Quick Attach Accessory Mount with Flexible Clamp
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for attaching accessories to consumer objects are time-consuming, require multiple attachment devices, and are difficult to operate with gloved hands, especially in outdoor environments where dexterity is limited, leading to storage space issues and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A quick attach accessory mount featuring a clamp with a flexible upper arm and a stiff lower arm, biased shut with a textured sleeve for improved grip, allowing for secure attachment to various shapes and easy operation with gloved hands, and an adjustable accessory mount with rotating positions for versatile use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current mounting solutions are used, then accessories can be attached to consumer objects, but the process is time-consuming and difficult to operate with gloved hands
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is designed with a self-latching mechanism where the resilient arm automatically engages with the mounting surface upon application, eliminating the need for manual fastening or threading operations. The spring-loaded design provides automatic clamping force that secures the accessory without requiring user intervention once positioned.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates a resilient, flexible arm that can dynamically adapt to different mounting surfaces and shapes. The spring-loaded mechanism allows the clamp to flex during installation and maintain constant contact pressure, enabling quick attachment and detachment while accommodating variations in the base object geometry.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment devices are carried for different accessories and objects, then various mounting requirements can be met, but valuable storage space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp features a universal mounting design with a standardized base structure that can accommodate multiple accessory types through interchangeable mounting interfaces. The resilient arm and adjustable clamping mechanism allow the same device to securely attach to various shapes and sizes of base objects, eliminating the need for multiple specialized mounts.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into modular components: a universal clamp body with standardized engagement features, and interchangeable accessory interfaces. This segmentation allows users to attach different accessories to the same clamp without carrying multiple complete mounting devices, reducing storage requirements while maintaining versatility.
3Reliability
If current mounting solutions are used, then accessories can be attached securely, but the structure may be complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts the essential mounting function from complex fastening mechanisms, using a simple spring-loaded clamp that relies on elastic deformation and friction rather than threads, screws, or multiple fasteners. The resilient arm provides secure attachment through controlled flexibility and automatic spring pressure, eliminating unnecessary structural elements.
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 quick, secure, and versatile attachment of accessories to different objects, reducing the need for multiple mounts and improving usability in various environments and activities, while maintaining stability even under impact or high-speed conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The upper arm may have a framework of a plurality of legs and cross members joined together and configured to flex with respect to each other when placed under a load
Implementation Method 2
A bias member may be attached to each of the upper arm and the lower arm and positioned between the upper arm and the lower arm to bias the upper arm and the lower arm together about the pivot connection between the hinge plates
Implementation Method 3
The lower arm may have an elongate web and a second tab extending at an angle from one end of the elongate web. A second hinge plate may be positioned between the elongate web and the tab
Data Source
AI summary
An accessory mount having a clamp has an upper arm pivotably connected to a lower arm. The upper arm has a framework of a plurality of legs and cross members joined together and configured to flex with respect to each other when placed under a load. A tab extends at an angle from one end of the framework. A hinge plate is positioned between the framework and the tab. The lower arm has an elongate web and a tab extending at an angle from one end of the elongate web. A hinge plate may be positioned between the elongate web and the tab and may be attached to the first hinge plate at a pivot connection. A bias member is attached to and positioned between the upper arm and the lower arm to bias the upper arm and the lower arm together about the pivot connection between the hinge plates. Each of the upper and lower arms is formed as unitary, monocoque construction.