Rotational Coupling Mounting Platform for One-Handed Device Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking mechanisms for securing electronic devices to mounting platforms require separate actions for attachment and locking, which can be cumbersome, especially in environments where the device is difficult to reach or must be operated with one hand.
Innovation Solution
A rotational coupling mechanism that allows a device to be securely locked and unlocked with a single rotational action, using a retainer plate assembly and a grooved-flange mounting platform, enabling the device to toggle between locked and unlocked positions by rotating clockwise or counterclockwise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional double-action locking mechanism is used to secure an electronic device to a mounting platform, then the device can be reliably locked in place, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming, especially in difficult-to-reach locations or when using one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the securing action and locking action into a single integrated rotational operation. The retainer plate with L-shaped arms rotates to simultaneously perform both functions: first securing the device to the platform, then locking it in place. This eliminates the need for separate double-action operations while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional zones on the retainer plate: a first arm for securing the device and a second arm for locking. These segmented components work together in a single rotational motion, allowing the user to perform both actions sequentially without requiring separate operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If separate actions are required for securing and locking the electronic device, then the locking mechanism can provide stable fixation, but the number of user actions increases, reducing flexibility in challenging environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple operations into a single rotational action of the retainer plate. The first arm secures the device while the second arm locks it, both achieved through one continuous motion. This reduces the number of operations from two separate actions to one integrated action.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer plate is designed to rotate dynamically through different positions: an initial position for securing, an intermediate position during transition, and a final locked position. This dynamic rotational movement allows the mechanism to perform multiple functions sequentially within a single operational cycle.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes a mounting platform comprising a retainer plate opening that includes a first opening profile at a top platform surface of the mounting platform and a second opening profile at a bottom platform surface of the mounting platform. the top platform surface first receives a retainer plate when nested within the mounting platform, and the bottom platform surface abuts the retainer plate when the retainer plate is nested within the mounting platform. The first opening profile matches a planform profile of the retainer plate and is etched into the top platform surface through to the bottom platform surface, and the second opening profile is etched from midway between the top platform surface and the bottom platform surface through to the bottom platform surface. The second opening profile corresponding to a rotational offset of the first opening profile by a predetermined angle.