Quick-Connect Rail Mount With Rotatable Locking Coupler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rail mounts are limited in performance and reliability, failing to provide secure and versatile connections to tubular structures like handrails and handlebars.
Innovation Solution
A novel quick connect mounting device featuring a female base coupler with an interior annular flange and a rotatable male mounting coupler with ribs and detents, along with a resilient biasing member, allowing for secure and adjustable attachment to tubular structures in various orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional rail mounts are used, then the structure is simple, but the reliability and security of connection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is divided into distinct functional components: a base coupler with interior flange for rail attachment, a separate probe with ribs for insertion, and a mounting flange for device attachment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe with ribs is inserted through the passage in the interior flange, with the ribs engaging with the flange structure. The mounting flange is then attached to the probe, creating a nested arrangement where each component fits within or upon the previous one, providing secure mechanical interlocking.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional rail mounts are used, then the device is simple, but the adaptability to different orientations and positions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed to be rotatable within the passage of the interior flange, allowing dynamic adjustment of the mounting flange orientation. The ribs on the probe can engage with different positions on the interior flange, enabling the mounted device to be positioned at various angles and orientations while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The interior flange with its passage and the probe with ribs create a universal coupling mechanism that can accommodate multiple orientations and positions. This single coupling system provides both radial and axial attachment capabilities, making it versatile for different mounting requirements without requiring multiple specialized fixtures.
3Ease of operation
If conventional rail mounts are used, then the installation is straightforward, but the quick release and repositioning capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The ribs on the probe are pre-configured to engage with the interior flange passage, and the detent mechanism is pre-positioned to automatically lock when the probe is inserted. This preliminary arrangement of components allows for quick insertion and automatic engagement without requiring complex adjustment or tightening operations during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent mechanism automatically engages with the ribs when the probe is inserted into the interior flange, providing self-locking functionality. The spring-loaded detent presses against the ribs, creating automatic retention without requiring external fastening actions, enabling quick release by simply withdrawing the probe.
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 secure, adjustable, and reliable connections to tubular structures, accommodating different diameters and shapes, and allowing for easy orientation changes of attached devices.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently compressible biasing member that is coupled for resiliently biasing the ribs of the probe toward the internal surface of the interior annular flange of the sleeve substantially along the common longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
A novel quick connect mounting device for connecting to rails and other tubular structures, such as handrails on sport craft, sail and motor boats and recreation vehicles, and handlebars in general including but not limited to handlebars on a motorcycle or all terrain vehicle.