Auto-Locking SCBA Holder With Crash-Triggered Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SCBA holders require user intervention to release the equipment during normal conditions but fail to prevent release during accident scenarios, lacking an auto-locking mechanism that secures the SCBA without separate retention devices.
Innovation Solution
An auto-locking holder apparatus with a retractor device and locking mechanism that allows free installation and removal of the SCBA during normal conditions but locks in place during accident scenarios, using an extendable and retractable member to secure the SCBA without separate release devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a restraint device is used to secure the SCBA in the holder, then the SCBA remains secured during accident scenarios, but user intervention is required to release the SCBA during normal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The holder apparatus automatically secures the SCBA during accident scenarios through the locking mechanism that engages when the vehicle experiences rapid deceleration or collision, eliminating the need for user intervention to activate restraint. The system serves itself by using the accident forces to trigger the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder transitions between two dynamic states: an unlocked state during normal operation where the SCBA can be freely installed and removed, and a locked state during accident scenarios where the SCBA is automatically secured. The locking mechanism dynamically responds to vehicle deceleration forces to switch between these states.
2Reliability
If separate retention devices are used to secure the SCBA, then the SCBA remains restrained during accidents, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder apparatus combines the mounting structure, restraint mechanism, and locking system into a single integrated device. The frame and holder member work together with the locking mechanism to provide both secure restraint during accidents and easy access during normal conditions, eliminating the need for separate retention devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder apparatus performs multiple functions: it provides secure mounting during normal operation, automatic restraint during accident scenarios, and automatic release after the accident. The single device structure serves as both a mounting bracket and an active restraint system with intelligent locking capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If the holder remains open for convenient placement, then installation is easy, but the SCBA is not secured during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The holder maintains an open or accessible state during normal transport and operation, allowing the SCBA to be freely installed and removed. The locking mechanism is prepared in advance to automatically engage when accident forces are detected, securing the SCBA without interfering with normal installation or removal operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for removably restraining an object in a vehicle includes a housing for attachment to a structure of the vehicle and at least one holder coupled to the housing for movement between an access position and a restraint position. An extensible member has a first end operably engaging the holder and a second end coupled to a retractor device. The retractor device is coupled to the housing and locks the extensible member when the vehicle experiences an event involving a rapid change in position, speed or acceleration, so that the holder is movable to the access position during absence of the event and the holder is locked in the restraint position during the event.