Clamping Mechanism for a Ball Mount

A clamping mechanism configured to be attachable to a mounting base and to support a ball mount between the clamping mechanism and the mounting base. The clamping mechanism comprising a first-end portion configured to be attached to the mounting base, the first-end portion including a tab, a flexible section, a first bottom surface that extends in a first plane, and a first through hole extending through the tab and the first bottom surface; a second-end portion configured such that a bend allowance of the second-end portion is less than a bend allowance of the first-end portion, the second-end portion including a second bottom surface that extends in a second plane, and a second through hole extending through the second bottom surface; and a contoured surface configured to cradle a body portion of the ball mount.

SUMMARY

In certain applications, ball mounts may be required to be attached to or integrated with equipment, such as cameras, lighting, sensors, and machine vision equipment, which may increase the rotational force of the ball mount relative to a mount, bracket, or clamp supporting the ball mount due to the external load of such equipment. These mounts, brackets, or clamps may be required to enable the ball mount to be moved into various positions and secured in an exact position in order to hold electronic equipment in a steady position to obtain clear images, readings, or accurate measurements. However, in such applications, the ball mount may be required to bear a load which may cause the ball mount to pivot or slip relative to the mount, bracket, or clamp supporting the ball mount. Alternatively, the external loads may cause the mount, bracket, or clamp configured to support the ball mount to yield and fail.

The present disclosure relates to a highly-reliable clamping mechanism for a ball mount configured to provide a strong clamping force to the ball mount and to secure the ball mount in an exact position without increasing material costs and without compromising the adjustability of the ball mount relative to the clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism disclosed herein includes a first-end portion having a flexible section, the flexible section having a bend allowance greater than a bend allowance of a second-end portion of the clamping mechanism thereby enabling the clamping mechanism to be bent and clamped in a fixed position when the clamping mechanism is fastened to a mounting base configured to support the ball mount. In certain embodiments, the first-end portion at the flexible section is thinner than the second-end portion.

At least one embodiment relates to a clamping mechanism configured to be attachable to a mounting base and to support a ball mount between the clamping mechanism and the mounting base, the clamping mechanism comprising a first-end portion configured to be attached to the mounting base, the first-end portion including a tab, a flexible section, a first bottom surface that extends in a first plane, and a first through hole extending through the tab and the first bottom surface; a second-end portion configured such that a bend allowance of the second-end portion is less than a bend allowance of the first-end portion, the second-end portion including a second bottom surface that extends in a second plane, and a second through hole extending through the second bottom surface; and a contoured surface configured to cradle a body portion of the ball mount.

Another embodiment relates to a clamping mechanism configured to be attachable to a mounting base and to support a ball mount between the clamping mechanism and the mounting base, the clamping mechanism comprising a first-end portion configured to be attached to the mounting base, the first-end portion including a tab, a flexible section, a first bottom surface that extends in a first plane, and a first through hole extending through the tab and the first bottom surface; a second-end portion having a radial cross-sectional area that is greater than a radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section, the second-end portion including a second bottom surface that extends in a second plane, and a second through hole extending through the second bottom surface; and a contoured surface configured to cradle a body portion of the ball mount, wherein the first plane is substantially parallel to, and offset from, the second plane.

Yet another embodiment relates to a method for adjustably clamping a ball mount to a mounting base, the method comprising providing a mounting base comprising a mounting base contoured surface, a first surface having a first mounting base hole, and a second surface having a second mounting base hole; providing a clamping mechanism comprising a first-end portion including a tab, a flexible section, a first bottom surface that extends in a first plane, and a first through hole extending through the first bottom surface, a second-end portion including a second bottom surface that extends in a second plane, a second through hole extending through the second bottom surface, and a contoured surface configured to cradle a body portion of the ball mount, providing the ball mount between the contoured surface of the clamping mechanism and the mounting base contoured surface such that the first through hole and the second through hole of the clamping mechanism align with the first mounting base hole and the second mounting base hole respectively; and securing the ball mount between the clamping mechanism and the mounting base such that the first surface of the mounting base contacts the first bottom surface of the clamping mechanism, and the second surface of the mounting base is separated from the second bottom surface of the clamping mechanism by a gap.

Yet another embodiment relates to a clamping mechanism configured to be attachable to a mounting base and to support a ball mount between the clamping mechanism and the mounting base, the clamping mechanism comprising a first-end portion configured to be attached to the mounting base, the first-end portion including a flexible section, a first bottom surface that extends in a first plane, and a first through hole extending through the first bottom surface; a second-end portion configured such that a bend allowance of the second-end portion is less than a bend allowance of the first-end portion, the second-end portion including a second bottom surface that extends in a second plane, and a second through hole extending through the second bottom surface; and a contoured surface configured to cradle a body portion of the ball mount.

Yet another embodiment relates to a clamping mechanism configured to be attachable to a mounting base and to support a ball mount between the clamping mechanism and the mounting base, the clamping mechanism comprising a first-end portion configured to be attached to the mounting base, the first-end portion including a flexible section, a first bottom surface that extends in a first plane, and a first through hole extending through the first bottom surface; a second-end portion having a radial cross-sectional area that is greater than a radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section, the second-end portion including a second bottom surface that extends in a second plane, and a second through hole extending through the second bottom surface; and a contoured surface configured to cradle a body portion of the ball mount, wherein the first plane is substantially parallel to, and offset from, the second plane.

This summary is illustrative only and should not be regarded as limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures.

Referring generally to the figures, disclosed herein is a bracket assembly including a mounting base and a clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism is configured to adjustably support and/or mount a ball mount to a base mount. The ball mount may have a sealing device integrated therein and may be directly connected to and/or integrated with a device, apparatus, enclosure, or mount. Various aspects of the clamping mechanism, and methods described herein, achieve technical advantages including, but not limited to, those noted herein. For ease of reference, embodiments in the present disclosure are described with respect to a mounted enclosure system having a clamping mechanism configured to be attachable to a mounting base and to adjustably support a ball mount assembly that is attachable to an enclosure; however, it is to be understood that the clamping mechanism and methods described herein apply to, and can be used, for other applications.

As utilized herein, the first-end side direction is a direction relative to the clamping mechanism in a length direction extending in the direction of the clamping mechanism having a first-end portion153a(for example, an upward direction (S1) inFIG.9A), and the second-end side direction is a direction relative to the clamping mechanism having a second-end portion153band oriented opposite to the first-end side direction (for example, a downward direction (S2) inFIG.9A). According to one embodiment, the first-end side direction extends approximately through a first through hole axis of the clamping mechanism, and the second-end side direction extends approximately through a second through hole axis of the clamping mechanism.

Overview of Mounted Enclosure System

FIG.1Ais a front perspective view of a mounted enclosure system1, according to one exemplary embodiment.FIG.1Bis a rear perspective view of the mounted enclosure system1shown inFIG.1A.

FIGS.1A-1Bshow an exemplary embodiment of a mounted enclosure system1designed to provide maximum protection to electrical systems contained therein from harsh industrial environments without compromising the adjustability of the electrical system. The mounted enclosure system1may include a ball mount assembly200having a sealing device, such as a soft rubber, foam, or like device integrated therein, an enclosure400, and a bracket assembly100. The bracket assembly100may include a mounting base130and a clamping mechanism150. The enclosure400and the ball mount assembly200may be designed in a variety of different shapes and configurations, and it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments depicted inFIGS.1A and1B.

According to one embodiment, the mounted enclosure system1shown inFIGS.1A-1Bmay be designed to allow a cable600, tube, and/or the like to pass therethrough. The cable600may be configured to provide an electrical signal and/or a fluid flow through the ball mount assembly200and the bracket assembly100. The bracket assembly100may be designed to clamp the ball mount assembly200by bending the clamping mechanism150toward the ball mount assembly200as the clamping mechanism150is attached to the mounting base130to support the ball mount assembly200in a fixed position. The ball mount assembly200may be configured to form a leak resistant connection with the enclosure400and may be supported by the bracket assembly100. The ball mount assembly200may also form a pressure seal between the exterior of the ball mount assembly200and the interior of the enclosure400. The enclosure400may be designed to accommodate electrical devices such as cameras, lighting, sensors, barcode readers, lasers, machine vision equipment, security equipment, and the like.

According to one embodiment, the clamping mechanism150may be fastened/attached to the mounting base130such that the ball mount assembly200may be securely fixed relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130. In such a fixed configuration (or fully fastened state), at least one side of the clamping mechanism150may be configured to bend toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200. The clamping mechanism150may be fastened/attached to the mounting base130by fasteners such that at least one side of the clamping mechanism150may be attached, loosened, and/or adjusted so that the ball mount assembly200may be adjusted relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130.

In at least one of the above mentioned configurations, the clamping mechanism150may be attached to the mounting base130such that an angle position of the ball mount assembly200, and the enclosure400attachable thereto, may be adjusted relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130. Various embodiments of the structure of the bracket assembly100and the ball mount assembly200, and the components thereof, are described in more detail below.

Overview of Mounted Ball Mount Assembly

FIGS.2A-4illustrate various views of the mounted ball mount assembly1A according to one exemplary embodiment.FIG.2Ais a left-side rear perspective view of a mounted ball mount assembly1A including the bracket assembly100and the ball mount assembly200as shown in the mounted enclosure system1depicted inFIGS.1A-1B.FIG.2Bis a right-side rear perspective view of the mounted ball mount assembly1A shown inFIG.2A.FIG.3is a front view of the mounted ball mount assembly1A shown inFIG.2A.FIG.4is a side view of the mounted ball mount assembly1A shown inFIG.2A. The views depicted inFIGS.2A-4show various assembled views of the mounted ball mount assembly1A depicting how the mounting base130, the clamping mechanism150, and a ball mount220of the ball mount assembly200may fit together according to one exemplary embodiment.FIG.5shows an exploded view of the ball mount220of the ball mount assembly200, the mounting base130of the bracket assembly100, and the clamping mechanism150of the bracket assembly100.

As illustrated inFIGS.2A-5, the mounted ball mount assembly1A includes the bracket assembly100and the ball mount assembly200. The bracket assembly100includes the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150. The ball mount assembly200includes the ball mount220, a compression fitting260, and a sealing insert280. As illustrated inFIG.3, the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150are configured to be fastened to each other on a first-end side S1and on a second-end side S2. A first through hole axis Y1extends through the clamping mechanism150on the first-end side S1and a second through hole axis Y2extends through the clamping mechanism150on the second-end side S2. As illustrated inFIG.4, the clamping mechanism150comprises a center axis C1and the ball mount220comprises a center axis C2. In certain angular configurations of the mounted ball mount assembly1A, the center axis C1and the center axis C2may coincide. As illustrated inFIG.5, the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150may be configured such that the ball mount220may be adjustably supported between a mounting base contoured surface132of the mounting base130and a contoured surface152of the clamping mechanism150.

Referring toFIGS.2A-5generally, when the ball mount220is supported by the clamping mechanism150, the ball mount220may be configured to swivel relative to the mounting base130and/or the clamping mechanism150. For example, in an adjustable configuration of the mounted ball mount assembly1A, the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150may be attached and/or fastened to one another, and in contact with the ball mount220at the mounting base contoured surface132and the contoured surface152, such that an angle position of the ball mount220may be adjusted relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130. Alternatively, the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150may be attached and/or fastened to one another in a fixed configuration of the mounted ball mount assembly1A, and in contact with the ball mount220at the mounting base contoured surface132and the contoured surface152, such that an angle position of the ball mount220may be fixed relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130.

According to one embodiment, the clamping mechanism150may be configured to bend a first amount toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200in the adjustable configuration and the clamping mechanism150may be configured to bend a second amount toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200in the fixed configuration. In this exemplary embodiment, the second amount which the clamping mechanism150may bend toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200is greater than the first amount which the clamping mechanism150may bend toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200. In other words, a gap112between the clamping mechanism150and the mounting base130in a direction parallel to the second through hole axis Y2on a second-end side S2is larger when the clamping mechanism150is bent the first amount, or when the clamping mechanism150is unbent, than when the clamping mechanism150is bent the second amount.

The amount which the clamping mechanism150may bend increases between the first amount in the adjustable configuration and the second amount in the fixed configuration. However, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not particularly limited to this embodiment. For example, the clamping mechanism150may be configured to bend toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200after the clamping mechanism150is in the fixed configuration. In an alternate embodiment, the bending of the clamping mechanism150may begin to occur before the mounted ball mount assembly1A is in the fixed configuration. The bending may continue to occur after the mounted ball mount assembly1A is in the fixed configuration.

Mounted Ball Mount Assembly: Ball Mount Assembly

The ball mount assembly200according to the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS.2A-5, includes a ball mount220, a compression fitting260having a head261, and a sealing insert280having a slit portion281. The ball mount220, as shown in further detail inFIG.6, includes a body portion221, a base portion222, a neck223coupling the body portion221to the base portion222, and an internal passage226. The body portion221includes an opening227aand the base portion222includes an opening228a. The opening227aand the opening228amay be arranged concentrically about the center axis C2of the ball mount220. The internal passage226of the ball mount220is defined by a first sidewall227, a second sidewall228, and a shoulder portion229. The internal passage226of the ball mount220is configured to extend between the opening227aof the first sidewall227of the body portion221in an axial direction of the ball mount220to the opening228aof the second sidewall228of the base portion222.

The sealing insert280is configured to be inserted into the internal passage226of the ball mount220and secured in the internal passage226by the compression fitting260. The compression fitting260may be configured to be fit to the ball mount220such that the sealing insert280is securely interposed between the compression fitting260and the ball mount220in the internal passage226. The ball mount220, the compression fitting260, and the sealing insert280are each configured to allow a cable600to pass therethrough. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly100may be configured to support the ball mount assembly200such that the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150allow the cable600to pass through the bracket assembly100.

According to an alternative embodiment, as shown inFIGS.10A-13, the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150may be configured to support a ball mount220′ including a conventional body portion221′ having a uniform surface.FIGS.10A-13illustrate various views of the mounted ball mount assembly1B.FIGS.10A-10Billustrate a left-side rear perspective view and a right-side rear perspective view, respectively, of a mounted ball mount assembly1B including the bracket assembly100and the ball mount220′.FIG.11is a front view of the mounted ball mount assembly1B shown inFIG.10A.FIG.12is a side view of the mounted ball mount assembly1B shown inFIG.10A.FIG.13is an exploded view of the ball mount220′ and a bracket assembly100including the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150, according to the embodiment shown inFIG.10A.FIG.14is a perspective view of the ball mount220′ shown inFIG.10A.

The alternative embodiment of the ball mount220′ shown inFIGS.10A-14is similar to the embodiment of the ball mount assembly200comprising the ball mount220shown inFIGS.1A-6, and described above, except for the differences described herein. The ball mount220′, as shown in further detail inFIG.14, includes the conventional body portion221′, a base portion222′, and a neck223′ coupling the conventional body portion221′ to the base portion222′. The conventional body portion221′ of the ball mount220′ comprises a solid surface. One technical advantage of the solid surface of the conventional body portion221′ of the ball mount220′ is that an angle position of the ball mount220′ may be adjusted relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130to a greater degree than an angle position of the ball mount220′ may be adjusted relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130in certain embodiments. The structure of the bracket assembly100including the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150, and the components thereof, are described in more detail below.

Mounted Ball Mount Assembly: Bracket Assembly

Referring back toFIGS.2A-5, the bracket assembly100includes the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150. According to one embodiment of the bracket assembly100, the mounting base130, as illustrated in further detail inFIG.7, and the clamping mechanism150, as illustrated in further detail inFIGS.8A-9D, may be configured such that the ball mount220is adjustably supported and/or fixed between the mounting base contoured surface132of the mounting base130and the contoured surface152of the clamping mechanism150when the clamping mechanism150is fastened/attached to the mounting base130.

In one embodiment, the mounting base130and/or the clamping mechanism150may comprise a single material or multiple materials. For example, in one embodiment the first-end portion153amay comprise a first material and the second-end portion153bmay comprise a second material. The first material may have a greater flexibility than the second material such that a first bend allowance of the first-end portion153ais greater than a second bend allowance of the second-end portion153b. As such, the first-end portion153ahaving the first material is able to be bent toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200as the clamping mechanism150is attached to the mounting base130.

The mounting base130and/or the clamping mechanism150may be made of any suitable material or materials. For example, the mounting base130and/or the clamping mechanism150may be made of aluminum, plastic, and/or stainless steel so long as the dimensional configuration of the mounting base130and/or the clamping mechanism150are optimized based on the properties of the material or materials used. In one embodiment, the mounting base130and/or the clamping mechanism150may comprise food-grade metals known in the field, such as 316 stainless steel, or food-grade plastic resins known in the field, such as polypropylene.

Mounting Base

As illustrated inFIG.7, the mounting base130includes a first mounting base through hole131aextending through a first surface130a, a second mounting base through hole131bextending through a second surface130b, the mounting base contoured surface132, a first leg136a, and a second leg136b. According to one embodiment, the mounting base130is configured such that the mounting base contoured surface132is configured to cradle a body portion221of the ball mount220. In some embodiments, the first leg136aand the second leg136bare configured to be affixed to, or integrated with, a supporting surface such as a wall, floor, system, device, or the like. The first mounting base through hole131ais configured such that the first through hole axis Y1extends through the first mounting base through hole131a. The second mounting base through hole131bis configured such that the second through hole axis Y2extends through the second mounting base through hole131b. In other embodiments, a through hole axis does not extend through a mounting base through hole. The first through hole axis Y1and the second through hole axis Y2are configured to be substantially parallel to one another and to be positioned on opposite sides of the ball mount220when the ball mount220is supported by the clamping mechanism150and the mounting base130.

According to one embodiment, the width Wmb of the mounting base130and the width Wcm of the clamping mechanism150should be large enough to provide a mating interface111between the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150. The first bottom surface150aof the clamping mechanism150is configured to be in direct contact with the first surface130aof the mounting base130. Generally, the mounting base130may be designed to accommodate the ball mount220through a variety of different configurations so long as the mounting base130is configured to support the ball mount220and to be attachable to the clamping mechanism150, and it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not particularly limited to the embodiment described herein.

For example, an alternate embodiment of the mounting base130′ is illustrated inFIG.15. The alternate embodiment of the mounting base130′ illustrated inFIG.15is similar to the embodiment of the mounting base130shown inFIG.7, and described above, except for the differences described herein. The alternate embodiment of the mounting base130′ includes a mounting bracket139′ having a first base mounting hole139a′ and a second base mounting hole139b′. The first base mounting hole139a′ is configured such that a third through hole axis Y3extends through the first base mounting hole139a′, and the second base mounting hole139b′ is configured such that a fourth through hole axis Y4extends through the second base mounting hole139b′. The mounting bracket139′ of the mounting base130′ is configured to be affixed to or integrated with a supporting surface such as a wall, floor, system, device, or the like.

Clamping Mechanism

The clamping mechanism150is illustrated in further detail inFIGS.8A-9D.FIG.8Ais a top perspective view of the clamping mechanism150shown inFIG.5.FIG.8Bis a bottom perspective view of the clamping mechanism150shown inFIG.8A.FIGS.9A-9Dgenerally relate to the dimensional configurations of the clamping mechanism150according to certain non-limiting embodiments, and are discussed in further detail below.

As illustrated inFIGS.8A-8B, the clamping mechanism150is comprised of a first-end portion153ahaving a flexible section156and a second-end portion153blocated on a first-end side S1and a second-end side S2of the clamping mechanism150, respectively. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first-end portion153amay correspond to a thin-end portion and a second-end portion153bmay correspond to a thick-end portion; however, the present disclosure is not to be limited to such a configuration. The clamping mechanism150may include a first bottom surface150aon the first-end portion153a, a second bottom surface150bon the second-end portion153b, a front surface150c, a rear surface150d, a top surface150edisposed between the front surface150cand the rear surface150d, and a contoured surface152configured to cradle the body portion221of the ball mount220.

The contoured surface152includes a first edge152aformed between the first bottom surface150aand the contoured surface152on the first-end portion153a, a second edge152bformed between the second bottom surface150band the contoured surface152on the second-end portion153b, a front edge152cformed between the front surface150cand the contoured surface152, and a rear edge152dformed between the rear surface150dand the contoured surface152. The first edge152a, the second edge152b, the front edge152c, and the rear edge152dof the contoured surface152contour the body portion221of the ball mount220. The contoured surface152is located opposite the top surface150eand oriented toward the mounting base contoured surface132in the assembled, bracket assembly100.

In both the adjustable configuration (partially fastened state) and the fixed configuration (fully fastened state), the first edge152ais configured to make direct contact with the mounting base130at a mating interface111. Additionally, in both the partially fastened state and the fully fastened state the second edge152bis configured to be separated from the mounting base130by a gap112in order to allow for a space for the clamping mechanism150to bend as the second-end portion153bis clamped toward the mounting base130. A seam is thereby formed between the second bottom surface150band the second surface130balong the gap112.

According to one embodiment, the front edge152cis configured to form an arc shape across the clamping mechanism150from the first bottom surface150ato the second bottom surface150b, and the rear edge152dis configured to form an arc shape across the clamping mechanism150from the first bottom surface150ato the second bottom surface150b. The arc formed by the front edge152cand the rear edge152dmay have the same radius of curvature. The arc formed by the front edge152cand/or the rear edge152dmay form the basis for establishing the center point C, and the center axis C1, with respect to which various radial cross-sectional areas of the clamping mechanism150may be measured. For example, a radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section156and a radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153bmay be located in intersecting planes which intersect along the center axis C1of the contoured surface152which extends through the center point C of the arc defined by the front edge152cand/or the rear edge152dof the contoured surface152. In one embodiment, the ball mount assembly200and the bracket assembly100may be configured such that the center axis C1of the contoured surface152is also a center axis C2of the ball mount220.

The first-end portion153aincludes a tab155, the flexible section156disposed between the tab155and the second-end portion153b, the first bottom surface150aextending in a first plane, and a first through hole151aconfigured to extend through the first bottom surface150a. The first-end portion153aof the clamping mechanism150is located on the first-end side S1of the clamping mechanism150including the flexible section156and is configured to be bendable toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200as the clamping mechanism150is fastened to the mounting base130. In one embodiment, the second-end portion153bmay transition from the second-end portion153bto the first-end portion153aat an arbitrary location between the flexible section156of the first-end portion153aand the second bottom surface150b.

The tab155of the first-end portion153amay include a top face155b, a bottom face155aextending away from the first edge152aof the contoured surface152, a side face155cwhich may be substantially perpendicular to the top face155band/or the bottom face155a. The bottom face155aand the top face155bmay be substantially parallel to one another. The top face155b, in certain embodiments, may be smaller than the bottom face155a. In one embodiment, the bottom face155aof the tab155is the same surface as the first bottom surface150aof the clamping mechanism150. In another embodiment, the bottom face155aof the tab155is a portion of the first bottom surface150aof the clamping mechanism150such that the bottom face155ais not configured to contact the first edge152a. In yet another embodiment, the bottom face155aof the tab155may be separate from the first bottom surface150aof the clamping mechanism150such that the bottom face155ais not configured to directly contact the first surface130aof the mounting base130. The tab155may be configured such that the first through hole151aextends through the top face155band the bottom face155aof the tab155.

The flexible section156of the first-end portion153amay be disposed between the second-end portion153band the tab155. When the clamping mechanism150is in an adjustable configuration, in which the clamping mechanism150is attached, loosened, and/or adjusted to the mounting base130such that the ball mount220is adjustable relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130, the flexible section156may be configured to bend toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200.

When the clamping mechanism150is in a fixed configuration, in which the ball mount220is in a fixed position relative to the mounting base130and/or the clamping mechanism150, the flexible section156is configured to bend toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200to an amount greater than the amount which the flexible section156may be bent, if at all, in the adjustable configuration. In certain embodiments, the flexible section156may not begin to bend until the clamping mechanism is in the fixed configuration. The first-end portion153aof the clamping mechanism150may further be configured to bend back to an initial (unbent) state once the clamping mechanism is adjusted from the fixed configuration to the adjustable configuration. The materials selected for the clamping mechanism150preferably enable the flexible section156of the first-end portion153ato bend and unbend in cycle without damage or fatigue to the first-end portion153adue to repetitive cycles of stress on the flexible section156.

According to one embodiment, the flexible section156may be disposed directly adjacent to the second-end portion153band directly adjacent to the tab155. In another embodiment, the flexible section156may be disposed directly adjacent to the second-end portion153band spaced apart from the tab155by some distance. In yet another embodiment, the flexible section156may be disposed directly adjacent to the tab155and spaced apart from the second-end portion153bby some other distance defined by an intermediate portion of the clamping mechanism150disposed between the first-end portion153aand the second-end portion153b. For example, in an alternate embodiment, an intermediate portion of uniform thickness may be interposed between the first-end portion153aand the second-end portion153b.

According to one embodiment, an average thickness of the first-end portion153ais less than an average thickness of the second-end portion153b, as measured along the radial cross-sectional areas of the clamping mechanism150. The radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section156and the radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153bmay be located in intersecting planes which intersect along a center axis C1of the contoured surface152, the center axis C1extending through a center point C of an arc defined by the front edge152cand/or the rear edge152dof the contoured surface152, as illustrated inFIG.9D. According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIGS.8A-8B, the radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section156is less than any radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153band any radial cross-sectional area of the tab155.

The largest radial cross-sectional area of the tab155may be less than, or approximately equal to, the largest radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153b. The largest cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153bis located at, or near, the second bottom surface150b. However, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not particularly limited to the embodiment described herein. For example, in an alternate embodiment, the largest radial cross-sectional area of the tab155may be equal to or greater than the largest radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153b.

In one embodiment, the thinnest radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section156is approximately 10% less than the largest radial cross-sectional area of the tab155and/or the largest radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153b. In another embodiment, the thinnest radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section156is approximately 20% less than the largest radial cross-sectional area of the tab155and/or the largest radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153b. In yet another embodiment, the thinnest radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section156is approximately 30% less than the largest radial cross-sectional area of the tab155and/or the largest radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153b. In yet another embodiment, the thinnest radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section156is approximately 40% less than the largest radial cross-sectional area of the tab155and/or the largest radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153b.

Although the embodiment of the clamping mechanism150illustrated inFIGS.8A-9Ddepict a first-end portion153a, which corresponds to a thin-end portion, and a second-end portion153b, which corresponds to a thick-end portion, it is to be understood that the instant disclosure is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, in an alternate embodiment, an average thickness of the first-end portion153amay be greater than an average thickness of the second-end portion153bso long as the flexible section156is configured to bend due to its high bend allowance which is greater than the bend allowance of the second-end portion153b. In another alternate embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the flexible section156may be larger than the radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153band/or the radial cross-sectional area of the tab155so long as the flexible section156is configured to bend due to its high bend allowance.

The second-end portion153bincludes the second bottom surface150bextending in a second plane and the second through hole151bconfigured to extend through the second bottom surface150b. The second plane being offset from the first plane of the first bottom surface150asuch that the offset between the first plane and the second plane forms the gap112, as illustrated inFIG.3, when the first bottom surface150ais in contact with the first surface130aof the mounting base130. The second-end portion153bof the clamping mechanism150is located on the second-end side S2of the clamping mechanism150and is configured such that the thickness of the second-end portion153bis greater than the thickness of the flexible section156of the first-end portion153a. The thickness of the second-end portion153b, as measured in the radial direction described above, may be configured to decrease in the first-end side S1direction of the clamping mechanism150and to increase in the second-end side S2direction. In an alternate embodiment, the second-end portion153bmay be substantially uniform in thickness.

As illustrated in the front view of the exemplary embodiment of the bracket assembly100shown inFIG.3, the clamping mechanism150may be attached and/or fastened to the mounting base130such that the first-end portion153aof the clamping mechanism150is in contact with the mounting base130and such that the second-end portion153bof the clamping mechanism150is separated from the mounting base130. According to one embodiment, the first bottom surface150aof the first-end portion153ais configured to be in direct contact with the first surface130aof the mounting base130thereby forming the mating interface111when the mounting base130and the first bottom surface150aare attached and/or fastened to one another via a first fastener (not shown) in both the adjustable configuration and the fixed configuration due to a first clamping force between the first bottom surface150aand the first surface130a. The first bottom surface150aand the first surface130ashould be aligned and clamped securely such that the two surfaces do not separate or move in a shear direction when a load is applied to the second-end portion153bor the bracket assembly100generally.

The second bottom surface150bof the second-end portion153bis configured to not contact the second surface130bof the mounting base130such that a gap112remains between the second bottom surface150band the second surface130bwhen the clamping mechanism150is in the adjustable configuration and the fixed configuration. The gap112between the second bottom surface150bof the second-end portion153band the second surface130bdecreases, but remains, in the direction parallel to the second through hole axis Y2on a second-end side S2when a second clamping force between the second bottom surface150band the second surface130bis applied via a second fastener (not shown).

The first clamping force between the first bottom surface150aand the first surface130amay be adjustable by any type of fastener known in the field, such as screws, bolts, or other type of fastener those skilled in the art will appreciate from this disclosure, and may form an interference fit, a threaded fit, a snap fit, or any other type of fit. The second clamping force between the second bottom surface150band the second surface130bmay be adjustable by any type of fastener known in the field, such as screws, bolts, or other type of fastener those skilled in the art will appreciate from this disclosure, so long as the fastener adjustably attaches the second bottom surface150bwith the second surface130b.

In alternate embodiments, a spacing component may be interposed between the first bottom surface150aand the first surface130aand/or between the second bottom surface150band the second surface130b. A spacing component interposed between the second bottom surface150band the second surface130bmay be made of conventional materials known in the field so long as the materials are capable of being deformable to enable the size of the gap112, between the second bottom surface150bof the clamping mechanism150and the second surface130bof the mounting base130, to become smaller as the clamping mechanism150is adjusted from the adjustable configuration to the fixed configuration.

The mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150may be attached to one another in a partially fastened state or a fully fastened state. The partially fastened state may result in an adjustable configuration in which the ball mount220may be adjustably positioned between the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150. According to one embodiment, when the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150are attached to one another in the partially fastened state, and in contact with the ball mount220such that an angle position of the ball mount220may be adjusted relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130, the second-end portion153bof the clamping mechanism150is configured to be separated from the mounting base130when the first-end portion153aof the clamping mechanism150is in contact with the mounting base130. The shape of the clamping mechanism150in the partially fastened state may be the same as the clamping mechanism150when it is not attached to the mounting base130.

According to one embodiment, the fully fastened state results in a fixed configuration in which the ball mount220is fixed relative to the clamping mechanism150and the mounting base130. When the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150are attached to one another in the fully fastened state, and in contact with the ball mount220such that an angle position of the ball mount220is fixed relative to the clamping mechanism150and/or the mounting base130, the second-end portion153bof the clamping mechanism150is not configured to contact the mounting base130when the first-end portion153aof the clamping mechanism150is in contact with the mounting base130. Thus, the gap112remains between the surface of the second-end portion153band the mounting base130even when the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150are in the fully fastened state. In a preferred embodiment, adjustment between the partially fastened state and the fully fastened state is achieved by adjusting the second fastener while the first fastener ensures direct contact between the first bottom surface150aof the first-end portion153aand the first surface130aof the mounting base130forming the mating interface111.

The mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150may be attachable to one another via a first fastener along the first through hole axis Y1and a second fastener along the second through hole axis Y2(fasteners not illustrated). The first fastener and the second fastener are configured to fasten the first through hole151aand the second through hole151bto the first mounting base through hole131aand the second mounting base through hole131b, respectively. The first-end portion153ais configured to be bendable toward the ball mount220when the clamping mechanism150is fully attached to the mounting base130via the first fastener and as the clamping mechanism150approaches the fully fastened state via the second fastener.

The first through hole151aand the second through hole151bmay be formed by any procedure and configured in any shape known in the field, such as a counterbore hole, a countersink hole, or other type of hole those skilled in the art will appreciate from this disclosure so long as a fastener extending through the first through hole151aand/or the second through hole151bis capable of restricting shear movement of the clamping mechanism150relative to the mounting base130.

It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the clamping mechanism150illustrated inFIGS.8A-8B. For example, an alternative embodiment of the clamping mechanism150′ is illustrated inFIGS.16A-16C. The alternate embodiment of the clamping mechanism150′ illustrated inFIGS.16A-16Cis similar to the embodiment of the clamping mechanism150shown inFIGS.8A-8Band described in the instant specification except for the differences described herein.

According to one embodiment, the clamping mechanism150′ may include a modified first-end portion153a′, a second-end portion153b′, and an intermediate portion153c′ disposed therebetween. The intermediate portion153c′ may comprise a top surface150e′ and may separate the modified first-end portion153a′ from the second-end portion153b′. The modified first-end portion153a′ may comprise a first through hole151a′, an integrated tab155′, a modified flexible section156′, a through hole158′, and a pocket159′. The integrated tab155′ may be formed in the modified first-end portion153a′ and disposed between the pocket159′ and the bottom face155a′ of the integrated tab155′ and/or the first bottom surface150a′ of the clamping mechanism150′. The pocket159′ comprises an inner pocket surface159e′ having the through hole158′ extending therethrough and may be formed into the modified first-end portion153a′. According to one embodiment, the pocket159′ may be defined by a first top pocket edge159a′, a second top pocket edge159b′, a front pocket edge159c′, and a rear pocket edge159d′ such that the pocket159′ extends from the front surface150c′ to the rear surface150d′ of the clamping mechanism150′.

The modified flexible section156′ is configured to be bendable toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200. In one embodiment, the modified flexible section156′ may be disposed between the integrated tab155′ and the intermediate portion153c′ and further disposed between the contoured surface152′ and the inner pocket surface159e′ of the pocket159′. The modified flexible section156′ may comprise some or all of the portions of the modified first-end portion153a′ containing the pocket159′ in a radial cross-sectional area. In a preferred embodiment, the modified flexible section156′ includes the radial cross-sectional areas that are defined, in part, by the inner pocket surface159e′ of the modified first-end portion153a′.

The average thickness of the modified flexible section156′ is less than the average thickness of the second-end portion153b′. In a preferred embodiment, the radial cross-sectional areas of the modified flexible section156′ are less than the radial cross-sectional areas of the intermediate portion153c′, the radial cross-sectional areas of the second-end portion153b′, and/or the radial cross-sectional areas of the integrated tab155′. However, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not particularly limited to the embodiment described herein. For example, in an alternate embodiment, the largest radial cross-sectional area of the modified flexible section156′ may be equal to or greater than the largest radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153b′ so long as the modified flexible section156′ is configured to bend due to its high bend allowance which is greater than the bend allowance of the second-end portion153b′.

The modified first-end portion153a′ may be fabricated by cutting, shaping, or molding the pocket159′ into the clamping mechanism150′. One technical effect of the alternate embodiment illustrated inFIGS.16A-16C, and described above, is that the modified flexible section156′ is configured to bend toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200to an amount greater than the amount which the second-end portion153b′ may be bent. The flexibility or bendability of the modified first-end portion153a′ is further increased due to relief cuts at the first top pocket edge159a′ and the second top pocket edge159b′.

Referring back toFIGS.9A-9D,FIG.9Aillustrates a front view of the clamping mechanism150shown inFIG.8A.FIG.9Bis a cross-sectional view of the clamping mechanism150between lines IXB and IXB shown inFIG.9A.FIG.9Cis a bottom view of the clamping mechanism150shown inFIG.8A.FIG.9Dillustrates a rotated front view of the clamping mechanism150shown inFIG.9A.

As illustrated inFIG.9A, the clamping mechanism150according to one embodiment has a first height H1representing a distance between a top face155bof the tab155and the bottom face155aof the tab155. The first height H1may also represent a distance between the top face155bof the tab155and the first bottom surface150aof the clamping mechanism150. The clamping mechanism150may further comprise a second height H2representing a distance between the first bottom surface150aor bottom face155aof the tab155and the second bottom surface150b. The clamping mechanism150may further comprise a third height H3representing a distance between the chamfered edge A of the first-end portion153aand the second bottom surface150b. The clamping mechanism150may further comprise a fourth height H4corresponding to the height of the clamping mechanism150between the front edge152cor the rear edge152dof the contoured surface152and the top surface150emeasured in the radial direction orthogonal to the first plane including the first bottom surface150a. The clamping mechanism150may further comprise a fifth height H5corresponding to the height of the clamping mechanism150between the second plane including the second bottom surface150band the top surface150emeasured in the radial direction orthogonal to the first plane including the first bottom surface150a.

The second height H2may correspond to the size of the gap112between the second bottom surface150bof the clamping mechanism150and the second surface130bof the mounting base130in the direction parallel to the second through hole axis Y2on the second-end side S2. In certain configurations of the clamping mechanism150, the second height H2may correspond to the distance which the first plane and the second plane are offset from one another. The height of the gap112should be high enough to allow a fastener extending through the second through hole axis Y2to be tightened such that when the clamping mechanism150contacts the ball mount220, a clearance remains between the second bottom surface150band the second surface130bat the gap112.

The clamping mechanism150according to one embodiment may include a first radiused edge R1, a second radiused edge R2, a third radiused edge R3, a fourth radiused edge R4, and a fifth radiused edge R5. The first radiused edge R1corresponds to the radius of curvature at the tab155between the side face155cand the top face155b. The second radiused edge R2corresponds to the radius of curvature between the top face155bof the tab155and the top surface150eof the clamping mechanism150. In one embodiment, the second radiused edge R2may be formed between the top face155bof the tab155and the top surface150eof the clamping mechanism150at the flexible section156. The first radiused edge R1and the second radiused edge R2may have the same radius of curvature; however, the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. The third radiused edge R3corresponds to the radius of curvature of the arc formed by the front edge152cand/or the rear edge152dof the contoured surface152. The fourth radiused edge R4corresponds to the radius of curvature of the top surface150eof the clamping mechanism150along the section of the first-end portion153aincluding the flexible section156.

In one embodiment, the third radiused edge R3and the fourth radiused edge R4are chosen to provide a flexible section156along the clamping mechanism150which will bend or flex when the second bottom surface150bof the clamping mechanism150and the second surface130bof the mounting base130are fastened together in the direction parallel to the second through hole axis Y2on the second-end side S2to support the ball mount220without creating a high stress concentration at the flexible section156. The third radiused edge R3is configured to have a radius of curvature slightly larger than a radius of curvature of the body portion221of the ball mount220. As such, when the first bottom surface150aof the clamping mechanism150and the first surface130aof the mounting base130are fastened together in the direction parallel to the first through hole axis Y1on the first-end side S1to support the ball mount220, the first faster configured to fasten the first through hole151ato the first mounting base through hole131acan be tightened to full torque while still allowing the ball/clamp joint to be adjusted before the second fastener is fully fastened.

The fifth radiused edge R5, illustrated inFIG.9B, corresponds to the radius of curvature of the contoured surface152of the clamping mechanism150along a radial cross-sectional area of the clamping mechanism along lines IXB and IXB shown inFIG.9A. The radius of curvature of the contoured surface152along lines IXB and IXB corresponds to the radius of curvature of the first edge152aand/or the second edge152bof the contoured surface152. The fifth radiused edge R5along the first edge152aand/or the second edge152bcomprises a radius of curvature equal to or slightly less than the radius of curvature of the body portion221of the ball mount220in order to enable the ball mount to be adjustably clamped between the mounting base contoured surface132of the mounting base130and the contoured surface152of the clamping mechanism150.

As illustrated inFIG.9C, the clamping mechanism150according to one embodiment may include a first length L1between the side face155cof the tab155and an edge formed between the second bottom surface150band top surface150eof the clamping mechanism150, a second length L2between the first through hole axis Y1and the center axis C1of the contoured surface152, a third length L3between the first through hole axis Y1and the second through hole axis Y2, and a width Wcm of the clamping mechanism150. The second length L2may be configured to be one half of the third length L3; however, the present invention is not so limited. For example, in one embodiment, the second length L2may be greater than one half of the third length L3depending on the depth of the tab155extending in a first plane and/or the position of the first through hole151aextending through the first bottom surface150a. In another embodiment, the second length L2may be less than one half of the third length L3depending on the thickness of the second-end portion153band/or the position of the second through hole151bextending through the second bottom surface150b.

The length of the width Wcm of the clamping mechanism150should be large enough to provide a mating interface111such that the first bottom surface150aof the clamping mechanism150is in direct contact with the first surface130aof the mounting base130. The width Wcm of the clamping mechanism150should be wide enough to provide a mating interface111large enough to counteract a bending force applied to the clamping mechanism150resulting from an external load applied to the ball mount220such that the ball mount220is configured to slip or rotate in the bracket assembly100prior to causing damage to the clamping mechanism150.

As illustrated inFIG.9D, the arc formed by the front edge152cand/or the rear edge152dof the clamping mechanism150may form the basis for establishing the center point C and the center axis C1, the center axis C1of the clamping mechanism150extending out of the page containingFIG.9D. The center point C and/or the center axis C1may establish a reference point with respect to which the various radial cross-sectional areas may be measured.

According to one embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the first-end portion153amay be located between 0° on the first-end side S1to approximately 120° from the first-end side S1. In another embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the first-end portion153amay be located between 0° on the first-end side S1to approximately 105° from the first-end side S1. In another embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the first-end portion153amay be located between 0° on the first-end side S1to approximately 90° from the first-end side S1. In another embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the first-end portion153amay be located between 0° on the first-end side S1to approximately 75° from the first-end side S1. In another embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the first-end portion153amay be located between 0° on the first-end side S1to approximately 60° from the first-end side S1. In another embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the first-end portion153amay be located between 0° on the first-end side S1to approximately 45° from the first-end side S1. In another embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the first-end portion153amay be located between 0° on the first-end side S1to approximately 30° from the first-end side S1. The first-end portion153amay be configured to extend across any of the above defined ranges.

According to one embodiment, the radial cross-sectional area of the second-end portion153bmay be located between the second bottom surface150bof the clamping mechanism150near the 0° point on the second-end side S2and any of the above defined ranges with respect to the first-end portion153a. The transition point between the first-end portion153aand the second-end portion153bmay be located between approximately 30° from the first-end side S1to approximately 30° from the second-end side S2. The flexible section156of the first-end portion153amay be located along any portion of the ranges defined above with respect to the first-end portion153a.

In a preferred embodiment, the flexible section156is located in an upper range of the first-end portion153aand the tab155is located in a lower range of the first-end portion153a. For example, according to one embodiment, the tab155may be located from approximately 0° from the first-end side S1to approximately 10° from the first-end side S1and the flexible section156may be located between approximately 10° from the first-end side S1to approximately 90° from the first-end side S1. In another embodiment, the tab155may be located from approximately 0° from the first-end side S1to approximately 20° from the first-end side S1and the flexible section156may be located between approximately 20° from the first-end side S1to approximately 90° from the first-end side S1. In another embodiment, the tab155may be located from approximately 0° from the first-end side S1to approximately 30° from the first-end side S1and the flexible section156may be located between approximately 30° from the first-end side S1to approximately 90° from the first-end side S1.

However, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the exemplary reference points depicted inFIG.9D. For example, in an alternate embodiment, an intermediate portion of uniform thickness may be interposed between the first-end portion153aincluding the flexible section156and the second-end portion153b. In another alternate embodiment, the flexible section156may be wholly contained within the first-end portion153asuch that another section of the first-end portion153a, thicker than the flexible section156, may be disposed between the flexible section156and the second-end portion153b.

Referring back toFIG.3, the first-end portion153ais configured to have a first bend allowance and the second-end portion153bis configured to have a second bend allowance, the first bend allowance being greater than the second bend allowance. According to one embodiment, the first bend allowance of the first-end portion153ais determined at the flexible section156. Thus, the second bend allowance of the second-end portion153bis less than the first bend allowance of the first-end portion153aat the flexible section156. Thus, the flexible section156of the first-end portion153ais configured to elongate due to the first bend allowance at the flexible section156, and the clamping mechanism150is configured to bend around the ball mount assembly200. As the second clamping force between the second-end portion153band the mounting base130is increased, the flexible section156of the first-end portion153ais configured to be in a state of tension such that the ball mount220is securely clamped by the bent clamping mechanism150.

Bend allowance relates to the amount of bending that may occur due to the compressive force applied via the fastener in the second through hole axis Y2of the clamping mechanism150used to clamp the ball mount220between the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150. Thus, the flexible section156of the first-end portion153abegins to bend at a lower compressive force applied via the fastener in the second through hole axis Y2than the second-end portion153b. The bend allowance of the first-end portion153aand the second-end portion153bare dependent upon the shape, material, and cross-sectional area of each respective portion.

FIG.17is a perspective view of a mounted ball mount assembly, according to an exemplary embodiment.FIG.18is a perspective view of a mounting base, according to theFIG.17exemplary embodiment.FIG.19is a perspective view of a clamping mechanism, according to theFIG.17exemplary embodiment.FIG.17illustrates a mounting base1130and clamping mechanism1150which are similar to those described above except that this embodiment accommodates two ball mounts220aand220bin one unified assembly (that is, in one fitting comprising two halves that are fastened together). This provides additional ranges of motion and degrees of freedom in a compact space. In this embodiment, the assembly includes cut-outs (described below) that increase the range of motion of the ball mounts. For example, inFIG.17the cut-outs allow the ball mount220ato be pivoted 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis (up and down inFIG.17) of the assembly.

FIG.18illustrates a mounting base1130comprising two mounting base contoured surfaces1133aand1133b, each surface configured to accommodate its own ball mount. The surfaces are connected by a body portion1135. First, second, and third mounting base through holes1131a,1131b, and1131care provided, with the first through hole being provided in a surface1134b, and the second and third through holes provided in a surface1134c.FIG.18also shows two cut-outs1132aand1132bwhich, together with cut-outs1154aand1154bdescribed below, increase the range of motion of the ball mounts by providing cut-outs to avoid interference between the ball mounts and the mounting base and clamping mechanism.

FIGS.19A and19Billustrate a clamping mechanism1150having first and second contoured surfaces1157aand1157b, each configured to accommodate a ball mount, and separated by a body portion1158. The mechanism1150has a tab1155d, a first-end portion1153, and second-end portion1157. The first-end portion1153has a flexible section1156that is similar to the design and function of the flexible sections discussed above. A first through hole1151apasses through a surface1155c, and second and third through holes1151b1151cpass through a surface1155a.

As described above, cut-outs1154aand1154b, together with cut-outs1132aand1132b, increase the range of motion of the ball mounts by providing cut-outs to avoid interference between the ball mounts and the mounting base and clamping mechanism.

FIG.20is a perspective view of a mounted ball mount assembly, according to another exemplary embodiment. This embodiment includes a mounting base1130′ and clamping mechanism1150′, joined together by four fasteners (not shown), and is similar to the embodiment ofFIGS.17-19, except that cut-outs are not provided. Both of these embodiments provide an arrangement which consists essentially of two members (a mounting base and a clamping mechanism) and fasteners and that can accommodate two ball mounts within one unitary fitting.FIG.20illustrates that one end (right side inFIG.20) of the mounting base1130′ is in direct contact with one end of the clamping mechanism1150′ and a gap1112is formed between another end (left side inFIG.20) of the mounting base and another end of the clamping mechanism when the mounting base is secured to the clamping mechanism by fasteners.

FIGS.21A-22Crelate to weight test results of a conventional clamping mechanism in a horizontal orientation and a vertical orientation and weight test results of the clamping mechanism150, as depicted inFIG.8A, in a horizontal orientation and a vertical orientation.

In the weight tests conducted on the clamping mechanism150, the horizontal orientation and the vertical orientation are defined by the orientation of the mating interface111formed between the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150. In the conventional clamping mechanism, a mating interface is not formed on either side of the conventional clamping mechanism. Rather, two gaps are formed between the conventional clamping mechanism and the mounting base130. As such, in the weight tests conducted on the conventional clamping mechanism, the horizontal orientation and the vertical orientation of the conventional clamping mechanism correspond to the direction in which the surfaces defining the gaps formed between the conventional clamping mechanism and the mounting base130extend.

The line graphs generated from the weight tests contain “Fail Point (lb)” data in the X-axis and “Torque Setting (in⋅lb)” data in the Y-Axis. The data corresponding to the “Fail Point (lb)” represents the point at which a ball mount assembly200, supported by a clamp and a base in a fixed configuration, is caused to slip when an external load is applied to an enclosure400attached to the ball mount assembly200. The data corresponding to the “Torque Setting (in⋅lb)” represents the torque applied by a torque wrench to fasteners in the conventional clamping mechanism or the clamping mechanism150.

In the tests conducted with respect to the conventional clamping mechanism, the Torque Setting corresponds to the torque applied to each of the fasteners (e.g., Comparative Example 1: a torque of 90 in⋅lb is applied to each fastener; the fail point is 55 lb.). In the tests conducted with respect to the clamping mechanism150, a fastener disposed in the second through hole151bof the clamping mechanism150is adjusted based on the Torque Setting, and the other fastener disposed in the first through hole151ais fixed at a constant torque of 80 inch-pounds (e.g., Example 1: a torque of 90 in⋅lb is applied to the fastener in the second through hole151band a torque of 80 in⋅lb is applied to the fastener in the first through hole151a; the fail point is 65 lb.).

The weight tests were conducted by first fixing the ball mount assembly200, having the enclosure400attached thereto, between the respective clamps and mounts in either the horizontal orientation or the vertical orientation. The clamps and mounts were fastened to each other at specified Torque Settings, as defined above, using an inch-pound torque wrench. Next, a crane scale mechanism having a first end and a second end is attached to the end of the enclosure400at the first end and fixed to the ground at the second end. The crane scale mechanism is configured to measure a downward force (weight) applied to the enclosure400. A series of incremental downward force tests were then applied to the enclosure400to determine the point at which the ball mount assembly200slips out of the initial fixed position due to the force applied to the enclosure400. The Fail Point corresponding to the Torque Setting in each of the weight tests discussed below were recorded at the moment the ball mount assembly200slipped out of the initial fixed position.

FIGS.21A-21Bare line graphs corresponding to the weight test of the conventional clamping mechanism and the weight test of the clamping mechanism150in horizontal orientations. Specifically,FIG.21Aillustrates Comparative Example 1 in which the conventional clamping mechanism is positioned in the horizontal orientation andFIG.21Billustrates Example 1 in which the clamping mechanism150is positioned in the horizontal orientation. The test data corresponding to Comparative Example 1 is illustrated below in TABLE 1 and the test data corresponding to Example 1 is illustrated below in TABLE 2.

When comparing the weight test results obtained from Comparative Example 1 related to the conventional clamping mechanism in the horizontal orientation to the weight test results obtained from Example 1 related to the clamping mechanism150in the horizontal orientation, it is evident that a greater amount of external force is able to be applied to the clamping mechanism150than the conventional clamping mechanism at each torque setting before the ball mount assembly200begins to slip. In other words, the clamping mechanism150is able to support a greater external load than the conventional clamping mechanism at each Torque Setting in the horizontal orientation.

Accordingly, the clamping mechanism150, having the flexible section156configured to bend toward the mounting base130and/or the ball mount assembly200, due to the high bend allowance and high elasticity, generates a greater frictional output force on the ball mount assembly200than the conventional clamping mechanism. The frictional output force corresponds to the force that is applied between the clamp and bracket assembly and the ball mount assembly200.

FIGS.22A-22Care line graphs corresponding to the weight test of the conventional clamping mechanism and the weight test of the clamping mechanism150in vertical orientations. Specifically,FIG.22Aillustrates Comparative Example 2 in which the conventional clamping mechanism is positioned in the vertical orientation;FIG.22Billustrates Example 2A in which the clamping mechanism150is positioned in the vertical orientation with the tab155in an upward position (“first vertical orientation”); andFIG.22Cillustrates Example 2B in which the clamping mechanism150is positioned in the vertical orientation with the tab155in a downward position (“second vertical orientation”). When the clamping mechanism150is oriented in the first vertical orientation the tab155is oriented opposite the direction in which the downward force (weight) is applied to the enclosure400. When the clamping mechanism150is oriented in the second vertical orientation the tab155is oriented in the direction in which the downward force (weight) is applied to the enclosure400. The test data corresponding to Comparative Example 2 is illustrated below in TABLE 3; the test data corresponding to Example 2A is illustrated below in TABLE 4; and the test data corresponding to Example 2B is illustrated below in TABLE 5.

When comparing the weight test results obtained from Comparative Example 2 related to the conventional clamping mechanism in the vertical orientation to the weight test results obtained from Examples 2A and 2B related to the clamping mechanism150in the vertical orientation, it is evident that a greater amount of external force is able to be applied to the clamping mechanism150than to the conventional clamping mechanism at each torque setting before the ball mount assembly200is caused to slip. In other words, the clamping mechanism150is able to support a greater external load than the conventional clamping mechanism at each Torque Setting in the vertical orientation. Accordingly, the clamping mechanism150in the first and second vertical orientations generate a greater frictional output force on the ball mount assembly200than the conventional clamping mechanism in the vertical configuration.

When comparing the weight test results obtained from Example 2A related to the clamping mechanism150in the first vertical orientation to the weight test results obtained from Example 2B related to the clamping mechanism150in the second vertical orientation, it is evident that a greater amount of external force is able to be applied to the clamping mechanism150with the tab155in the upward position than the clamping mechanism150with the tab155in the downward position at certain Torque Settings. For example, when the Torque Setting is set to 50 in⋅lb in Example 2A, the Fail Point is 95 lb. On the other hand, when the Torque Setting is set to 50 in⋅lb in Example 2B, the Fail Point is 90 lb. Accordingly, the clamping mechanism150in the first vertical orientation generates a greater frictional output force on the ball mount assembly200than the clamping mechanism150in the second vertical orientation at certain Torque Settings.

Method for Using the Mounted Ball Mount Assembly

Methods of using and adjusting the mounted ball mount assembly1A, the bracket assembly100, and/or the clamping mechanism150, as described above, are within the scope of the invention. For example, a method for adjustably clamping the ball mount220to the mounting base130and the clamping mechanism150may, in an exemplary embodiment, be performed using the mounted ball mount assembly1A having the bracket assembly100described above. The method will be described in the context of the mounted ball mount assembly1A having the clamping mechanism150; however, the method of the present invention is not so limited.

The following describes a method for adjustably clamping a ball mount220to a mounting base130according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method comprises providing the mounting base130comprising the mounting base contoured surface132, the first surface130ahaving a first mounting base through hole131a, and a second surface130bhaving the second mounting base through hole131b. The mounting base130can be the same type as described above. The method further comprises providing the clamping mechanism150comprising the first-end portion153a, the second-end portion153b, and the contoured surface152configured to cradle the body portion221of the ball mount220. The first-end portion153aincludes the tab155, the flexible section156, the first bottom surface150athat extends in a first plane, and the first through hole151aextending through the first bottom surface150a. The second-end portion153bincludes the second bottom surface150bthat extends in a second plane and the second through hole151bextending through the second bottom surface150b. The clamping mechanism150can be the same type as described above.

The method further comprises providing the ball mount220between the contoured surface152of the clamping mechanism150and the mounting base contoured surface132of the mounting base130such that the first through hole151aand the second through hole151bof the clamping mechanism150align with the first mounting base through hole131aand the second mounting base through hole131b, respectively. The ball mount220can be the same type as described above. The method further comprises securing the ball mount220in an adjustable position between the clamping mechanism150and the mounting base130such that the first surface130aof the mounting base130contacts the first bottom surface150aof the clamping mechanism at a mating interface111, and the second surface130bof the mounting base130is separated from the second bottom surface150bof the clamping mechanism150by the gap112.

The method for clamping the ball mount220to the mounting base130in a fixed position comprises fully fastening the second surface130bof the mounting base130to the second bottom surface150bof the clamping mechanism150such that the flexible section156of the clamping mechanism150is configured to elongate due to the first bend allowance at the flexible section156. The flexible section156is configured to elongate when the first-end portion153ais in a state of tension thereby causing the clamping mechanism150to be bent around the ball mount assembly220. When the clamping mechanism150is fully fastened at the first-end portion153aand the second-end portion153b, causing the flexible section156of the clamping mechanism150to be in a state of tension, the gap112become smaller, but remains, between the second surface130bof the mounting base130and the second bottom surface150bof the clamping mechanism150.

As utilized herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms generally mean +/−10% of the disclosed values, unless specified otherwise. As utilized herein with respect to structural features (e.g., to describe shape, size, orientation, direction, relative position, etc.), the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are meant to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, for example, the manufacturing or assembly process and are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES, and it should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

It should be noted that the term “exemplary,” “preferred,” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples). Moreover, the claims hereof are not to be read restrictively unless there is clear and convincing evidence manifesting a certain exclusion, restriction, or disclaimer.