Spring-Loaded Mounting Fitting for Tool-Free Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting systems require multiple fasteners and tools for securement and reconfiguration, which is time-consuming and not easily adaptable during flight or dynamic operations.
Innovation Solution
A quick-release mounting fitting with a rotatable knob and spring mechanism that allows easy locking and unlocking by twisting, eliminating the need for separate fasteners and tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners (screws, bolts) are used to secure the fitting to the track, then the mounting is secure and reliable, but the process requires multiple parts, tools, and time for fastening and unfastening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate fasteners into a single integrated locking mechanism. The fitting body incorporates a locking mechanism with a protrusion that engages with the track, eliminating the need for separate screws, bolts, and washers. This consolidation maintains secure mounting while reducing the number of parts and simplifying the fastening process.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides secure engagement with the track, allows for quick release, and enables repositioning. The same mechanism that secures the fitting firmly in place also facilitates easy removal and reattachment, making the system versatile for both secure mounting and rapid reconfiguration needs.
2Reliability
If traditional fasteners are used, then the mounting is secure, but the process requires time and labour for fastening and unfastening
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional elements: a protrusion for engagement, a spring for maintaining contact force, and a knob for actuation. This segmentation allows the complex locking function to be achieved through simple, sequential movements - pushing the knob to engage or disengage the protrusion from the track, enabling rapid fastening and unfastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically maintains contact between the protrusion and the track, providing continuous securing force without requiring additional fasteners or adjustment. The mechanism self-regulates the engagement force, eliminating the need for manual tightening or tool-assisted fastening, thereby reducing time and labor requirements.
3Reliability
If traditional fastening systems are used, then the mounting is secure, but the system cannot be easily locked or unlocked during flight
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static, tool-required fastening system to a dynamic, manually-operable system. The spring-loaded protrusion can be quickly engaged or disengaged by simple manual manipulation of the knob, allowing the fitting to be securely locked or unlocked during flight operations without requiring tools or complex procedures.
4Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used, then the mounting is secure, but the system requires additional fastener parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate fasteners into a single integrated locking mechanism. The fitting body incorporates a locking mechanism with a protrusion that engages with the track, eliminating the need for separate screws, bolts, and washers. This consolidation maintains secure mounting while reducing the number of parts and simplifying the fastening process.
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 rapid repositioning of objects without tools, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a spring mechanism mounted within a spring mechanism housing mounted within the knob, wherein the spring mechanism is biased to engage the knob to the spring mechanism housing
Implementation Method 2
the spring mechanism is biased to engage the knob to the spring mechanism housing
Implementation Method 3
application of a twisting force to the knob rotates the knob against the force of the spring mechanism
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
A mounting fitting for mounting an object to a surface and releasably locking the object in one or more positions relative to the surface, the mounting fitting comprising an elongate fitting body (10) comprising a first portion (11) configured to be attached to the object, in use, and a second portion (12) having a locking mechanism (30) configured to releasably lock the fitting relative to the surface, in use, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a rotatable knob (13) having an elongate protrusion (132) extending therefrom and a spring mechanism (24, 25) mounted within a spring mechanism housing (20) mounted within the knob (13), wherein the spring mechanism is biased to engage the knob (13) to the spring mechanism housing (20), and wherein application of a twisting force to the knob rotates the knob against the force of the spring mechanism relative to the spring mechanism housing to change the orientation of the protrusion (132) relative to the fitting body (10).