Tool-Free Mounting Device With Spring-Loaded Wedge Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching accessories like strobes, flashlights, and cameras to objects such as helmets, bags, and bicycles are cumbersome and require external tools, lacking the ability for quick and secure attachment/detachment with one hand, and are not cost-effective or user-friendly.
Innovation Solution
A mounting device with an upper and lower portion, equipped with locking mechanisms comprising a releasing pin, spring, and wedge, allowing for tool-free attachment and detachment to various objects, ensuring quick and secure mounting and demounting without the need for external tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed mounting methods are used to securely attach accessories to objects, then attachment security is improved, but attachment time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is divided into separate components: a mounting base that attaches to the object and a mounting head that holds the accessory. The locking mechanism is further segmented into a releasing pin, spring, and wedge component that work independently but coordinate together. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling quick assembly and disassembly without external tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic controllable state. The spring-loaded wedge can dynamically adjust between locked and unlocked positions based on the position of the releasing pin. This dynamic capability enables the user to quickly switch between secure attachment and easy detachment states without requiring external tools or complex operations.
2Strength
If traditional mounting devices are designed to be secure and reliable, then attachment strength is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device concentrates its locking function in a localized area through the wedge and spring mechanism. The wedge component locally applies mechanical force to secure the accessory, while the rest of the mounting base remains simple and uncluttered. This local quality approach provides strong attachment where needed without requiring complex structures throughout the entire device, thereby reducing overall device complexity and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded wedge mechanism is self-actuating through the releasing pin. When the releasing pin is moved, it automatically triggers the spring to drive the wedge into or out of the locked position. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external tools, motors, or complex control systems, achieving reliable locking with minimal device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If mounting mechanisms are designed for quick release, then ease of operation is improved, but attachment security and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism employs asymmetric design where the wedge has a specific orientation and the releasing pin is positioned to actuate the spring in one direction. This asymmetric configuration ensures that accidental disengagement is prevented while allowing intentional quick release. The spring is pre-loaded to maintain constant pressure on the wedge, ensuring secure attachment during normal use, but the asymmetric pin position allows the user to easily override this pressure when needed.
4Ease of manufacture
If external tools are required for mounting accessories, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but productivity and user convenience decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The releasing pin serves as an intermediary tool that is integrated into the mounting device itself. Instead of requiring external tools for attachment and detachment, the releasing pin acts as a built-in mediator that the user can manipulate to control the spring-loaded wedge. This intermediary mechanism enables tool-free operation while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, as the pin, spring, and wedge are straightforward mechanical components that can be produced using conventional manufacturing processes.
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 rapid and secure attachment/detachment of accessories to diverse objects, reducing installation time and manufacturing costs while ensuring safety and ease of use, allowing for single-handed operation.
Implementation Method 1
each locking mechanism is comprised of a releasing pin, at least one spring and a wedge
Data Source
AI summary
An improved mounting device for enabling a user to quickly and securely attach and detach an accessory (e.g., a strobe, flashlight, camera, etc.) to an object. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises an upper portion, a lower portion, and at least one locking mechanism to enable a user to quickly removably attach the improved mounting device to an object. In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device also comprises a side wedge and side wedge spring.