Tripod Weight Plate Latch Layout for Interference-Free Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tripod stabilizing solutions are not durable, difficult to attach, non-compact, and cumbersome for storage and transport, leading to instability and potential damage to equipment.
Innovation Solution
A rectangular dense material plate with handles and latches, designed for easy attachment, compact storage, and transport, featuring a unique latch positioning to prevent interference during stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If textile material or straps are used for attaching weight plates, then the attachment method is simple, but the durability and ease of attachment are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces textile straps with a mechanical latch system consisting of a latch member, trigger member, and spring assembly. This mechanical system provides both durability through rigid components and ease of attachment through the trigger mechanism that allows quick engagement and disengagement without requiring manual manipulation of straps or knots.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: a latch member for securing the weight plate to the tripod leg, a trigger member for releasing the latch, and a spring for maintaining latch tension. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for both strength and ease of operation.
2Volume of moving object
If lower density granular or modular weight material is used, then the weight plate can be compact, but the shape becomes non-compact and increases tripping hazard
Solution Approach 1:
The weight plate uses a composite construction combining a dense material core (such as metal or dense plastic) with a molded housing. This allows the plate to maintain a compact, stable geometric shape while achieving the necessary weight for stabilization. The dense core material provides weight in a minimal volume, and the rigid housing maintains a predictable, non-tripping shape.
3Stability of the object's composition
If latches are positioned on weight plates for stacking, then the plates can be secured during transport, but the latches may interfere with each other when stacked
Solution Approach 1:
The latch members on adjacent weight plates are positioned asymmetrically relative to the centerline of the plates. Specifically, latches on alternating plates are offset to different sides, ensuring that when plates are stacked, the latches do not align vertically and therefore cannot interfere with each other. This asymmetric positioning maintains stacking security while eliminating latch interference.
4Manufacturing precision
If tripod weights are designed for specific tripod models, then the fit is precise, but the adaptability to different tripods is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The weight plate and latch assembly are designed as universal components that can attach to various tripod leg types and dimensions. The latch member engages with a slot or opening in the tripod leg, and the trigger mechanism provides a standardized interface. This universal design allows the same weight plate to be used with different tripod models while maintaining precise attachment through the latch mechanism.
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
Provides enhanced tripod stability with a durable, easy-to-use solution that is compact and easy to transport, ensuring secure equipment support and preventing latch interference during stacking.
Implementation Method 1
the latches are tensioned with coil springs
Implementation Method 2
Attaching the instant invention leg weights to the lower part of the tripod provides low center of gravity and thereby increases stability
Data Source
AI summary
A stabilizing weight for tripods is formed from a rectangular plate with handles and latches. When a set of three weights are stacked in a container for transport, the handle height and the position of the latches prevents the latches from interfering, regardless of the stacking order.