Base Plate Adaptor for Mixed Accessory Mounting and Power

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cargo and work area systems face challenges in securely mounting accessories with different mounting configurations, as they often do not fit into the standard aperture configurations provided by base plates, and there is a need for flexible power transfer solutions to accommodate various accessories.

Innovation Solution

An adaptor with a first side configured to fit into existing base plate apertures and a second side with a different mounting configuration, equipped with cleats, latching features, and power transfer capabilities, allowing accessories with unique mounting requirements to be securely attached and powered.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a standard aperture configuration on the base plate is used, then the mounting structure is simple and reliable, but it cannot accommodate accessories with different mounting configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different accessory mounting configurationsVSAvoidmounting structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adaptor serves as an intermediary component between the base plate and the accessory. It has a first mounting configuration that interfaces with the standard base plate aperture pattern, and a second mounting configuration that interfaces with the accessory's unique mounting pattern. This mediator allows accessories with non-standard mounting configurations to be securely attached to the base plate without modifying the base plate itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The adaptor is designed with multiple mounting configurations on different sides, enabling it to serve multiple functions. One side accommodates the standard base plate aperture pattern while the other side accommodates various accessory mounting patterns, making the adaptor universally applicable to different accessory types without requiring multiple specialized mounting components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If accessories with unique mounting requirements are accommodated, then adaptability is improved, but the mounting structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting configuration compatibilityVSAvoidadaptor structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adaptor employs asymmetric design where different sides of the adaptor have different mounting configurations. The first side is designed to match the standard base plate aperture pattern, while the second side features a different pattern tailored to accommodate accessories with unique mounting requirements. This asymmetric approach allows the adaptor to bridge between standard and non-standard mounting systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The solution adds a dimensional aspect by introducing an intermediate component (the adaptor) that translates between different mounting configuration dimensions. Rather than trying to make the base plate accommodate all patterns directly, the adaptor provides an additional layer that converts the standard aperture pattern into various accessory-specific patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If power transfer capabilities are integrated into the adaptor, then accessory power supply is enabled, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transfer capabilityVSAvoidadaptor component complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adaptor merges multiple functions into a single component: mechanical mounting and electrical power transfer. The body of the adaptor provides the mounting interface while the contactless power transfer system is integrated within the same component, eliminating the need for separate mechanical and electrical connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical electrical contacts with a contactless power transfer system using magnetic fields. This substitution eliminates the need for physical plug-and-socket connections, reducing wear and contamination risks while maintaining power transfer capability through electromagnetic induction or resonance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables the secure attachment and power supply of accessories with diverse mounting configurations, enhancing flexibility and usability in cargo or work areas by accommodating various types of accessories and providing power connectivity through direct or inductive charging.

Implementation Method 1

including a resilient member that biases the lever arm to the latched position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the body is comprised of a material that has long persistent phosphor molded within to provide passive lighting for a predetermined amount of time

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhosphorescence: Phosphorescence

Data Source

PatentUS20240409036A1Base plate adaptors for accessories
Publication Date: 2024.12.12 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US20240409036A1 patent drawing
  • US20240409036A1 patent drawing
  • US20240409036A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An adaptor for an accessory attachment system comprises a body having a first side and a second side opposite of the first side. The first side has a first mounting configuration that is configured to be received within a first pattern of apertures on a base plate. The second side has a second mounting configuration that is different than the first mounting configuration such that an accessory having the second mounting configuration configured to interact with a second pattern of apertures different than the first pattern of apertures can be mounted to the base plate via the body.