Base Plate Inserts with Living Hinges for Quick Connect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base plates for securing accessories in vehicles lack a secure, quick connect/disconnect mechanism and integrated power connection interfaces, making it difficult to switch between accessories and ensure secure holding of power tools and other equipment.
Innovation Solution
A base plate with polygonal apertures and inserts made from plastic material, featuring living hinges and power connection apertures, allowing for secure mechanical attachment and easy swapping of accessories, along with locking and power charging capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional base plates without inserts are used, then the structure is simple, but the connect/disconnect mechanism is not secure and switching between accessories is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is segmented by inserting separate insert components into the apertures. These inserts contain the connect/disconnect and locking mechanisms, dividing the overall system into modular functional elements. This allows the base plate itself to remain simple while the inserts provide the secure holding mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The inserts act as intermediary components between the mounting feet and the base plate apertures. They provide the secure holding, locking, and electrical connection functions, mediating the interaction between the accessory and the base plate while keeping the base plate structure relatively simple.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional base plates without integrated power connections are used, then the structure is simpler, but power charging capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The insert merges multiple functions into a single component: mechanical attachment (mounting foot reception), electrical connection (power charging), and locking. By combining these functions in the insert rather than having separate systems, the base plate gains versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert is designed as a universal component that handles multiple functions: securing the mounting foot, providing electrical power connection for charging, and enabling locking. This multi-functionality increases adaptability while keeping the overall system design manageable.
3Ease of operation
If polygonal inserts with living hinges are used, then quick connect/disconnect capability is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insert uses living hinges that rely on material parameter changes - specifically the elastic properties of plastic materials. The hinges are designed to bend and flex within elastic limits, allowing quick connect/disconnect through simple deformation rather than complex mechanical movements. This achieves ease of operation while keeping manufacturing relatively simple through injection molding.
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
The solution provides a high-strength, lightweight base plate with quick connect/disconnect capability, secure locking, and integrated power charging features, enabling efficient switching and secure holding of accessories, enhancing versatility and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the plurality of hinges comprise living hinges
Data Source
AI summary
A base plate for an accessory attachment system includes a plurality of apertures. At least a first set of apertures of the plurality of apertures are configured to receive a mounting foot from an accessory to be mounted on the base plate. The base plate also includes an insert that is mounted in the apertures of the first set of apertures.