Multi-Tool Stand with Spring-Leg Stability for Digital Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-tools lack a stable and versatile mechanism for securely mounting and positioning digital devices such as cameras, phones, and PDAs for optimal use, often requiring additional accessories or complex setups.

Innovation Solution

A multi-tool design incorporating a prop and mount system that includes spring-loaded legs, telescoping legs, and multi-angular mounts, allowing for a stable three-legged stand and adjustable positioning to securely hold digital devices, with options for various connection types like threaded, snap, or magnetic attachments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing multi-tools are used without additional mounting accessories, then the device structure remains simple, but the ability to securely mount and position digital devices is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice mounting capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the mounting mechanism directly into the multi-tool handle structure. The handle serves dual purposes: as a gripping tool and as a mounting base for digital devices. The spring-loaded leg mechanism and articulation joint are integrated within the handle housing, eliminating the need for separate mounting accessories while providing secure device attachment capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The multi-tool handle is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate various digital devices (cameras, phones, PDAs). The articulation joint allows the mount to assume multiple angular positions, and the spring-loaded legs provide adaptable support for different device sizes and weights, making the single tool suitable for diverse mounting applications.

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

2Stability of the object's composition

If a stable three-legged stand mechanism is added to the multi-tool, then the anti-overturning stability improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanti-overturning stabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded legs are nested within the handle structure when retracted, and deploy outward when activated. The legs contain telescoping sections that nest within each other, allowing compact storage while providing extended support when needed. This nesting arrangement provides stable three-legged support without significantly increasing the overall device volume or structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-loaded mechanism automatically extends the legs to provide stable support when the multi-tool is placed on a surface. The spring force self-regulates to maintain the legs in a load-bearing position, providing anti-overturning stability without requiring active user intervention or complex control systems. The mechanism serves itself by using the weight of the device to compress the springs, which then maintain the legs in the extended stable position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If adjustable positioning mechanisms are incorporated into the mount, then the usability for optimal device positioning improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice positioning easeVSAvoidmount mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mount incorporates an articulation joint that allows dynamic adjustment of the mounting surface angle. The joint enables smooth rotation and positioning of the device holder to various angular orientations. This dynamic capability allows users to easily adjust the device to optimal viewing or shooting angles while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical joint structure without complex motors or electronic controls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Provides a stable and versatile solution for mounting digital devices, resisting overturning and allowing for adjustable positioning, enhancing usability in various environments and applications.

Implementation Method 1

spring-loaded legs

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

magnetic attachments

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8726439B2Multi tool stand for digital device method and apparatus
Publication Date: 2014.05.20 GEYSER VENTURES LLC
  • US8726439B2 patent drawing
  • US8726439B2 patent drawing
  • US8726439B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi tool with a handle arranged along a longitudinally aligned axis. The handle has a first end and a second end and a housing for containing a first tool. The multi tool also has a prop which interoperates with the first handle and provides stability against overturning of the multi tool when supporting a device. The multi tool also has a mount which is interoperable with either the handle or the prop. The mount will maintain a device in an upright position.