mounting function without requiring external tools, hardware, or complex installation procedures, making the installation process self-service in nature.
2Reliability
If traditional mounting brackets are used to secure enclosures, then the enclosure is firmly fixed, but maintenance and access become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static, permanently fixed state to a dynamic, reversible state. The enclosure can be easily inserted and removed from the bracket through a simple sliding motion, allowing the system to adapt between secured mounting and easy access states without requiring tools or complex operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system separates the enclosure from the bracket into distinct, independently movable components. The enclosure is designed as a separate module that can be independently inserted and removed, facilitating easy maintenance access while maintaining secure fixation during operation.
3Reliability
If traditional mounting brackets with multiple hardware components are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but the size and bulk of the mounting system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate hardware components (mounting bracket, fasteners, alignment features, and securing mechanisms) into a single integrated mounting bracket structure. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate hardware items and reduces the overall volume of the mounting system while maintaining secure mounting capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural support, alignment, and securing functions without requiring additional specialized hardware. This universal design reduces the overall system size by eliminating redundant components.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular mounting bracket includes a base member having a plurality of support members that receive an enclosure, the plurality of support members each including a plurality of slots. A plurality of latching mechanisms each including a body portion and a latching portion are positioned within the plurality of slots of the plurality of support members. The plurality of latching mechanisms are translatable between an access position and an engaged position, and the plurality of latching mechanisms engage the enclosure and secure the enclosure to the modular mounting bracket in the engaged position.