Multi-Leg Support Hub With Preset Leg-Angle Stops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing equipment stands, such as bipods and tripods, lack versatility in adjusting leg positions to accommodate different operational requirements, limiting their adaptability for supporting various types of equipment like weapons, optics, and cameras.
Innovation Solution
A multi-legged equipment support system featuring a hub and pivotable legs with adjustable angle stop structures and actuators, allowing legs to pivot to multiple preset positions, enabling flexible deployment and secure positioning of equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If legs are made fixed in position, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different operational requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the leg positions adjustable rather than fixed. Each leg can be pivoted to different angles and locked into place using spring-loaded lugs that engage with slots in the hub. This allows the stand to adapt to different operational requirements (supporting weapons, optics, cameras) while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure without complex actuators or motors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple leg angle positions are provided, then versatility is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing each leg into movable sections with pivot points, allowing independent angle adjustment. The hub contains multiple slots at different angles, and each leg has spring-loaded lugs that can engage with any slot. This segmented approach provides multiple preset positions (at least three different angles) while keeping the overall structure modular and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded lugs automatically engage with the slots to lock legs in position without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex control systems. The spring force provides both the locking action and the ability to release when force is applied, making the system self-servicing and reducing overall structural complexity despite providing multiple angle options.
3Ease of operation
If leg pivot mechanism is added, then operational flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses spring-loaded lugs as intermediary elements between the leg pivot mechanism and the hub slots. These lugs serve as the mediating component that translates simple manual manipulation into secure angular positioning. The spring mechanism provides the necessary force to both lock the leg in position and allow easy release when needed, simplifying the overall operation while providing flexible adjustment capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-legged equipment support, components thereof, and associated methods. The equipment support comprises a stand and an equipment holder. The stand includes a hub and multiple legs pivotable with respect to the hub. The legs are pivotable outward from stowed positions to preset operational pivoted positions. The user can select a preset operational pivoted position in which outward pivoting of a leg will stop based on moving an actuator between preset locations.