Universal Insert for Night Vision Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional night vision apparatus requires multiple distinct socket arrangements for coupling the power pack and goggle to the helmet, leading to increased manufacturing and inventory costs.

Innovation Solution

A universal insert with a socket and groove design that can be used in multiple configurations to replace the need for multiple socket arrangements, allowing for a single part to serve the function of four sockets, ensuring secure and releasable coupling of the power pack and goggle to the support band.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple distinct socket arrangements are used for coupling power pack and goggle to helmet, then reliable coupling is achieved, but manufacturing and inventory costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The insert is designed with multiple sockets and grooves in different configurations, allowing a single part to serve multiple coupling functions. The same insert can be used for coupling the power pack to the helmet, the goggle to the power pack, or both simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple distinct socket arrangements and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliable coupling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple distinct socket arrangements are used for coupling power pack and goggle to helmet, then specific coupling requirements are met, but inventory complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling configurationVSAvoidparts inventory

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insert incorporates multiple sockets and grooves that can accommodate different coupling configurations (power pack to helmet, goggle to power pack, or both). This multi-functional design allows the same part to replace multiple specialized components, reducing inventory complexity while maintaining the adaptability needed for various coupling requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines multiple socket and groove features into a single integrated insert component. By merging what would traditionally be separate socket arrangements into one universal insert, the design reduces the number of distinct parts that need to be manufactured and inventoried while preserving all necessary coupling capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Strength

If spring loaded plungers and sockets are used for releasable coupling, then secure attachment is achieved, but simultaneous release coordination becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidrelease mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The universal insert serves as a common interface for multiple spring-loaded plunger and socket couplings. By providing standardized sockets and grooves in the insert, the design allows multiple attachment points to be coordinated through a unified structure, simplifying the release mechanism while maintaining secure attachment through the spring-loaded plunger and socket arrangement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7722279B2Universal insert

Publication Date: 2010.05.25 ELBIT SYSTEMS OF AMERICA LLC

AI summary

A molded plastic insert having a socket and groove formed on an outer surface to cooperate with spring loaded plungers on one of a pair of mating parts to couple the mating parts. A pair of indentations formed on the outer edge of the insert to accommodate any electrical leads between the mating parts.