Tripod Clamp Assembly With Cam Locks for Multi-Equipment Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hunters face challenges in carrying and using multiple specialized devices during hunting trips due to their size and weight, leading to the need for more versatile and multi-purpose equipment that can securely attach various items to a support structure like a tripod.
Innovation Solution
A clamping apparatus with L-shaped interlocking brackets and spring-loaded cam locking mechanisms, compatible with standard camera tripods, allows for secure attachment and detachment of firearms, cameras, and other optics, using a standard camera mounting bracket, with rubber pads for protection and reduced noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hunters use multiple specialized support devices for different equipment, then each device can be optimized for its specific purpose, but the overall weight and volume of gear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed as a universal support device that can securely hold multiple types of equipment including firearms, cameras, binoculars, and scopes using a single standardized interface. The L-shaped bracket with mounting hole accommodates various device configurations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized support devices and reducing overall gear weight while maintaining optimized support for each equipment type
2Adaptability or versatility
If hunters carry specialized support devices for each piece of equipment, then each device can provide optimal support, but the total volume and space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly serves as a multi-functional support device that can accommodate firearms, cameras, binoculars, scopes, and other hunting equipment through its standardized L-shaped bracket design. This single device replaces multiple specialized support devices, significantly reducing the total volume and space required in the hunter's gear while maintaining optimal support capabilities for each equipment type
3Device complexity
If a single clamp assembly is used to hold multiple devices, then weight and space are reduced, but the risk of device damage from clamping pressure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly incorporates rubber pads at the contact points where the clamp jaws meet the supported device. These rubber pads provide a soft, non-marring surface that distributes clamping pressure evenly and prevents damage to the device being held. This local modification to the clamp assembly allows it to securely hold multiple devices while eliminating the harmful effect of excessive or concentrated clamping pressure that could damage equipment
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 hunters to efficiently and securely attach multiple devices to a single tripod, reducing the need for carrying multiple specialized items, enhancing the hunting experience by providing stability and ease of use, and accommodating various hunting scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
spring-loaded cam locking mechanisms
Implementation Method 2
rubber pads or other protective material affixed to the surface of the clamping apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus structured and arranged to securely clamp an object to a support structure. The most preferred embodiments of the present invention comprise a clamping apparatus configured to secure a long rifle or other firearm to a tripod, using a standard camera mounting bracket. In this embodiment, the clamping apparatus comprises a base with a pair of substantially L-shaped interlocking brackets and a pair of spring-loaded cam locking mechanisms used to fix the L-shaped brackets in position. Additional preferred embodiments of the present invention comprise rubber pads or other protective material affixed to the surface of the clamping apparatus to minimize damage to the object being clamped. A method of using the clamping apparatus is also disclosed.