Vehicle Mounting Bracket for Rapid Transfer of Wireless Test Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Signal network operators face challenges in easily transferring signal testing units between vehicles due to potential damage, theft, and complex antenna and power connections, which are costly and time-consuming, especially when the units are either unsecured or semi-permanently mounted.
Innovation Solution
A mounting assembly with a channel plate and bracket system that securely attaches signal testing units to vehicles, allowing for easy removal and installation between vehicles, incorporating spring-biased clips for tool-free mounting and optional shock absorption to protect against damage and vibrations, along with integrated or external antenna and power connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the signal testing unit is unsecured in a vehicle, then it can be easily transferred from one vehicle to another, but the signal testing unit can be easily damaged, stolen, or interfere with operation of the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses a dynamic quick-release mechanism that allows the testing unit to be easily installed and removed by a single operator without tools. The bracket engages with the vehicle structure through movable locking elements that secure the unit during operation but allow rapid deployment when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a vehicle-mounted base structure and a removable bracket assembly. This segmentation allows the testing unit to be securely attached when needed while enabling easy transfer between vehicles, as the bracket can be detached and reinstalled on different vehicle platforms
2Reliability
If the signal testing unit is semi-permanently mounted to the vehicle, then the unit cannot be easily transferred, and time and special tools may be required to remove and install the unit
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system employs dynamic quick-release mechanisms with movable locking elements that provide secure attachment during operation but enable rapid removal. The design allows a single operator to install or remove the testing unit without special tools, reducing installation time while maintaining secure mounting when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket incorporates self-locking features that automatically secure the testing unit when engaged, eliminating the need for additional fastening steps or special tools. The quick-release mechanism allows the unit to be removed by simply actuating the release lever, making the entire installation and removal process self-service oriented
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vehicles are used to collect data in various locations, then coverage area is expanded, but the cost increases when installing the signal testing unit in each vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is designed as a universal platform that can be installed in multiple different vehicle types. The standardized base structure and adaptable bracket design allow a single testing unit to be deployed across various vehicle platforms, eliminating the need to purchase separate units for each vehicle while maintaining multi-vehicle deployment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system separates the vehicle-specific interface (base structure) from the testing unit interface (bracket assembly). This segmentation creates a universal connection standard that allows the same testing unit to be mounted on different vehicle platforms, reducing the total number of units needed while expanding geographic coverage through multi-vehicle deployment
4Reliability
If antenna and power connections are required when transferring the signal testing unit, then functionality is maintained, but the complexity of transferring the unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket integrates antenna connections and power cable access into the same mounting structure. This consolidation allows all necessary connections to be made simultaneously with the mounting operation, eliminating separate connection steps and reducing overall transfer complexity while maintaining full functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket serves as an intermediary structure that provides built-in connection points for antennas and power cables. This mediator approach allows connections to be routed through the mounting structure itself rather than requiring separate connection operations, simplifying the transfer process while ensuring reliable functional connectivity
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
Facilitates the efficient and secure movement of signal testing units between vehicles, reducing damage risks and installation complexities while accommodating different unit sizes and configurations, enhancing data collection efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The clip is spring biased, allowing the testing unit to be mounted adjacent to a vehicle surface without the use of a tool
Implementation Method 2
the mounting assembly protects testing units from damage by other objects within the vehicle and from the vibrations of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment of the invention, the mounting assembly includes a channel plate and a bracket for securely receiving the signal testing unit. The channel plate is securely mounted adjacent to a surface of a vehicle and includes a plurality of channels that extend through the plate. The bracket includes a housing for receiving the testing unit and one or more clips. Each clip engages a channel in the channel plate to mount the bracket to the channel plate. In addition, each clip includes at least one finger that includes an engaging portion. The clip is removably engaged into one of the channels by positioning the engaging portion of each finger adjacent the back side of the channel plate such that the bracket is positioned adjacent the front side of the channel plate. In one embodiment, the finger is spring biased.