Modular Camera Mount With Hinged Head for Loading Docks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing video surveillance systems in loading docks require frequent servicing and repositioning, are vulnerable to weather effects, and fail to document individual loading docks due to high mounting heights and exposure to forklifts and swinging doors.

Innovation Solution

A modular mount system that allows video cameras and other equipment to be mounted on walls or ceilings, featuring a hinge mechanism for rotation and weatherproofing, enabling easy access and protection from impact, with adjustable positioning to avoid obstacles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If video cameras are mounted high on the roof (15-20 feet) to avoid interference with forklifts, then the cameras can operate without physical obstruction, but technicians must climb ladders or scissor lifts for servicing and the cameras cannot document individual loading docks

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveEase of servicing cameraVSAvoidAbility to document individual loading docks

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is divided into multiple adjustable segments (arm sections) that can be independently positioned. This allows the camera to be mounted at a lower, accessible height while maintaining proper viewing angles through the articulated arm structure, eliminating the need for high ladders or lifts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting arm incorporates adjustable and movable sections that allow dynamic repositioning of the camera. This enables the camera to be positioned at optimal heights for both servicing accessibility and loading dock documentation, adapting to different operational requirements without fixed high mounting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of manufacture

If video cameras are mounted outside or in exposed areas on electrical boxes, then the cameras can be installed with existing electrical infrastructure, but the connections between electrical equipment and mounts are vulnerable to weather effects

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveEase of installation with existing infrastructureVSAvoidWeather resistance of electrical connections

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system incorporates weatherproof housings and protective enclosures that shield electrical connections from environmental exposure. These protective elements allow outdoor installation while maintaining connection integrity, combining ease of installation with weather resistance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Measurement precision

If the camera is positioned close to swinging container doors, then the camera can capture loading dock activities, but the camera is vulnerable to impact from doors and equipment

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAbility to capture loading dock activitiesVSAvoidImpact vulnerability from forklifts and doors

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting arm is designed with impact-absorbing features and protective elements that preemptively mitigate damage from potential impacts. The structure includes shock-absorbing mechanisms and protective shielding that reduce the harmful effects of door and forklift impacts before they reach the camera.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

4Device complexity

If the camera is mounted on a fixed high position, then the camera structure is simple, but the camera cannot be repositioned for different loading dock configurations

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveSimplicity of mounting structureVSAvoidAbility to reposition for different configurations

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is segmented into multiple adjustable sections that can be independently positioned. This segmentation provides repositioning flexibility for different loading dock configurations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that builds on conventional mounting concepts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables uninterrupted footage capture, reduces servicing needs, and protects equipment from weather and impacts, while allowing flexible positioning to avoid forklifts and swinging doors.

Implementation Method 1

the modular mount includes a hinge that enables a head to hinge or rotate away from its standard position when it is pushed or knocked against

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHinge mechanism: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS20250298293A1Modular Mount For Video, Audio and Lighting Equipment

Publication Date: 2025.09.25 FRANCO ANTHONY JAMES

AI summary

A modular mount for mounting a video cameras and other equipment to a wall, including (1) a base assembly, including a wall bracket used to attach the modular mount to a wall, and a primary tube, attached to the wall bracket, and (2) and a head assembly, including a secondary tube that fastens to the primary tube, and a head, attached to the secondary tube, including a pan attached to the secondary tube, enabling a video camera and any other equipment to mount to the underside of the pan. and a lid that covers the pan.