Quick-Release Mounting System for Panel Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for mounting panel instruments, such as video monitors, on vehicle passenger seats require removing upholstery to access screws, making installation and removal time-consuming and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A quick-attach, quick-release mounting system with a locking mechanism that allows access from the front of the panel instrument, using a cam shaft and biasing spring to securely lock and unlock the instrument, enabling easy installation and removal without the need to access screws from underneath the upholstery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional screw mounting methods are used, then the panel instrument is securely mounted to the mounting surface, but the upholstery must be removed to access the screws, making installation and removal time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional mounting approach by making the locking mechanism accessible from the front of the panel instrument rather than requiring access from the back through upholstery removal. The cam shaft with tool hole positioned on the front face allows operators to perform mounting and demounting operations without removing upholstery, directly resolving the accessibility and time-consuming issues of traditional methods
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into distinct functional components: a cam shaft mechanism for locking/unlocking, a retaining stud for structural attachment, and a tool hole for actuation. This segmentation allows the locking function to be independently accessed and operated from the front, separating the mounting operation from upholstery removal and enabling quick installation and removal
2Productivity
If a quick-release mechanism is implemented with front access, then installation and removal become rapid and convenient, but the locking mechanism must be designed to prevent theft and unauthorized tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized tool as an intermediary between the operator and the cam shaft locking mechanism. The tool hole requires a corresponding tool to actuate the cam shaft, creating a controlled interface that enables rapid legitimate operation while preventing unauthorized tampering. This intermediary mechanism simultaneously achieves quick-release functionality and anti-theft security
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism features localized security characteristics through the tool hole design, which provides different operational qualities for different users. Authorized personnel with the correct tool experience rapid, easy operation, while unauthorized individuals cannot access or manipulate the locking mechanism at all. This local quality differentiation resolves the contradiction between speed and security
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
The system allows for rapid and secure mounting and demounting of panel instruments, preventing theft and tampering, while eliminating the need to remove upholstery, thus saving time and effort.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting mechanism has a cam shaft having a cam fixed in rotation with the cam shaft. The cam is operably coupled to the locking member such that rotation of the cam shaft in a first rotational direction causes the cam to move the locking member to the unlocked position
Implementation Method 2
For example, a biasing spring may be provided which biases the locking member toward the locked position
Data Source
AI summary
A quick-release mounting system for mounting a panel instrument, such as a video monitor, to a mounting surface or support, such as a seatback or other structure. The mounting system comprises one or more mounting mechanisms configured to be mounted to the mounting surface or support. Each mounting mechanism has a locking member coupled to a first main body. The locking member is movable between a locked position in which the locking bolt engages a retaining stud mounted to the back surface of the panel instrument thereby locking the mounting mechanism to the first retaining stud and an unlocked position in which the locking member is disengaged from the first retaining stud. The mounting mechanism also has a cam shaft having a cam fixed in rotation with the cam shaft. The cam is operably coupled to the locking member such that rotation of the cam shaft moves the locking member between the locked and unlocked positions.