Modular Sensor System with Universal Mounting for Tool-Free Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing security systems face complexity in planning and installation due to the variety of camera and sensor types and their mounting components, requiring multiple tools and complicating the installation process.

Innovation Solution

A modular sensor system with universal connection mechanisms allows interchangeable components, including mounting bases, fixtures, and sensor modules, facilitated by a network hub with uniform power and data interfaces, enabling tool-free installation and reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple specialized mounting components are used for different camera and sensor types, then each specific installation requirement can be met, but the system complexity and number of required components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation adaptabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal mounting base with a standardized quick-release interface that can accommodate multiple types of sensors and cameras. The mounting base includes a common attachment mechanism that works with various sensor modules, eliminating the need for specialized mounting components for each device type. This universal approach maintains installation adaptability while significantly reducing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system is divided into modular components: a universal mounting base, interchangeable sensor modules, and a standardized quick-release interface. This segmentation allows each component to be independently selected and combined, providing versatility in configuration while simplifying the overall system architecture through standardized connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple specialized mounting components and tools are used for different sensor types, then each specific installation requirement can be met, but the installation process becomes more difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation adaptabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting base is pre-configured with a standardized quick-release interface and attachment mechanisms before installation. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site customization or complex assembly during installation, allowing installers to simply attach sensor modules using the pre-established universal interface, thereby improving installation ease while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The quick-release mechanism is designed to be tool-free and user-operated, allowing installers to independently attach and detach sensor modules without requiring specialized tools or technical expertise. This self-service capability significantly simplifies the installation process while maintaining the system's adaptability to different sensor types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If traditional mounting methods with multiple components are used, then secure attachment can be achieved, but the installation time and reconfiguration time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, welds) with a magnetic attachment mechanism. The mounting base incorporates magnets that provide secure holding force for sensor modules, enabling reliable attachment while allowing for rapid, tool-free detachment and reattachment. This substitution maintains attachment reliability while dramatically reducing installation and reconfiguration time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250316153A1Modular sensor system and method of installing the same
Publication Date: 2025.10.09 VICON IND INC
  • US20250316153A1 patent drawing
  • US20250316153A1 patent drawing
  • US20250316153A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular sensor system configured for providing a sensor unit that is contextualized for an installation scenario is provided. The modular sensor system comprises one or more sensor modules; one or more mounting bases, wherein each mounting base is configured for being mounted to a mounting location; and one or more fixtures, wherein each of the one or more fixtures includes one or more mounting ports, wherein each of the one or more fixtures are configured for being releasably coupled to any of the one or more mounting bases using a first universal connection mechanism, and wherein each of the one or more mounting ports is configured for being releasably coupled with any of the sensor modules included in the one or more sensor modules using a second universal connection mechanism.