SCBA Mounting Bracket Assembly With Automatic Locking Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SCBA holders in vehicles require manual intervention for securing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) during scenarios like collisions or abrupt maneuvers, and lack adjustability for different sizes and mounting locations.
Innovation Solution
An automatic locking mounting bracket assembly with a clamping arrangement, guide, and support structure that automatically secures and releases SCBAs using a spring-loaded mechanism, allowing vertical adjustment and release from various positions within the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual intervention is used to secure SCBA in holders, then the SCBA can be restrained during collisions or abrupt maneuvers, but the securing process is time-consuming and requires user action
Solution Approach 1:
The SCBA holder incorporates an automatic locking mechanism that self-activates when the SCBA is placed in the holder. The spring-loaded latch automatically engages with the SCBA tank, securing it without requiring manual intervention. This self-service mechanism maintains reliable restraint while eliminating the time loss associated with manual securing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is pre-configured with a spring-loaded latch mechanism that is ready to engage before the SCBA is inserted. The latch is positioned and biased in advance so that upon insertion of the SCBA, the locking action occurs automatically without requiring the user to perform additional securing actions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-position SCBA holders are used, then the structure is simple, but the holders cannot accommodate different sizes and types of SCBAs
Solution Approach 1:
The holder incorporates adjustable components including a vertically movable latch mechanism and an adjustable strap system. These dynamic elements allow the holder to adapt its configuration to accommodate SCBAs of different sizes and types, transitioning from a fixed structure to a flexible, adaptable system that maintains security while embracing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is divided into independent adjustable components: a vertically movable latch assembly, an adjustable strap system with multiple attachment points, and a modular mounting structure. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted to fit different SCBA configurations, providing versatility without requiring complete redesign of the entire holder system.
3Ease of operation
If SCBA holders are integrated into seat back openings, then rapid donning is enabled, but the SCBA may become loose during vehicle maneuvers without proper restraint
Solution Approach 1:
The holder integrates multiple restraint mechanisms into a single unified system: an automatic spring-loaded latch that secures the SCBA tank, an adjustable strap system that restrains the SCBA body, and a mounting structure integrated into the seat back. This merging of multiple restraint functions into one system enables rapid donning while ensuring reliable retention during vehicle maneuvers.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic latch mechanism self-activates upon insertion of the SCBA, providing immediate restraint without requiring user action. This self-service locking ensures the SCBA is securely restrained during maneuvers as soon as it is placed in the holder, maintaining both ease of operation and reliability.
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 fast, convenient, and secure mounting and release of SCBAs without manual intervention, accommodating different sizes and types, and ensuring secure retention during vehicle movements.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded mechanism, allowing vertical adjustment and release from various positions within the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting bracket assembly includes a clamping arrangement mounted for vertical movement on a mounting structure and is movable between an engaged position and disengaged position relative to a self-contained breathing apparatus held in the mounting bracket assembly. A camming arrangement is located between the clamping arrangement and the mounting structure for permitting and preventing vertical movement of the clamping arrangement relative to the mounting structure. A powered latching mechanism is engageable with a portion of the clamping arrangement for providing unlatched and latched positions. A control arrangement separate from the powered latching mechanism is operatively connected thereto to selectively control the powered latching mechanism and effect release of the self-contained breathing apparatus from the latched position when the vehicle is in a stationary and parked condition.