Traffic Camera Mounting Assembly for Tall Wind-Stable Pole Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mounting brackets for traffic cameras and other devices are limited to a maximum height of six feet due to moment capacity limitations, and they tend to rotate on mast arms under high wind loads, failing to support devices at optimal heights of 10-15 feet above the support.
Innovation Solution
A mounting assembly that includes an adapter to secure the camera bracket to a larger diameter pole, a first clamp attachable to a mast arm with flexible bands or cables for stability, and a second clamp with adjustable saddles to secure the pole, allowing 180-degree rotation and versatile mounting on both vertical and horizontal supports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional mounting brackets are used, then the bracket can be mounted to standard mast arms, but the maximum mounting height is limited to six feet due to moment capacity limitations and rotation under wind loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional mounting (direct attachment to mast arm) to three-dimensional mounting by introducing a vertical pole dimension. The camera is mounted on a pole that extends vertically from the mast arm, allowing the camera to be positioned 10-15 feet above the mast arm while the bracket itself remains attached to the mast arm at its original height. This dimensional change bypasses the moment capacity limitations of the bracket.
2Length of stationary object
If the mounting height is increased above six feet, then the camera can be positioned at optimal height, but the bracket tends to rotate on the mast arm under high wind loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mounting system into distinct functional components: the bracket (attached to mast arm), the pole (vertical support), and the camera mount (at top of pole). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the bracket handles the connection to the mast arm, while the pole provides the vertical height and wind load resistance, separating the functions and improving overall stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed mounting bracket is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot be used alternately on horizontal and vertical supports
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the bracket with universal mounting capabilities that allow it to be attached to both horizontal mast arms and vertical poles. The bracket incorporates adjustable features and multiple mounting configurations, enabling it to serve multiple functions in different orientations. This universality allows the same bracket design to be used throughout the entire mounting assembly regardless of whether it's attached to a horizontal or vertical surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting assembly for supporting a traffic camera or other traffic control device high above traffic. The assembly includes a conventional camera bracket, a vertical pole of at least two inches in diameter, an adapter for attaching the camera bracket to the top of the pole, and a mounting bracket for attaching the pole to the mast arm or other support. The bracket includes an adapter plate by which the pole can be rotated relative to the support so the camera can be mounted on either a vertical or a horizontal support structure. The bracket also includes a clamp that attaches to the support structure by a three point attachment. This versatile mounting assembly can support a traffic control device 10-15 feet above the mast arm or other support, without significant movement of the pole relative to the bracket or of the bracket relative to the support.