Tent Frame Clamp Mount for Fast Accessory Repositioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

The assembly and repositioning of accessories on large tents are time-consuming and aesthetically unsatisfactory, often compromising structural stability due to the use of cables, wire tires, or bungee cords for attachment.

Innovation Solution

A tool-less mounting apparatus with pivotally connected jaws and an object mounting union, designed to engage structural members of tents, allowing for easy installation and reorientation of accessories without compromising structural integrity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If cables, wire tires, or bungee cords are used to attach accessories to structural members, then accessories can be mounted to the tent frame, but the attachment is aesthetically unsatisfactory and may compromise structural stability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to mount accessoriesVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting apparatus is divided into separate components: a mounting member that attaches to the structural member, and an accessory that attaches to the mounting member. This segmentation allows the structural member to remain intact while providing attachment capability through the separate mounting apparatus.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting apparatus serves as an intermediary device between the structural member and the accessory. It provides a dedicated attachment interface that does not compromise the structural member's integrity, unlike cables or wire tires that wrap around and potentially damage the structural member.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If cables, wire tires, or bungee cords are used to attach accessories, then accessories can be mounted to the tent frame, but the attachment is aesthetically unsatisfactory

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to mount accessoriesVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the mounting function from the structural member, the apparatus provides a clean, dedicated attachment point that does not require unsightly wrapping devices. The mounting member integrates the attachment mechanism into a unified component that maintains the visual integrity of the tent frame.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional attachment devices are used, then accessories can be mounted to structural members, but ease of assembly and adjustment of location is limited and difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to mount accessoriesVSAvoidease of assembly and repositioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting apparatus incorporates movable or adjustable components that allow for easy repositioning and reconfiguration. This dynamic design enables users to adjust the location and orientation of mounted accessories without requiring complex tools or procedures, unlike traditional fixed attachment methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If structural members are used as continuous beams, cables, wire tires, or bungee cords for attachment, then accessories can be attached, but the process is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to attach accessoriesVSAvoidassembly speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting member is pre-configured with attachment features that enable quick connection to structural members. This preliminary preparation of the mounting apparatus allows for rapid deployment and attachment of accessories, eliminating the time-consuming process of wrapping and securing cables or wire tires during installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7926771B2Mounting apparatus for mounting objects to support structures of a tent
Publication Date: 2011.04.19 RAPID DEPLOYABLE SYST LLC
  • US7926771B2 patent drawing
  • US7926771B2 patent drawing
  • US7926771B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus for mounting objects to structural members of a tent is provided. The mounting apparatus comprises a pair of jaws, a jaw adjustment arrangement and an object mounting union. The pair of jaws are operably pivotally connected to one another. Each jaw includes an engaging portion for engaging the structural member of a tent frame. The engaging portions are in opposed relation to one another and define a mouth therebetween. The jaw adjustment arrangement operably adjustably limits a maximum width of the mouth. The object mounting union is used to secure an object to the pair of jaws.