Pole Mount Clamp With Latch for Single-Person Device Installation
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping structures for mounting electronic devices, such as small cell access node devices, on pole sections are inefficient and often require multiple personnel for installation due to the need for both hands to align and secure the clamping halves.
Innovation Solution
A clamp assembly with a coupling member and a clamp member featuring a semi-circular shape and a latch mechanism, allowing for single-handed operation and adjustment, which includes a hinge joint and a latch mechanism for secure closure, enabling easy mounting and leveling of electronic devices on pole sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If prior art clamping structures with opposing semi-circular halves are used, then the equipment can be mounted on pole sections, but multiple personnel are required for installation due to the need for both hands to align and secure the clamping halves
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is divided into an upper clamp member and a lower clamp member that can be independently positioned and secured. The upper clamp member can be pre-positioned on the pole, and the lower clamp member is subsequently attached to complete the mounting, allowing single-person installation while maintaining secure fastening
Solution Approach 2:
The upper clamp member is installed and pre-positioned on the pole section before the lower clamp member is attached. This preliminary positioning allows the equipment to be secured in place during the installation process, eliminating the need for a second person to hold the equipment while fastening
2Reliability
If traditional clamping structures requiring both hands for alignment and securing are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but installation time increases and requires multiple personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping structure is segmented into upper and lower clamp members with independent mounting procedures. The upper member is first secured to the pole, then the lower member is attached to complete the mounting, allowing each step to be performed sequentially with one hand operations
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp members incorporate movable and adjustable components that allow for easy positioning and securing. The dynamic design enables single-handed operation during installation while maintaining secure and reliable mounting once installed
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for mounting an electronic device to a support structure includes a coupling member, a clamp member, and a latch mechanism. The coupling member has a device support portion and a clamp support portion. The clamp support portion extends from one end of the device support portion at substantially a right angle. The clamp member includes a base, first and second clamp portions, and a hinge. The base is coupled to the coupling member’s clamp support portion. The first clamp portion is attached to the base. The hinge pivotally couples the first ends of the two clamp portions. The latch mechanism is anchored at a hinge joint at the second end of the first clamp portion, movable about the hinge joint between unlatched and latched positions, and configured to latch the second ends of the clamp portions together after the clamp portions are positioned about the support structure.