HK1213171B - Equipment mounting system - Google Patents

Description

Equipment mounting system

Cross reference to related patent applications

This application claims priority to provisional application 61/763,045 filed on 11/2/2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to equipment mounting systems for mounting equipment of various configurations on a structure, and more particularly to track mounting systems for mounting equipment in a vehicle.

Background

The mounting apparatus and devices rely on a manufacturer's mounting location for securing to a third party structure. This may require individually adapting each component of the apparatus or device to be installed in a particular location, which may be time consuming and labor intensive. Furthermore, if it is desired to move a component of the apparatus or device, reinstalling the component of the apparatus or device in a new location will increase the amount of time and labor. Manufacturers may desire to add quick-install hardware to their equipment or devices in order to pay additional money by consumers, but the new hardware may not be compatible with other manufacturers' hardware.

This problem is compounded when a component of an apparatus or device is desired to be installed in a vehicle, such as an ambulance, helicopter, airplane, military vehicle, ATV, small van, and the like. The chatter that the fastening fastener must tolerate increases in static applications. Further, passengers of a transport vehicle may require that components of the equipment or device be relocated away from the service area without the need for tools.

Thus, alternative methods are needed to secure and easily reposition equipment or devices throughout and around a vehicle.

Disclosure of Invention

In one embodiment, a rail mounting system may comprise: a mount having a mounting plate with a back surface and a front surface, the back surface being opposite the front surface; and at least one mounting post coupled to the back surface of the mounting plate, each mounting post including a stem portion extending outwardly from the back surface and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the stem portion. The mount also includes a release mechanism coupled to the front surface to release the mount from the track. The track mounting system also includes an adapter coupled to the front surface of the mounting plate, wherein the adapter is releasably coupled with the equipment interface of the equipment component.

In another embodiment, an Intravenous (IV) bag set includes an IV hook mechanism and a track. The IV hook part mechanism comprises: a central shaft disposed along a central axis of the IV hook mechanism; a mounting head coupled to a proximal end of the central shaft; a pressure collar slidably disposed on the central shaft biased toward the mounting head by a release spring; and at least one hook pivotably coupled to the central shaft such that the hook is movable to a storage position and a use position. The track includes a backing plate having a plurality of slots, each slot being generally parallel to one another, each slot including a plurality of open regions and a plurality of necked down regions connecting the plurality of open regions, wherein the mounting head is slidably coupled with individual slots of the plurality of slots.

In another embodiment, the equipment rail mount has a rail with a rail side and an equipment side. The rail includes a plurality of mounting studs coupled to the rail, individual ones of the plurality of mounting studs including a rod portion extending outwardly from the rail side and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the respective rod portion, one or more threaded rods coupled to the equipment side. The guide rail further includes: a locking pin disposed through the rail and extending from the track side in the extended position; a lock biasing spring biasing the lock pin in the extended position; and a control knob coupled to the device side and operatively coupled to the locking pin, retracting the locking pin into the mounting plate when actuated, and allowing the locking biasing spring to bias the locking pin in the extended position when released.

In another embodiment, the track can include a backing plate having a central slot, a first outer slot and a second outer slot, the central slot including the backing plate, the first outer slot and the second outer slot including a plurality of open regions and a plurality of necked down regions connecting the plurality of open regions, and wherein every fourth open region is a target open region, wherein the target open region has a larger aperture than each open region.

In another embodiment, the quick mount track can include a backing plate having a central slot, a first outer slot and a second outer slot, the first outer slot and the second outer slot including a plurality of diamond-shaped profile target regions that allow the circular head of the T-shaped stud to engage the first outer slot and the second outer slot at an angle relative to the backing plate, the central slot having a plurality of locking pin apertures in the backing plate, the locking pin apertures being horizontally aligned with the plurality of diamond-shaped profile target regions.

The backing plate has a facing surface and a back surface, the facing surface opposite the back surface, the backing plate comprising: a first outer slot having a plurality of open regions and a plurality of necked down regions connecting the plurality of open regions; a second outer slot having a plurality of open regions and a plurality of necked down regions connecting the plurality of open regions; and a central slot having a plurality of locking pin apertures in the backing plate, the locking pin apertures being horizontally aligned with the plurality of open areas of the first and second outer slots. The backing plate further includes: a first trim tab along a first outer edge of the backing plate to support the first wall covering flush with a facing surface of the backing plate; and a second trim tab along a second outer edge of the backing plate to support the second wall covering flush with the facing surface of the backing plate. A support structure is coupled to the back surface of the backing plate to provide support for the wall assembly, wherein the wall assembly includes structure for supporting the first wall covering, the second wall covering, and the outer wall covering.

In another embodiment, a self-aligning mounting system may include a mounting plate and an equipment plate. The mounting plate may have a front surface and a back surface, the front surface being opposite the back surface. The first collar may be coupled to the front side and include a bowl aperture. The capture plate is coupled to the first collar and includes a keyhole slot aperture partially covering the bowl aperture, the bowl aperture and the keyhole slot aperture defining a landing area and a capture area, the landing area being defined where the keyhole slot aperture and the bowl aperture are approximately the same size, the capture area being defined where the keyhole slot aperture is smaller than the bowl aperture. A wedge release is coupled to the first collar, a wedge biasing spring is coupled between the first collar and the wedge release to bias the wedge release in a locked position, at least one mounting post is coupled to the back surface, each mounting post includes a rod portion extending outwardly from the back surface and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the rod portion, a locking pin release is coupled to the mounting plate. The locking pin release may include: a locking pin disposed through the mounting plate and extending outwardly from the back surface in an extended position; a spring biasing the locking pin in the extended position; and at least one locking pin release operatively coupled to the locking pin, retracting the locking pin into the mounting plate when actuated, and allowing the spring to bias the locking pin in the extended position when released. The wedge interface may include: a bowl comprising a plurality of catch guides; and a wedge coupled between the equipment plate and the bowl, wherein the bowl is matingly coupled with the bowl aperture, the wedge is slidably coupled with the keyhole slot aperture, the equipment interface is free to move relative to the adapter when the wedge release is in the unlocked position, and the catch plate is secured between the equipment plate and the plurality of catch guides when the wedge release is in the locked position.

These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood from the following detailed description, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

The embodiments shown in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary and are not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrated embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, where like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a track according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a track according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective rear view of a mount according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 4 illustrates an in-phase configuration of a track and a mounting plate according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 5 illustrates an out-of-phase configuration of a track and a mounting plate according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective front view of a front surface of another embodiment of a mount in accordance with one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 7 illustrates the internal workings of the release mechanism according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of a mount in accordance with one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a device interface in accordance with one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate a universal adapter according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 10C illustrates another embodiment of a device interface according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 11 illustrates a wedge mount of a self-aligning mounting system according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 12 illustrates a first collar of a wedge mount according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a wedge mount according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 14 illustrates a front view of a wedge interface according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of a wedge interface according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective view of a wedge interface according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

fig. 16B illustrates a bottom view of the wedge interface with the bowl removed according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 17 illustrates a folding tray in a use position according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 18 illustrates another perspective view of the folding tray in the use position according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of a swivel mount according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 20 illustrates another perspective view of a swivel mount according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 21 illustrates an overhead IV hook in a use position according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

fig. 22 illustrates an overhead IV hook in a storage position according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

23A and 23B illustrate an IV bag according to one or more embodiments shown and described hereinA wrap;

FIG. 24 illustrates an equipment rail mount according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 25 illustrates a retaining hook according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 26 illustrates an IV bag mount according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 27 shows a track having multiple target open areas and non-target open areas according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

28A and 28B illustrate a quick release track according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 29 illustrates a rail having a plurality of locking apertures according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 30 illustrates a track without a central slot in accordance with one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 31 illustrates a wall assembly incorporating a track according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 32 illustrates a plurality of wall components linked together according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

fig. 33 illustrates a cabinet for use on a wall according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

fig. 34 illustrates a back side of a cabinet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 35 illustrates a wall-mounted cabinet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 36 illustrates a vehicle cockpit according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 37 illustrates a wedge mount having a locking pin release that rotates about a central axis according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 38 illustrates another embodiment of a universal adapter in accordance with one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

fig. 39A and 39B illustrate a quick release clip according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein.

Detailed Description

The following text sets forth a broad description of numerous different embodiments of the invention. The description is to be construed as illustrative only and does not describe every possible embodiment since describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible, and it will be understood that any feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step or method described herein can be deleted, combined, or substituted in whole or in part for any feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step or method described herein. Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims.

Referring now to fig. 1 and 2, a track 10 for a track system or similar track system is shown. Although multiple tracks may be used, only one track 10 will be described, as multiple tracks of the same track system may have the same or substantially the same features. Further, the size, shape, and/or configuration of the track 10 may vary depending on the surface used for mounting and the size of the equipment to be mounted to the track 10. The rail 10 comprises a backing plate 15, which can have an elongated, rectangular shape (or any other suitable shape), and three slots extending along the backing plate 15 in any length. The three slots may be a first outer slot 20, a central slot 25 and a second outer slot 30. The slots are best shown in fig. 2 as T-shaped apertures extending along the length, or substantially the length, of the backing plate 15. The three slots are substantially parallel to each other. Each slot 20, 25 and 30 may have a series of enlarged open regions 35 adjacent to a necked region 40. In some embodiments, the enlarged open areas 35 are symmetrical such that they are equally spaced apart and aligned in rows in the width direction along the length of the backing plate 15. For example, the two open areas 35 in the first outer slot 20 and the two open areas 35 in the second outer region 30 may be spaced apart by about 127 millimeters (mm) (5 inches). A spacing of 127mm may span any number of open areas 35 in the slot (first outer slot 20 or second outer slot 30). To illustrate the flexible spacing, every third open area may be spaced 127 apart. In another example, each three open areas 35 may be spaced apart 127. A spacing of 127mm, for example, is merely exemplary, and any desired spacing of the open areas 25 may be employed. As another example, the enlarged open areas 35 of one or more slots 20, 25, and 30 may not all be equidistant and/or may not be aligned in rows with other enlarged open areas of other grooves.

The track 10 may include one or more mounting holes 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55 d. Mounting holes 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55d may be used to secure track 10 to a surface with a fastening device. Fastening means include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, rivets, nails, adhesives, Velcro, solder, epoxy or any similar means to mechanically connect or attach two or more objects together.

Fig. 3 is a perspective rear view of mount 50. The mount 50 may take on a variety of different shapes and sizes, as shown and described below. Mount 50 is the interface between the components of the device and the rail. The mount may have any number of mounting posts 140 that are affixed to the mount to support the components of the device or apparatus to which the mount is attached. More mounting studs may be attached to increase the load carrying capacity of mount 50. Mount 50 may include apertures to reduce the weight of mount 50. The mount 50 may further include

The mount 50 has a mounting plate 135, a back surface 165, a front surface 195, and four mounting posts 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140 d. Back surface 165 is on the opposite side of mount 50 from front surface 195. Mount 50 is operable to removably connect and/or attach to track 10 or a fixed location plate. Each mounting post 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d includes a respective rod portion 145a, 145b, 145c, and 145d and a respective enlarged head portion 150a, 150b, 150c, and 150 d. The locking pin 155 may be biased outwardly (e.g., by a spring, resilient material, or other biasing member) toward an extended locked position for engagement with the track of fig. 1, and more particularly toward a corresponding locking pin aperture on a fixed position plate, a locking pin aperture 900 found in fig. 9, or an enlarged open area 35 of one of the central slots 25 of the track 10. As an alternative to the locking pin 155 being engaged only with the central slot 25, the locking pin 155 may be positioned on the mounting plate 135 to engage the first outer slot 20, the second outer slot 25, or both. The locking pin 155 may be retracted, alone or in combination, using either the right locking pin release lever 160b or the left locking pin release lever 160a operatively connected with the release mechanism 190 of fig. 7. It should be appreciated that the two locking pin release levers 160a and/or 160b may be oriented in any direction to avoid interference with other equipment or devices and still allow the mount 50 to be released from the track 10. Furthermore, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to actuate two or more release levers in order to release mount 50 from track 10. Such embodiments may provide additional security by preventing undesired movement of the mounting plate 135 upon accidental actuation of one of the locking pin release levers 160a or 160 b. Any device and/or apparatus may be attached to front surface 195.

The mount 50 may be attached to the track 10 or a fixed location plate (not shown) with an interference fit, friction fit, or a locking pin 155 that engages the open area 35 or locking pin aperture 900 of fig. 9. For example, the mounting posts 140 may abut at a necked down portion of a keyhole slot (not shown) of the fixed position plate to attach the mount 50 to the fixed position plate. In another example, the locking pin 155 may apply a biasing force against the track 10 or fixed position plate for an interference fit between the mount 50 and the track 10 or fixed position plate. In another example, as described above, the locking pin 155 may be used to immobilize the mount 50 relative to the track 10 or fixed location plate by engaging the locking pin aperture 900 or the open area 35. It should be understood that the track 10 and/or fixed location plate are non-limiting examples of fixed mounts 50.

Referring to fig. 4, the track 10 and the mounting plate 135 illustrate an in-phase configuration for locking the mounting plate 135 to the track 10. Referring to fig. 4, when enlarged head portions 1515a, 1515b, 1515c and 1515d of mounting posts 1155a, 1155b, 1155c and 1155d of mounting plate 135 are inserted into enlarged head openings 1800a, 1800b, 1800c and 1800d of slots 1610 and 1620, locking pin 1500 is prevented from entering slot 1615 due to the alignment of the locking pin with necked down portion 1825 a. In some embodiments, placing enlarged head portions 1515a, 1515b, 1515c, and 1515d in slots 1610 and 1620 will cause locking pin 1500 to retract from its outwardly biased extended position.

Referring to fig. 5, the track 10 and mounting plate 135 are shown in an out-of-phase configuration. Shaft portions 1510 (not shown) of mounting posts 1155a, 1155b, 1155c, and 1155d are sized to slide over necked-down portions 1825 as enlarged head portions 1515a, 1515b, 1515c, and 1515d are retained in slots 1610 and 1620. Movement of the mounting plate 135 downward (or upward) in the direction of arrow 1100 aligns enlarged head portions 1515a, 1515b, 1515c and 1515d with necked down regions 1825b, 1825c, 1825d and 1825e of slots 1610 and 1620 and aligns locking pin 1500 with enlarged head opening 1800e of slot 1615. The locking pin 1500 may have a width greater than the upper and lower passages 1110, 1115 through the necked down regions 1825f, 1825g near the enlarged head opening 1800e, which prevents further movement of the mounting plate 135 as the locking pin 1500 passes through the enlarged head opening 1800e and into the slot 1615. In embodiments where locking pin 1500 is biased toward its extended position, locking pin 1500 may automatically snap into its extended position once locking pin 1500 is aligned with enlarged head opening 1800 e. The operator may retract the locking pin 1500 out of the slot 1615 by actuating either of the locking pin releases 1160/1175 described above, and cause the mounting plate 135 to again move to a different height along the track 10.

Although fig. 4 and 5 illustrate the mounting plate 135 secured to the track 10 using four mounting posts 1155a, 1155b, 1155c, and 1155d and a locking pin 1500, it should be understood that any other number of posts and locking pins may alternatively be used. Such an embodiment may allow for a fixed connection under increased load by providing more points of contact between the mounting plate 135 and the rail 10. In another embodiment, the mounting plate 135 may incorporate eight posts 1155 that are evenly distributed around the mounting plate 135. In another embodiment, any other number of posts 1155 may be provided on the mounting plate 125 to allow for releasable connection with the track 10. The enlarged head portion 1515 is sized to be received through the open region 1625 of the slot 1610, 1615, 1620 and captured after the necked region 1630 of the slot 1610, 1615, 1620, while the rod portion 1510 is sized to pass through the necked region 1630 of the slot 610, 115, 1620.

The fixed position plate is an alternative form of the track 10 of fig. 1. The mount 50 of fig. 3 is removably coupleable to a fixed position plate. The fixed position plate may include any suitable mounting structure or fastening means for securing it to a surface. Fastening means include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, rivets, nails, adhesives, Velcro, solder, epoxy or any similar means to mechanically connect or attach two or more objects together. In this exemplary embodiment, the fixed position plate incorporates four mounting holes to secure the fixed position plate to a surface. The fixed position plate also includes slots in the form of keyhole slots, each slot having an enlarged head opening and a necked-down portion. The enlarged head opening of the keyhole slot is sized and arranged to receive an enlarged head portion of the mounting post therethrough, and the necked-down portion is sized to allow the rod portion to slide therein with the enlarged head portion captured therein. Trapping of the enlarged head portion may be achieved by an interference fit between the mounting posts and the necked down portions of the first or central or second outer slots. A locking pin aperture may be provided that is sized to receive the locking pin when the locking pin is aligned with the locking pin aperture. The keyhole slot and the locking pin aperture are positioned as a mirror image of the mounting post of the mount.

Fig. 6 is a perspective front view of a front surface 195 of another embodiment of mount 50. The mounting plate 135 has device mounting holes 170a, 170b, 170c, and 170d that are used to attach the mounting plate 135 to a component of a device (not shown) by any of the fastening means listed above. Although FIG. 6 shows only four device mounting holes 170a, 170b, 170c, and 170d, any number of device mounting holes 170 of any configuration may be used to receive a device or apparatus to be mounted. Stud nuts 185a, 185b, 185c, and 185d are used to secure the mounting studs 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d to the mounting plate 135. The post nuts 185a, 185b, 185c, and 185d may be any fixing means, and are not limited to nuts. The release mechanism 190 is secured to the mounting plate 135 and has an internal actuator that pulls a locking pin (e.g., locking pin 155 as shown in fig. 7) in or out when one or both of the locking pin releases 160a and/or 160b are actuated. In another embodiment, the release mechanism 190 may include an actuator to actuate the locking pin 155 against the bias of a spring. An example of how the release mechanism 190 works can be seen in fig. 7. The components of the device are secured to the front surface 195 of the mounting plate 135.

FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of the internal workings of the release mechanism 190. The locking pin 155 is shown in an extended position and extends into the locking pin aperture 60 of the track 10. The track 10 may be the embodiment shown in fig. 28 a. The release mechanism 190 may be secured in the housing 715. The spring 720 provides a biasing force to extend the locking pin 155 in the extended position. The locking pin 1555 may include a lift pin 725 disposed through the center of the locking pin 155. The lift pin 725 may be configured to provide a mechanically neutral balance point for moving the locking pin 155 without tilting or snagging of the locking pin 155 within the housing 715.

The locking pin release 160 may be used to exert a force on the locking pin 155 and overcome the biasing force of the spring 720 to move the locking pin 155 from the extended position to the retracted position. The retracted position is a position where the distal end 710 of the locking pin 155 is flush with the back surface 165 of the mounting plate 135. The locking pin release 160 may have a ramp section 730 that exerts an upward force on the lift pin 725 to retract the locking pin 155 when the locking pin release 160 is moved toward the locking pin 155. In other words, when the locking pin release 160 is actuated, the locking pin 155 moves to the retracted position. The locking pin release 160 may include a return spring 735 to provide a biasing force for returning the locking pin release 160 to the locked position after actuation. The locked position is the position of the locking pin release 160 in which the mount 50 will be locked in place by the locking pin 155 engaging the locking pin aperture 60.

Fig. 7 also shows the engagement of the mounting posts 140 (i.e., 140a and 140b) with the first and second outer slots 20 and 30.

Referring generally to FIG. 8, the mount 50 may include an adapter, described in more detail below, that is coupled to a front surface 195 of the mounting plate 135. The adapter is releasably coupled with the equipment interface of the equipment component. The adapter allows a user to secure the mount 50 to the rail without the bulk and/or weight of the equipment components making the securing of the mount 50 difficult. In other words, mount 50 may be mounted directly to the equipment component, and engagement of mount 50 with rail 10 may be complicated by the size, shape, or other factors of the equipment component. The adapter is secured to the mount 50. As described above, the equipment interface is used to couple the equipment component to the adapter.

Fig. 8 shows another embodiment of a mount 50. In the exemplary embodiment, the adapter is a second mounting plate 225 that is attached to mounting plate 135. This embodiment allows an adapter (described below) or other device to be mounted to the track 10. The mounting plate 135 may have any number of mounting posts 140 required to secure the mount 50 to the track 10. If mount 50 is required to hold a heavy load, additional mounting posts 140 may be added to increase the load capacity of mount 50. In this embodiment, the mounting plate 135 has three post nuts 185a, 185b, and 185c that are used to secure the three mounting posts 140a, 140b, and 140c to the mounting plate 135. The three mounting posts 140a, 140b, and 140c may be of triangular configuration, as shown in fig. 8. Mounting posts 185b and 185c are disposed along a horizontal axis H and mounting post 185a is disposed along a vertical axis V. Midpoint M is a point along horizontal axis H and is equidistant between mounting posts 185b and 185 c. The vertical axis passes through the midpoint M. The mounting posts 185a are positioned to engage the open area 35 of the central slot 25 when the mounting posts 185b and 185c engage the open areas 35 of the second and first outer slots 30 and 20, respectively, of the track 10. The locking pin associated with the locking pin release 190 may also engage the open area 25 of the central slot 25. The stud nuts 185a, 185b, and 185c may be any fixing means, and are not limited to nuts. The release mechanism 190 is secured to the mounting plate 135 and has an internal actuator that pulls in or out a locking pin (e.g., locking pin 155 as shown in fig. 7) when one or both of the locking pin releases 160a or 160b are actuated. The second mounting plate 225 is secured to the front surface 195 of the mounting plate 135 using fasteners 230 that are threaded into the equipment mounting holes 170 (not shown). It should be understood that the use of fasteners 230, in the case of screws, is a non-limiting example of the type of hardware that can be used to attach second mounting plate 225 to mounting plate 135. Other illustrative examples of fasteners include, but are not limited to, bolt/nut combinations, cotter pins, rivets, and any other fastening mechanism. The second mounting plate 225 may include two key holes 220 disposed therethrough for mounting devices, apparatuses, adapters, and/or other items.

In one embodiment, the second mounting plate 225 may have a first surface 240 and a second surface 245, the first surface 240 being opposite the second surface 245. A second release mechanism (not shown) is coupled to the second surface 245. The second release mechanism is identical in operation and construction to the release mechanism 190 of fig. 7. The second release mechanism includes a second locking pin (not shown) disposed through the second mounting plate 225 and extending outwardly from the first surface 240 in the extended position. A second locking biasing spring (not shown) biasing the second locking pin 215 in the extended position and at least one second locking pin release (i.e., 210a and 210b) operatively coupled to the second locking pin 215, retracts the second locking pin 215 into the retracted position toward the second mounting plate 225 when actuated, and allows the second locking biasing spring to bias the second locking pin 215 in the extended position when released.

Fig. 9 illustrates an example of an equipment interface 172 for coupling with the adapter (i.e., second mounting plate 225) described above. The connection plate 980 may serve as a support structure for the equipment interface 172. The equipment mounting apertures 170a, 170b, 170c, and 170d may be used to secure equipment components to the equipment interface 172. Although four mounting apertures are shown, any number of mounting apertures may be used to properly secure the equipment components to the equipment interface 172. The connection plate may further include a locking pin aperture 905 disposed through the connection plate and at least one mounting post coupled with a back surface of the mounting plate, individual ones of the at least one mounting posts (i.e., 140a and 140b) including a rod portion extending outwardly from the connection surface 982 and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the respective rod portion. One or more mounting posts 140a and 140b slidably couple with individual ones of the at least one keyhole slot (i.e., 220 of fig. 8) to secure the connector plate 980 to the second mounting plate 225. When in the locked position, the second locking pin 215 engages the locking pin aperture 905 to limit relative movement between the connecting plate 980 and the second mounting plate 225.

In another embodiment of an apparatus interface for an adapter, the connection plate 980 may include two mounting posts 140a and 140b, a locking pin aperture 981 as described above, and a plurality of thumb screws. Thumb screws may be used to easily attach equipment components (not shown) without the need for separate mounting hardware, i.e., bolts, screws, etc. The thumb screw may be of any desired configuration that the device to be mounted may be used in.

In another embodiment of the equipment interface, the equipment interface may be used as an interface between two types of adapters. For example, the web 980 may have one or more mounting posts 140 on a first side and a locking pin aperture 981 and bowl-shaped adapter (described below) on a second side.

Another example of an equipment interface is a surface mount (not shown). The surface mount may be secured directly to the track 10 via the mount 50 or secured to the track 10 via the adapter described above. Surface mount 250 is secured to mount 50 via four fasteners 230. The surface mount has a shank to assist in removing the surface mount from the track when the locking pin release is actuated. The handle 265 also serves to hang IV bags, wrap wiring harnesses, or install additional equipment components. A plurality of holes are drilled in the body of the surface mount to reduce the weight of the overall unit, and the wiring harnesses and other devices are organized and secured by routing them through the plurality of holes. In this non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of holes are positioned and sized such that they will effectively reduce weight without weakening the structure of the body. A storage compartment is provided to hold electrical wires of equipment components mounted to the surface mount.

In another embodiment, if the surface mount is mounted directly to the mount, the surface mount does not serve as an equipment interface, but may include an adapter mounted to the body of the surface mount to secure the equipment component. The device component may incorporate the device interface, such as a tongue and groove interface. The equipment components, surface mount and mount will work as a unit. The mounting fastener attaches the mount to the surface mount.

In another example of an equipment interface, a Sequal Eclipse mount may be used to mount Sequaleclipse equipment components (not shown). Weight reduction holes are provided throughout the Sequal Eclipse mount to save weight and material. The restraining tab and the restraint serve to keep the Sequal Eclipse device from moving and secure the Sequal Eclipse device to the Sequal Eclipse mount. A pair of separate tie mounts are coupled to the tie to trap the Sequal Eclipse device in the Sequal Eclipse mounts. One of the tie-down mounts is attached to a tie-down bar that lifts the tie-down mount above the Sequal Eclipse apparatus. A harness retainer with an access window is positioned below the platform against which the Sequal Eclipse device rests. The wiring harness from the Sequal Eclipse device is stored in a harness holder and is accessible through an access window. A Sequal Eclipse fastener is shown which is used to secure a Sequal Eclipse device to a Sequal Eclipse mount. For example, six Sequal Eclipse fasteners may be used, but are not limited to six.

In another embodiment, the Sequal Eclipse mount does not serve as an equipment interface if it is mounted directly to the mount. The equipment components, the Sequal Eclipse mount and the mount will work as one unit. The mounting fasteners attach the mount to the Sequal Eclipse mount.

In another example of a device interface, a device holder may be used to hold a portable device that is not mounted to a mount/rail. Such as portable ultrasound machines, thermometers, calculators, etc., may be held in place by a device holder. The device holder includes a body having two holding tabs, two side walls, and a floor. The floor and the side walls retain the equipment components in the equipment holder. An aperture is centrally disposed in the bottom plate to facilitate weight reduction and to allow a wiring harness or other device to pass through the body. The two retention tabs restrain any upper lateral movement of the device components.

In another embodiment, the equipment holder does not serve as an equipment interface if the equipment holder is mounted directly to the mount. The equipment parts, equipment holder and mounting stock will work as one unit. In another embodiment, the mounting fasteners may be used to attach the device holder directly to the rail without the need for a mount. An example of this technique can be seen in fig. 22. The pull pin is biased into the holding position by a spring and a biasing frame. The pull pin has a head that can mimic the shape of a mounting post to allow the device holder to be secured to a track, or to a fixed location plate. The biasing frame may be used to provide a pressure surface to counteract the pressure exerted by the spring on the head 54 when the head is engaged with the track. The offset frame also provides an offset from the track so that pressure is not applied directly to the body of the device holder.

Turning now to the mounting posts, another embodiment may include a single rail post. A single rail stud is used to mount the equipment component to the rail 10 of fig. 1, which is mounted in a structure or vehicle. The single rail stud includes a mounting head, a retaining collar, and a collar. The mounting head is circular in shape with a threaded body extending from its center. The retaining collar and the friction collar are rotated onto the threaded body. The collar has a collar engaging surface. The mounting head has a mounting head engagement surface. When the mounting head is inserted into the track 10, the collar may be rotated in a clockwise direction to enable the collar engaging surface and the mounting head engaging surface to apply pressure to the track 10 to secure the single track post against movement on the track 10.

The single rail stud is a universal stud such that a single rail stud of various configurations can be positioned on the equipment component. The only limitation to these configurations is that the location of the single rail post must be aligned with the slot (i.e., 20, 25, 30) and open area 35 on the rail 10. When the single rail stud is secured to the equipment component, the retaining collar is rotated in a counterclockwise direction to apply pressure to the equipment component to ensure that the threaded body does not rotate away from the equipment component during use. A single rail post may include a spring to provide the biasing force required to apply pressure to the rail 10.

Fig. 10A and 10B illustrate another embodiment of an adapter that is a generic adapter 990. A receiving groove 2015 can allow the universal adaptor 990 to be slidably coupled with an equipment component or other item using the tongue 2026 of fig. 10C that corresponds to the receiving groove 2015. The receiving groove 2015 is defined by a plurality of guides 992a and 992 b. The plurality of grooves 992a and 992b matingly engage the tongue 2026 and simulate a tongue and groove coupling. Receiving device lock 2010 secures tongue 2026 to universal adapter 990. The receiving device release 2005 deactivates the receiving device lock 2010 when actuated as shown by arrow 2004 to allow the device component or tongue 2026 to slidably disengage from the universal adapter 990. The receiving locking pin 2020 may be biased outwardly (e.g., by a spring, resilient material, or other biasing member) toward an extended locking position for engagement with the associated track 10, and more particularly, toward the corresponding locking pin opening 60 on the track 10. The receiving locking pin 2020 may be retracted with the receiving mounting release 2000. A plurality of receiving posts 2025 may extend outwardly from one side of the universal adapter 990. The plurality of receiving posts 2025 may operate similarly to the mounting posts 140 of fig. 7 to secure the universal adapter 990 to the rail 10, fixed location board 130, or similar mounting surface. The lever 2000 actuates a cushioning function, as described below. The damping function is actuated along arrow 2002.

Fig. 10C illustrates another embodiment of a device interface 172. The equipment mounting apertures 170a, 170b, 170c, and 170d may be used to secure equipment components to the equipment interface 172. The tongue 2026 is configured to releasably couple with the receiving groove 2015 of fig. 10A.

Fig. 11 shows a wedge mount 47 of the self-aligning mounting system. The wedge mount includes a mounting plate 135, a back surface 165, a front surface 195, and four mounting posts 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d (not shown). Back surface 165 is on the opposite side of mount 50 from front surface 195. The first collar 53 is coupled to the back surface and includes a bowl aperture 54. The capture plate 56 is coupled to the first collar 53 and includes a keyhole slot aperture 57 that partially covers the bowl aperture 54. The keyhole slot aperture 57 has a narrow end 75 and a wide end 70. The bowl aperture 53 and keyhole slot aperture 57 define a landing area 58 and a capture area 59. The land areas 58 are defined where the keyhole slot apertures 57 and the bowl apertures 53 are approximately the same size and the catch areas 59 are defined where the keyhole slot apertures 57 are smaller than the bowl apertures 53. The wedge release 61 is coupled to the first collar 53 and a wedge biasing spring 102 (fig. 13) is coupled between the first collar 53 and the wedge release 61 to bias the wedge release 61 in the locked position. Coupled to front surface 195 is at least one mounting post (i.e., 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d), each including a rod portion extending outwardly from back surface 168 and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the rod portion. A locking pin release 160 is coupled to the mount 50, see fig. 7, and includes a locking pin 155 disposed through the mounting plate 135 and extending outwardly from the back surface 165 in the extended position. A spring 720 biases the locking pin 165 in the extended position, and at least one locking pin release 160 is operatively coupled to the locking pin 165 and, when actuated, retracts the locking pin 165 into the mounting plate 135 in a retracted position, allowing the spring 720 to bias the locking pin 165 in the extended position when released.

Referring to fig. 11 and 12, one or more fastening devices 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d may be used to secure the capture plate 56 and the first collar 43 to the mounting plate 135. The fastening devices 62a, 62b, 62c and 62d may also be used to secure the locking pin release 160 and associated parts to the mounting plate 135. Although four fastening devices 62a, 62b, 62c and 62d are shown, it should be understood that more or fewer fastening devices may be used. As shown, mount 50 is "X" shaped to help reduce weight and also to help view the engagement of one or more mounting posts 140 with the slots (20, 25, and 30) of track 10. The wedge mount 47 may be mounted as an adapter as described above rather than the structure associated with the second mounting plate 225.

Fig. 12 shows the first collar 53 of the wedge mount 47. The wedge release 61 has a blade 64 that serves to increase the surface area of the engagement surface 66. This increased area helps to maintain the wedge interface 72 (fig. 14) in the bowl aperture 54 and below the capture plate 56. The wedge release 61 pivots about pivot point 67. Referring back to fig. 11, wedge release 61 has a handle 68 to facilitate actuation of wedge release 61 between the unlocked and locked positions. The bowl aperture 54 has a plurality of guide walls 63 that serve to center the wedge interface 72 when the wedge interface is disposed in the bowl aperture 54. The guide wall 63 surrounds the bowl aperture 54 and may have any inclination to facilitate centering of the wedge interface 72.

Fig. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of wedge mount 47 taken all the way down the center of central slot 25 of fig. 1 of rail 10. Wedge interface 72 is shown seated in wedge mount 47 with wedge release 61 in the locked position. The wedge release 61 is biased into the locked position by a spring 102. The blade 64 engages an engagement groove 76 in the equipment plate 74 of the wedge interface 72. The pivot point 67 is shown with a pin 71 serving as a fulcrum. The handle 68 will be actuated in an upward direction along arrow T to actuate the wedge release 61 from the locked position to the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, referring to fig. 12, the blade is flush with the bottom surface 69 of the bowl aperture 54. Comparing fig. 12-13, the capture plate 56 provides a protective cover for the pivot point 67 of the wedge release 61. Mounting holes 55a and 55b are shown in the central slot 25 of the track 10, alternating with locking pin apertures 60a and 60 b. The wedge interface 72 may have one or more fastening apertures 73a, 73b, and 73c in the facilities plate 74.

Referring to fig. 13 and 7, fig. 13 is a view viewed perpendicularly to fig. 7. The locking pin 155 is shown in a retracted position in fig. 13, while the locking pin 155 is shown in an extended position in fig. 7.

Figure 14 illustrates a front view of the wedge interface 72. The wedge interface 72 can include a facilities plate 74, a bowl 77, a plurality of capture guides 78a and 78b, and a wedge 79. The equipment plate 74 provides a mounting point for securing the wedge interface 72 to an equipment component (not shown). The device plate 74 also provides one of two obstacles for capturing the keyhole slot apertures 57 of the capture plate 56, as shown in FIG. 11. Another obstacle is a plurality of trapping guides 78a and 78 b. The device plate 74 and the capture space 82 between the plurality of guides 78a and 78b are toleranced to allow the wedge interface 72 to slidably engage the capture plate 56 and not allow a significant amount of excessive movement between the wedge interface 72 and the capture plate 56. The wedge 79 is located between and couples the facilities plate 74 and the plurality of trap guides 78a and 78b together. The wedge 79 has a lead-in surface 83 configured to engage the keyhole slot aperture 57 and facilitate rotational alignment of the wedge interface 72 and the wedge mount 47. In other words, the lead-in surface 83 is configured to rotationally align the wedge interface 72 and the wedge mount 47 by ensuring that the lead-in surface 83 is the only portion of the wedge interface 72 that can enter into the capture area 59 of the keyhole slot aperture 57. Wedge 79 also includes a first inclined surface 84 and a second inclined surface 85. The first and second inclined surfaces 84 and 85 are opposite to each other and coupled to the introduction surface 83.

Fig. 15 is a side view of the wedge interface 72. The catch groove 76 is shown as a recess in the bowl 77. The inclination of the exit surface 87 follows the same inclination angle of the bowl 77. This inclination allows the bowl 77 to center the wedge interface 72 in the landing area 58 as shown in fig. 11.

A method of securing the apparatus component to the wall may include securing a medical device (not shown) to the wedge interface 72. The wedge interface 72 can include an equipment plate 74, a bowl 77 having a plurality of catch guides 78a and 78b, and a wedge 79 coupled between the equipment plate 74 and the bowl 77. The track 10, mini-track 12, or quick mount track 11 may be coupled to a wall (not shown) or other surface or structure. Mounting of wedge mount 47 to track 10 or 11 may be accomplished by aligning one or more mounting posts 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d on wedge mount 47 with one or more diamond-shaped contoured target areas 13 and slidably coupling wedge mount 47 to a locked position in which locking pin 155 engages locking pin aperture 60. Wedge mount 47 has a back surface 165 and a front surface 195. The wedge mount 47 includes a first collar 53 coupled to the front surface 195, includes a bowl aperture 54, a capture plate 56 coupled to the first collar 53, and includes a keyhole slot aperture 57 having a narrow end 75 and a wide end 70 partially covering the bowl aperture 54, the wide area 70 of the keyhole slot aperture 57 and the corresponding bowl aperture 54 defining a landing area 58, the narrow end 75 of the keyhole slot aperture 57 and the corresponding bowl aperture 54 defining a capture area 59. A wedge release 61 is coupled to the first collar 53. A wedge biasing spring (i.e., spring 102) is coupled between the first collar 53 and the wedge release 61 to bias the wedge release 61 in the locked position. At least one mounting post 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d is coupled to the back surface 165, and each mounting post 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d can include a rod portion extending outwardly from the back surface 165 and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the rod portion. Alignment of the wedge interface 72 with the wedge mount 47 is achieved by pressing the bowl 77 through the wide end 70 of the keyhole slot aperture 57 into the landing area 58 and into the bowl aperture 54, and allowing the plurality of guide walls 63 of the bowl aperture 54 to engage the plurality of sloped sides of the bowl 77 (forcing the wedge interface 72 into alignment with the wedge mount 47). Coupling of the equipment plate 74 with the wedge mount 47 is accomplished by slidably moving the wedges 79 of the equipment plate 74 into the capture area 59 at the narrow end 75 of the keyhole slot aperture 57 until the capture plate 56 is secured between the equipment plate 74 and the plurality of capture guides 78. Locking of the wedge interface 72 into the wedge mount 47 is achieved by a wedge biasing spring (i.e., spring 102) biasing the wedge release 61 in the locked position. Unlocking of the wedge interface 72 from the wedge mount 47 is accomplished by slidably moving the wedges 79 of the wedge interface 72 away from the narrow end 75 of the keyhole slot aperture 57 until the capture plate 56 is in the wide area 70 of the keyhole slot aperture 57, actuating the wedge release 61 into the unlocked position and disengaging the wedge interface 72 from the wedge mount 47. Removal of the wedge interface 72, and thus the equipment component, from the wedge mount 47 is accomplished by pulling the bowl 77 out of the bowl aperture 54. Note that it is not necessary to see the alignment of the bowl 77 and the landing zone 58. The sloped surface or side of the bowl 77 allows the wedge interface 72 to center itself and the equipment components in the landing area 58. The capture plate 56 also has a set of sloped surfaces surrounding the keyhole slot apertures 57 that further guide the bowl 77 into the landing area 58.

Figure 16a shows a perspective view of the wedge interface 72. One or more of the fastening apertures 73a, 73b, and 73c may have a taper or flange 89 to allow the fastening means described above to secure the wedge interface 72 to the equipment component.

Fig. 16b shows a bottom view of the wedge interface 72 with the bowl 77 removed. The first and second inclined surfaces 84, 85 provide an increase or decrease in the thickness of the wedge 79 when moving along the vertical axis V. The shape of the wedge 79 may generally match the shape of the keyhole slot aperture 57 in the capture area 59, as shown in fig. 11. Thus, when the wedge 79 is inserted into the capture area 59, the first or second inclined surface 84, 85 will first contact the keyhole slot aperture 57 and provide momentum to rotate the wedge interface 72 to align the wedge 79 with the narrow end 75 of the keyhole slot aperture 59. When the wedge interface 72 is seated and the wedge release 61 is in the locked position, the first and second inclined surfaces 84, 85 will contact both sides of the narrow end 75 of the keyhole slot aperture 57. The contact surface 81 will contact the bottom 69 of the bowl aperture 54. The exit surface 87 is wider than the lead-in surface 83 and wider than the narrow end 70 of the keyhole slot aperture 57.

Fig. 17 and 18 are perspective views of the folding tray 355. The folding tray 355 incorporates a tray 340 that is movable between a storage position parallel to the mounting plate 135 and a use position perpendicular to the mounting plate 135. The tray 340 may hold, secure, and/or support an item or device, such as a laptop computer. When in the use position, the tray 340 may position the device such that a user can operate the device. When in the storage position, the tray 340 is positioned so that itself and the equipment are oriented parallel to the mounting plate 135, and thus in a more compact position.

Fig. 17 and 18 show the folding tray 355 in the use position. The two sets of upper and lower arms 305, 310 are connected to upper and lower supports 345, 350 via a set of hinges 300. The upper arm 305 and the lower arm 310 are connected to the tray 340 via a set of hinges 300 and serve to support the tray 340 in a storage position and a use position. Left and right slots 325 are attached to upper portion 360 of tray 340 and are used in conjunction with a pair of cams 330 and a pair of cleats 320 to secure equipment component 370. The pair of cleats 320 is used to hold the equipment component 370 in place by the frictional fit between the pair of cleats 320 and the slot 325. The pair of cleats 320 also has a dynamic modulus that allows for absorption of vibrations transmitted through the folding tray 355. A set of locking tabs 315 are used to prevent the upper arm 305 and the lower arm 310 from moving from the storage position to the use position and vice versa. The guide element 335 is attached to the lower portion 365 of the tray 340. In this non-limiting embodiment, the guide element 335 is a rectangular member having an open slot 336 to allow insertion of a wiring harness or other item. The upper support 345 and the lower support 350 are secured to the mounting plate 135 of the mount 50 via four fasteners 230. In this non-limiting embodiment, the fasteners 230 are bolts used to secure the folding tray 355 to the mounting plate 135. By moving the hinge 300 to different adjustment apertures 308, the upper and lower supports 345 and 350, respectively, may be adjusted to allow the tray 340 to have different angles from perpendicular to the mounting plate 135.

The mounting plate 135 may have a plurality of attached equipment interfaces, as well as a mounting post and locking pin 155 as shown in fig. 3. In fig. 18, wedge interface 72 is shown coupled to a mounting plate 135 for releasably coupling with wedge mount 47 as shown in fig. 11.

Fig. 19 and 20 are perspective views of the swivel mount 420. The swivel mount 420 includes a swivel body 405 and a swivel frame 410. The rotating frame 410 is attached to the mounting plate 135 of the mount 50. The rotating frame 410 is connected to the rotating body 415 by two hinges, an upper hinge 380 and a lower hinge 385, axially aligned along the longitudinal axis. The upper and lower hinges 380, 385 may allow the swivel body 405 to rotate up to 360 degrees about the longitudinal axis in the swivel frame 410. The swivel body 405 may be locked against rotation via the lock body 415. The lock body 415 is a friction lock and includes a threaded rod (not shown) that applies friction to the lower hinge 385 when the lock handle 390 is rotated. When friction is applied to the lower hinge 385, the rotating body 405 remains in place in an angular position relative to the rotating frame 410, such that the rotating body 405 can be locked in any angular position about the longitudinal axis. Four swivel mounting holes 400 are located in swivel body 405. The swivel mounting holes 400 are used to secure the equipment component 425 to the swivel body 410 via any fastening means 430, such as those described herein.

Fig. 21 shows the overhead IV hook 650 in the use position. The overhead IV hook 650 has two IV hooks 655. They are connected to the central shaft 670 via a locking hinge 665. The locking hinge can lock the two IV hooks 655 in the use position or the storage position, as shown in fig. 21B. The locking hinge locks by a ball bearing biased into a recess in the rotating element of the hinge, or by a tight fit within the hinge that causes friction, to maintain the current position of the overhead IV hook 650. Release spring 660, collar 615, and central shaft 670 are coaxially aligned along vertical axis V. A release spring 660 is biased between the locking hinge 665 and the collar 615. The central shaft 670 is connected to the mounting head 620. The overhead IV hook 650 presses against the rail (e.g., rail 10, fig. 1) and aligns with one of the mounting holes on the rail (e.g., mounting hole 35, fig. 1). When the overhead IV hook 650 is pressed against the rail, the collar 615 compresses the release spring 600, the mounting head 620 extends into the mounting hole, and the overhead IV hook 650 slides down into the necked-down portion (not shown) and is released. The collar engagement surface 625 and mounting head engagement surface 630 grip the rail and secure the overhead IV hook 650 in place.

Fig. 22 shows the overhead IV hook 650 in a storage position, e.g., the IV hook 655 rotated to a position parallel to the mounting plate (not shown). The locking hinge 665 maintains the storage position until moved to the use position (fig. 21). In another embodiment, the IV hook 655 may be a utility hook, a cinch ring, a wedge, a metal loop, or a hook and loop fastener.

FIGS. 23A and 23B show an IV bagA wrap 675 having a strap mount 680 and a strap 685. The strap 685 is threaded through the two loop holes 800 to attach the strap 685 to the bracket 680. The strap mount 680 may include a shaft aperture disposed through the strap mount 680, at least one strap loop aperture 683, and a plurality of pressure arms 686 that are substantially parallel to each other. The second mounting head 620 is coupled to the distal side of the second shaft 682And an end portion. The protruding head 621 is coupled at a proximal end of a second shaft 682, the second shaft 682 passing through the shaft aperture. A second biasing spring 622 is coupled between the protruding head 621 and the strap mount 680, the second biasing spring 622 biasing the second mounting head 620 against the strap mount 680. The strap 685 is coupled by at least one strap loop aperture 683 and is used to secure an IV bag (not shown) wherein the second release spring 622 is compressed by actuating the protruding head 621 toward the strap mount 680, which will extend the second mounting head 620 beyond the plurality of pressure arms 686 and allow the IV bag to be securedThe wrap slidably engages a slot (20, 25 and/or 30) on the track 10.

The strap 685 may be made of any type of flexible material, including leather, cord (natural or synthetic), plastic products such as polymers, vinyl, or rubber, and metal products such as thin aluminum strips. The strap 685 is wrapped around itself and secured with the securing strap 690. In a preferred embodiment, the securing strip 690 may be a hook and loop (e.g.,) And may be other types of fasteners such as buttons, snaps, etc. IV bag partThe wrap 675 is used in conjunction with or without the overhead IV hook found in fig. 21 and 22. IV bag partThe wrap serves to secure the IV bag (not shown) against loose hanging. The IV hook 650 may be part of a kit including the track 10 of fig. 1, the mini-track 12 of fig. 38, or the quick-mount track 11 of fig. 28, an IV bagA wrap 675 and an IV hook 650.

Fig. 24 illustrates an equipment rail mount 1700 that includes a rail 1720 having a rail side 1701 and an equipment side 1702, a plurality of mounting posts 140a and 140b coupled with the rail 1720. Individual ones of the plurality of mounting studs 140a and 140b may include a rod portion extending outwardly from the rail side 1701 and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the respective rod portion. One or more threaded rods 1710a and 1710b are coupled to the equipment side 1702, and a locking pin 155 is disposed through the rail 1720 and extends outward from the track side 1701 in an extended position. A lock biasing spring (not shown) is used to bias the locking pin 155 in the extended position. A control knob 1715 is coupled to the apparatus side 1702 and operatively coupled to the locking pin 155, retracts the locking pin 155 into the rail 1720 when actuated, and allows the locking biasing spring to bias the locking pin 155 in the extended position when released.

The equipment rail mount 1700 is a universal mount that can be used on a variety of equipment for securing them to a rail system. The equipment rail mount 1700 has two mounting posts 140a and 140b that are positioned on the rail 1720 to engage the first and second outer slots 20 and 30 of the rail 10 of fig. 1, the mini-rail 12 of fig. 38, or the quick mount rail 11 of fig. 28A. Alternatively, each mounting post 140a and 140b is evenly spaced apart to enable the equipment rail mount 1700 to be secured vertically or horizontally on the track 10, the mini-track 12, or the quick mount track 11. In a preferred embodiment, stud 1710 is threaded. Attachment points 1725 are areas of rail 1720 where attachment of equipment components (not shown) is accomplished by conventional means including screws, bolts, posts, glue, posts, and cotter pins or rivets. In a preferred embodiment, stud 1710 is a threaded stud to allow the equipment component to be secured to single rail mount 700 by a nut.

Fig. 25 shows a retaining hook 760 and an equipment rail mount 1700. The support plate 750 is attached to the device track mount 1700 by screws 755a and 755 b. The retention hook 760 comprises a hook 770 and a bracket 775 to capture and support the weight of an IV bag (not shown) or a line of material, such as a handle or cord of a bag. The retaining clip 765 serves to ensure that the IV bag does not slip off the hook 700 and is hingedly coupled at the base 771 of the hook 770. Retaining hook 750 can hang any item that has a loop of the correct size to slide over hook 700 and fit under retaining clip 765 and into bracket 775.

In another embodiment, a dual mounting plate (not shown) may be coupled to screws 1710a and 1710b of the equipment track mount 1700. The dual mounting plate may be a plate material that positions two or more retaining hooks 760 side-by-side. This will allow more than one item to be hung or, alternatively, allow one weight to be hung by passing a line of material through both hooks.

In another embodiment, a task light or light assembly may be secured to the equipment rail mount 1700 and used to provide illumination in the enclosed area. The task light is attached to the light assembly mount via a clip and post (not shown) that is inserted into a flexible neck of the task light or light assembly. The light assembly mount is attached to the equipment rail mount with two nuts on screws 1710a and 1710 b. Task light embodiments are not limited to lamps. The flexible neck may allow for attachment of other instruments besides a lamp, such as a magnifying glass, a flashlight, a mirror, a reflector, or a clip or claw to hold another instrument.

Fig. 26 shows an IV bag mount 780 having a retaining hook 750 at the top of the bar 805. The bar 805 may be attached to an IV bagA carrier 680 of a wrap 675 as shown in figure 23. The rod may be attached to the equipment rail mount 700. An IV bag (not shown) is suspended from the holding hook 750 and secured relative to the bar 805 via a strap 685 and a securing strap 690, the strap passing through the two loop holes 800.

Fig. 27 shows a track 10 having a plurality of target open areas 900 and non-target open areas 902. The first and second outer slots 20, 30 may include a target open area 900 to receive the mounting post 140 of fig. 3 or a similar post, such as the second mounting head 620 of fig. 21. In some embodiments, target open area 900 allows mount 50 with attached equipment components to be slidably coupled with track 10 without needing to see the alignment of mounting stud 140 with open area 35 of fig. 1. The larger diameter and/or size of the target open area 900 than the non-target open area 902 allows for greater variability in the orientation of the mount 50 relative to the rail 10, while still enabling proper alignment between the rail 10 and the mount 50. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the track 10 may not include the non-target open area 902. It may simply comprise a number of target opening areas 900 along the rails 20 and 30 and a necked area extending between the number of target opening areas 900. Fig. 28A and 28B show an example of this embodiment.

Fig. 28A and 28B show the quick-mount rail 11. The quick mount track 11 includes a backing plate 15 having a central slot 25, a first outer slot 20 and a second outer slot 30. The first and second outer slots 20, 30 include a plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target regions 13 that allow the circular head of the T-shaped stud or mounting stud 140 of fig. 3 to engage the first and second outer slots 20, 30 at an angle relative to the backing plate 15. The central slot 25 has a plurality of locking pin apertures 60 (e.g., 60a and 60b) in the backing plate 15. The locking pin apertures 60 are horizontally aligned with the plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target areas 13. The plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target areas 13 allow the mount 50 of fig. 3 to be mounted to the quick mount track 11 with a degree of misalignment (which may be due to being out of sight) and align the mount 50 with the open area 35 of the track 10 of fig. 1. Mount 50 may be slightly rotated relative to quick mount track 11 and mounting post 140 will still engage the plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target areas 13. When mounting posts 140 are inserted into the plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target areas 13, mounts 50 will be aligned parallel to quick mount track 11. In other words, the plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target areas 13 allow for some rotation in the mount 50 and the first and second outer slots 20, 30 can still be successfully engaged.

Further, the plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target regions 13 will allow the mount 50 to be inserted into the quick mount track 11 at an angle relative to the backing plate 15. In other words, a user may first insert mounting posts 140a and 140b into first outer slot 20 before mount 50 is swung or aligned such that mounting posts 140c and 140d engage second outer slot 30. This functionality allows a user to install heavier or bulky equipment components, requiring the assistance of a second user, and allows the mount 54 to have some misalignment (both rotational and angular) with respect to the backing plate 15. Backing plate 15 may also have a plurality of mounting locations 17 to allow a fastening device to secure quick mount track 11 to a surface, wall, or structure.

Fig. 29 shows a rail 10 having a plurality of locking holes 905. The central slot 25 as shown in fig. 1 may be replaced with a plurality of locking holes 905 to allow the locking pin 155 of fig. 3 to slidably engage a single locking hole 905 to secure the mount 50 to the track 10. In some embodiments, the first outer slot 20 and the second outer slot 30 may have multiple target open areas 900, but they do not require multiple diamond-shaped contoured target areas 13 as shown in fig. 28A and 28B.

Fig. 30 shows the track 10 as shown in fig. 1 without the central slot 25. The first outer slot 20 and the second outer slot 30 may have multiple target open areas 900, but they need not have multiple diamond-shaped contoured target areas 13 as shown in fig. 27, or as shown in fig. 28A and 28B. The flat surface 910 allows the locking pin 155 of fig. 7 to apply a biasing force to the flat surface to create an interference fit between the mounting post 140 and the necked down regions 40 of the first and second outer slots 20, 30. The biasing force applies a force to separate the mount 50 from the rail 10. The interference or friction fit of the mounting stud 140 against the slots (20, 25 and 30) is a fastening means to secure the two components by friction after the components are pushed together. In addition, the dampening function shown in fig. 37 below may also provide the force required to secure mount 50 to rail 10 of fig. 30.

Fig. 31 shows a wall assembly 2050 in combination with the track 10 of fig. 1, the mini-track 12 of fig. 38, or the quick-mount track 11 of fig. 28. The rail 10 may include a plurality of protrusions 2070a and 2070 b. The plurality of tabs 2070a and 2070b are shown as extending along the long dimension of the rail 10, but it should be understood that the plurality of tabs 2070a and 2070b may also extend along the short dimension of the rail 10. The plurality of protrusions 2070a and 2070b may support the wall covering 2055 and maintain the wall covering 2055 flush with the facing surface 2078 of the backing plate 15. The wall covering 2055 may be made of any material and may be fastened to the plurality of tabs 2070a and 2070b by welding, adhesive bonding or the fastening means described above. The outer wall covering 2060 may also be made of any material and may be secured to the support structure 2080 by welding, adhesives, or the securing means described above. The support structure 2080 is coupled to the backing plate 15 and provides strength and rigidity to support the backing plate 15, the wall covering 2055, and the outer wall covering 2060. The support structure 2080 may also be part of the frame of the larger wall assembly 2050. The first outer channel 2071, the central channel 2072 and the second outer channel 2073 may be part of the support structure 2080 and provide conduits for wires, tubing and other services that may be provided by the wall assembly 2050.

The backing plate 15 has a facing surface 2078 and a back surface, the facing surface being opposite the back surface. The backing plate 15 includes: a first outer slot 20 having a plurality of open regions and a plurality of necked down regions connecting the plurality of open regions; a second outer slot 30 having a plurality of open regions and a plurality of necked down regions connecting the plurality of open regions; and a central slot 25 having a plurality of locking pin apertures in the backing plate that are horizontally aligned with the plurality of open areas of the first and second outer slots 20, 25. The backing plate 15 further includes: a first trim tab 2070a along a first outer edge of the backing plate 15 to support the first wall covering 2055 flush with the facing surface 2078 of the backing plate 15; a second trim tab 2070b along a second outer edge of the backing plate 15 to support the second wall covering 2055b of fig. 32 flush with the facing surface 2078 of the backing plate 15. A support structure 2080 is coupled to the back surface of the backing plate 15 to provide support for the wall assembly 2050, wherein the wall assembly 2050 includes structure for supporting the first wall covering 2055, the second wall covering, and the outer wall covering 2060.

Fig. 32 shows wall 2040. The tracks 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, and 10e may be spaced at any desired spacing along the wall 2040 depending on the type and number of equipment components to be mounted to the wall 2040. The wall includes a plurality of wall assemblies 2050 that are linked together. Wall coverings 2055a, 2055b, 2055c, 2055d, 2055e, and 2044f couple the rails 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, and 10e together. It should be noted that wall coverings 2055a, 2055b, 2055c, 2055d, 2055e, and 2044f may provide structural support for rails 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, and 10e, which do not require a foundation for supporting wall 2040 as does structural supports 2080a, 2080b, 2080c, 2080d, and 2080 e.

Fig. 33 shows a cabinet 2100 for use on the wall 2040 of fig. 32. The cabinet 2100 may be used to store items along the wall 2040.

Fig. 34 shows a back side 2105 of the cabinet 2100. Multiple keyholes 2108a, 2108b, 2108c, and 2108d may be used to engage a single rail stud, as described above in connection with fig. 9. The single rail posts may be positioned anywhere along the rails 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, and 10e of fig. 32 as long as they are positioned to engage the plurality of keyholes 2108a, 2108b, 2108c, and 2108d on the back side 2105 of the cabinet 2100.

As described above, mount 50 of fig. 3, adapter of fig. 8, wedge mount 47 of fig. 11 may be used to secure cabinet 2100 or housing 2110 of fig. 36 to rail 10.

Fig. 35 shows a cabinet 2100 mounted to the wall 2040 of fig. 32. In this embodiment, the tracks 10a and 10b are spaced apart to allow a single track post or the like to engage a plurality of keyholes 2108a, 2108b, 2108c and 2108d on the back side 2105 of the cabinet 2100, as shown in fig. 34. Wall coverings 2055a, 2055b, and 2055c provide flush surfaces for wall 2040 and cabinet 2100.

Fig. 36 shows a vehicle cockpit 2200. In this embodiment, support structure 2080 provides a frame for vehicle cockpit 2200. Cross members 2081 are added between support structures 2080 to add additional strength and rigidity to vehicle cockpit 2200. The support structure is coupled to the rails 10 as shown in fig. 31, with a wall covering 2055 spanning the distance between each rail 10 to provide a flush inner surface for the vehicle cockpit 2200. Cabinet 2100 is shown attached to rail 10, as is housing 2110. The housing may also include a plurality of keyholes on its back side and be mounted to rails in a similar manner to cabinet 2100.

While being a vehicle cockpit 2200, it should be understood that any wall closure may be incorporated with the wall assembly 2050 of fig. 31. Further, the tracks 10 are shown as being vertical in the vehicle cockpit 2200, however they could also extend horizontally and use cross members 2081 instead of support structures 2080. An outer wall covering 2060 may also be used to cover the vehicle cockpit 2200.

Referring to fig. 3, 10B, 11 and 37, in one embodiment, the locking pin releases 160a and 160B and the wedge release 61 may include a cushioning function. The cushioning function allows the locking pin releases 160a and 160b and the wedge release 61 to take up any slack between the mount 50 and the rail 10. To facilitate installation and removal between the mount 50 and the rail, the tolerances between the mounting post 140 and the slots (20, 25, and 30) are loose or not very tight. Thus, when installed, the mount 50 may rock or rock on the track 10, the mini-track 12 or the quick mount track 11. The cushioning function uses a plunger (2020 of fig. 10B) to apply pressure between the mount 50 and the rail 10, or it retracts the mounting post 140 into the mounting plate 135, to take up loose tolerances between the mount 50 and the rail 10.

Referring now to fig. 37, wedge mount 47 is shown with locking pin releases 160a and 160b (160) which are a single unit and rotate about a central axis. The locking pin release 160 has a locking position 133 and an unlocking position 131. In the unlocked position 131, the locking pin release 160 is free to actuate toward or away from the track 10 to release the mount 50 from the track 10, as described above. In the locking position 133, the stop 128 prevents movement of the locking pin release 160 toward or away from. When the locking pin release 160 is actuated (rotated) from the unlocked position 131 to the locked position 133, a cam (not shown) presses a plunger (not shown) against the track 10 to take up loose tolerances between the mount 50 and the track 10, or it retracts the mounting post into the mounting plate 135, as described above for the damping function.

Further, in another embodiment, the blade 64 has a different shape than the blade 64 of FIG. 12, as does the engagement surface 66. The narrower shape of the blade portion 64 and engagement surface 66 of fig. 37 enables the wedge release 61 to absorb more shock loads without breaking and conforming to a narrower wedge interface (not shown).

FIG. 38 illustrates another embodiment of the universal adapter 990 of FIGS. 10A and 10B. A plurality of keyhole slot apertures 2012a, 2012b, and 2012c are shown to receive the device mount 172 (not shown), with different embodiments of the device mount 172 being described above. Receiving device release 2005 releases device mount 172 from universal adaptor 990 via a set of release pins (not shown) in the cavity of each of the plurality of keyhole slot apertures 2012a, 2012b and 2012 c. The paddle latch 2011 actuates the pull out pin 2013 to release the universal adapter 990 from the miniature track 12. The pull-out pin 2013 operates similarly to the locking pin 155 of fig. 3.

The compact track 12 is another embodiment of the track 10 of fig. 1. The small track 12 enables a small load to be mounted to a surface, wall or structure.

Fig. 39A and 39B show a quick release clip 3000. The quick release clip 300 has an eyelet structure 2005 with an eyelet aperture 3003. The eyelet aperture 3003 may allow a line of material to hang from the quick release clip 3000, with a latch, clip cord or similar material, carabiner, or the like coupled with the quick release clip 3000. If two mounting uprights are in the abutting open area 35 of the track 10 of fig. 1, then the foot structure 3008 mimics the footprint of the two mounting uprights 140 of fig. 3. The clip pin 3025 is biased toward the foot structure 3008 and mimics the locking pin 155. The handle 3020 enables the clip pin 3025 to disengage the foot structure 3008 to release the quick release clip 3000 from the track 10. A plurality of notches 3015a and 3015b allow the clip pin 3025 to lock the quick release clip 3000 between the two necked down regions 40. In other words, when the quick release clip 3000 is in the out-of-phase position (see fig. 5), the adjoining necked-down region 40 occupies the plurality of notches 3015a and 3015 b. The clip pin 3025 includes two sides of the clip pins 3025a and 3025b and two sides of the shanks 3020a and 3020b, all of which move together as one part.

When the quick release clip 3000 is inserted into the track 10 in an in-phase configuration, the clip pin 3025 contacts the facing surface of the track 10 and does not occupy the open area 35. The quick release clip 3000 is slid into an out of phase configuration and the clip pin 3025 is biased to extend into the open area 35, thereby locking the quick release clip 3000 to the track 10.

It should be understood that the mounting post 140, when used by an application, may be replaced with a tongue 180 to allow for different mounting configurations to be used between all embodiments. The dimensions and orientation of the rails 10 and the mold plates 105 may vary depending on the application. The number of mounting posts 140 or track slots 20, 25, 30 may also vary depending on the application and load considerations. Furthermore, all embodiments described herein, including, for example, rail 10, fixed position mount 130, mount 50, may be made of aluminum, steel, plastic, rubber, casting, or the like.

It should also be appreciated that the track system may be modular, wherein multiple components of the track system may be interchangeable, which may reduce assembly time, complexity, and cost. Such modularity in the track system may allow for a faster and more fluid response to a particular situation, which may enhance the effectiveness in certain situations. The track system configuration allows it to be used with a variety of different vehicles and/or other equipment, thereby providing the advantages of interchangeability and flexibility. Another advantage of the track systems described herein is that they allow a user to install, remove and/or reconfigure one or more components of the device with minimal or no need to see, since the track systems can be used with only tactile sensing (i.e., only by feel).

It should also be understood that the track 10, mini-track 12 and quick mount track 11 may be scaled to accommodate mounting posts of different sizes and different configurations. For example, the standard size may be a 19.05mm (3/4 inches) hole (open area 35 of FIG. 1) on the center of 25.4mm (1 inch). The track 10, mini-track 12 or quick mount track 11 may be enlarged to a 38.1mm (1.5 inch) hole on the center of 50.8mm (2 inches). Alternatively, the track 10, mini-track 12 or quick mount track 11 may be reduced to a 9.5mm (3/8 inch) hole on the center of 12.7mm (1/2 inches), which would correspond to the mini-track 12 of fig. 38.

In some embodiments, printed or painted markings and/or tactile markings (e.g., position indicators) may be used with the track system. For example, the position indicator may be placed beside the track 10 or even on the track 10. In some embodiments, markers may be placed on track 10 to allow antenna mount 100 to be adjusted quickly with minimal or no visibility. The markers may be located on track 10 or on military vehicle 300.

The rail system may be made of any sufficiently strong material. It may be made of one piece of material or of a casting. The openings in the posts and rails on the mounting plate may be increased or decreased depending on the desired mounting strength required by the equipment and materials used in the manufacture of the system.

It should be understood that the system does not require tools to mount the equipment components to the vehicle or other equipment. As mentioned above, ease of use and installation will allow installation of equipment components in day or night operations. The rail system is designed so that the quick release can be found in the dark and the equipment components can be moved or removed in few to zero lighting conditions.

It is noted that the terms "substantially" and "approximately" may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

Certain terminology is used in the present disclosure for convenience only and is not limiting. The words "left", "right", "front", "rear", "upper" and "lower" designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The terminology includes the words above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, these aspects need not be used in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims (18)

1. An equipment mount comprising a mounting plate, a first collar, a capture plate, a wedge release, at least one mounting post, and a release mechanism, wherein:

the mounting plate includes a front surface and a back surface, wherein the front surface is opposite the back surface;

a first collar is coupled to the front side of the mounting plate and includes a bowl aperture;

a capture plate coupled to the first collar and including a keyhole slot aperture having a wide end and a narrow end, the keyhole slot aperture longitudinally aligned with the bowl aperture such that the narrow end partially covers the bowl aperture;

the wedge release includes a wedge biasing spring and is coupled to the first collar;

a wedge biasing spring coupled between the first collar and the wedge release to bias the wedge release in the locked position;

the mounting posts are coupled to the back surface of the mounting plate, each mounting post including a stem portion extending outwardly from the back surface of the mounting plate and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the stem portion; and is

The release mechanism is coupled to the mounting plate and includes:

a locking pin disposed through the mounting plate and extending outwardly from the back surface in an extended position,

a spring biasing the locking pin in the extended position, an

At least one locking pin release operatively coupled to the locking pin to move the locking pin between the retracted position and the extended position.

2. The equipment mount of claim 1, wherein the equipment mount comprises a wedge interface comprising an equipment plate, a bowl, and a wedge, wherein:

the bowl includes a plurality of catch guides on opposite sides of the bowl; and is

The wedge is coupled between the equipment plate and the bowl and includes a lead-in surface and two inclined surfaces to facilitate alignment of the wedge with the narrow end of the keyhole slot aperture when the wedge is slidably coupled with the keyhole slot aperture of the capture plate.

3. The equipment mount of claim 2, wherein the bowl includes a catch groove and the wedge release includes a blade, wherein:

when the wedge release is in the unlocked position, the blade is flush with the bottom surface of the bowl aperture, and

the blade is not flush with a bottom surface of the bowl aperture when the wedge release is in the locked position, and the blade is positioned to engage the catch groove of the bowl to limit movement of the wedge interface relative to the equipment mount when the bowl is inserted into the bowl aperture.

4. The equipment mount of claim 2, wherein the bowl aperture comprises a plurality of guide walls and the bowl comprises a plurality of sides, the plurality of guide walls guiding the equipment plate into alignment with the equipment mount when the plurality of sides are in contact with the plurality of guide walls.

5. The equipment mount of claim 2, wherein the wedge interface is coupled to a medical device.

6. The equipment mount of claim 2, wherein alignment of the bowl with the keyhole slot aperture need not be visible.

7. The equipment mount of claim 1, wherein the mounting plate is slidably coupled with a track comprising a backing plate having a central slot, a first outer slot, and a second outer slot, wherein:

the first outer slot and the second outer slot comprise a plurality of diamond-shaped contour target areas;

the diamond-shaped contoured target areas allow the enlarged head portions of the respective mounting posts to engage the first and second outer slots when the mounting plate is angled relative to the backing plate;

the central slot includes a plurality of locking pin apertures in the backing plate; and is

The locking pin apertures are horizontally aligned with the plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target areas.

8. The equipment mount of claim 7, wherein the locking pin release is rotated to remove any slack between the track and the mounting plate.

9. A self-aligning mounting system comprising an equipment mount and a wedge interface, wherein:

the equipment mount includes mounting panel, first rand, entrapment board, wedge release, at least one installation stand and release mechanism, wherein:

the mounting plate includes a front surface and a back surface, wherein the front surface is opposite the back surface;

a first collar is coupled to the front side of the mounting plate and includes a bowl aperture;

a capture plate coupled to the first collar and including a keyhole slot aperture having a wide end and a narrow end, the keyhole slot aperture longitudinally aligned with the bowl aperture such that the narrow end partially covers the bowl aperture;

the wedge release includes a wedge biasing spring and is coupled to the first collar;

a wedge biasing spring coupled between the first collar and the wedge release to bias the wedge release in the locked position;

the mounting posts are coupled to the back surface of the mounting plate, each mounting post including a stem portion extending outwardly from the back surface of the mounting plate and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the stem portion; and is

The release mechanism is coupled to the mounting plate and includes:

a locking pin disposed through the mounting plate and extending outwardly from the back surface in an extended position,

a spring biasing the locking pin in the extended position, an

At least one locking pin release operatively coupled to the locking pin to move the locking pin between the retracted position and the extended position; and is

The wedge interface includes an equipment plate, a bowl, and a wedge, wherein:

the bowl includes a plurality of catch guides on opposite sides of the bowl; and a wedge coupled between the equipment plate and the bowl and including a lead-in surface and two inclined surfaces to facilitate alignment of the wedge with a narrow end of the keyhole slot aperture when the wedge is slidably coupled with the keyhole slot aperture of the capture plate.

10. The self-aligning mounting system of claim 9, wherein the mounting plate is slidably coupled with a track, the track including a backing plate having a central slot, a first outer slot, and a second outer slot, wherein:

the first outer slot and the second outer slot comprise a plurality of diamond-shaped contour target areas;

the diamond-shaped contoured target areas allow the enlarged head portions of the respective mounting posts to engage the first and second outer slots when the mounting plate is angled relative to the backing plate;

the central slot includes a plurality of locking pin apertures in the backing plate; and is

The locking pin apertures are horizontally aligned with the plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target areas.

11. The self-aligning mounting system of claim 9, wherein the locking pin release is rotated to remove any slack between the rail and the mounting plate.

12. The self-aligning mounting system of claim 9, wherein the wedge interface is coupled to a medical device.

13. The self-aligning mounting system of claim 9, wherein alignment of the bowl with the keyhole slot aperture need not be visible.

14. A method of showing securing an equipment component to a surface, comprising:

coupling a rail to a surface, the rail comprising a backing plate having a central slot, a first outer slot, and a second outer slot, wherein:

the first outer slot and the second outer slot include a plurality of diamond-shaped contoured target areas,

when the mounting plate is angled relative to the backing plate, the diamond-shaped contoured target areas allow the enlarged head portions of the respective mounting posts to engage the first and second outer slots,

the central slot includes a plurality of locking pin apertures in the backing plate, and

the locking pin apertures are horizontally aligned with the plurality of diamond-shaped profile target areas;

mounting a wedge mount to a rail by aligning one or more mounting posts on the wedge mount with one or more diamond-shaped profile target areas on the rail and slidably coupling the wedge mount to a locking position such that a locking pin engages a corresponding locking pin aperture, the wedge mount comprising a mounting plate, a first collar, a capture plate, a wedge release, at least one mounting post, and a release mechanism, wherein:

the mounting plate includes a front surface and a back surface, wherein the front surface is opposite the back surface;

a first collar is coupled to the front side of the mounting plate and includes a bowl aperture;

a capture plate coupled to the first collar and including a keyhole slot aperture having a wide end and a narrow end, the keyhole slot aperture longitudinally aligned with the bowl aperture such that the narrow end partially covers the bowl aperture;

the wedge release includes a wedge biasing spring and is coupled to the first collar;

a wedge biasing spring coupled between the first collar and the wedge release to bias the wedge release in the locked position;

the mounting posts are coupled to the back surface of the mounting plate, each mounting post including a stem portion extending outwardly from the back surface of the mounting plate and an enlarged head portion disposed at a distal end of the stem portion; and is

The release mechanism is coupled to the mounting plate and includes:

a locking pin disposed through the mounting plate and extending outwardly from the back surface in an extended position,

a spring biasing the locking pin in the extended position, an

At least one locking pin release operatively coupled to the locking pin to move the locking pin between the retracted position and the extended position;

securing a device component to a wedge interface, the wedge interface comprising:

an equipment board is arranged on the base plate,

a bowl including a plurality of catch guides on opposite sides of the bowl, and

a wedge coupled between the equipment plate and the bowl and including a lead-in surface and two inclined surfaces;

aligning the wedge interface with the wedge mount by inserting the bowl into the landing area of the keyhole slot aperture such that the plurality of guide walls of the bowl aperture engage the plurality of sloped sides of the bowl to align the wedge with the wedge mount;

coupling the wedge interface with the wedge mount by sliding the wedge interface into the capture area at the narrow end of the keyhole slot aperture until the capture plate is secured between the equipment plate and the plurality of capture guides of the bowl; and

the wedge interface is locked to the wedge mount when the wedge release is in the locked position.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising:

unlocking the wedge interface from the wedge mount by actuating the wedge release into the unlocked position;

disengaging the wedge interface from the wedge mount by slidably moving the wedge interface into a wide area of the keyhole slot aperture; and

the wedge interface is removed from the wedge mount by pulling the bowl out of the bowl aperture.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the alignment of the bowl with the keyhole slot aperture need not be visible.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein the locking pin release is rotated to remove any slack between the track and the mounting plate.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein the wedge interface is coupled to a medical device.