Bilateral Cargo Strap System with Stabilizing Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cargo within vehicles is prone to shifting and damage during transportation due to inadequate securing methods, which can lead to loss or damage, especially when storage space is not fully occupied, and existing straps and tie-downs are prone to slipping and compromising their securing ability.
Innovation Solution
A bilateral cargo strap system utilizing elastic straps with perpendicularly positioned stabilizing rods to distribute tension and secure cargo effectively, featuring adjustable and durable components that can accommodate various cargo shapes and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cables, tie downs, or straps are used to secure cargo, then cargo can be bound to the storage area, but the restraints themselves are prone to shifting and slipping on the cargo during transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces foam blocks as intermediary elements between the elastic straps and the cargo. These foam blocks act as mediators that prevent direct contact and slipping between the straps and cargo surfaces, thereby eliminating the shifting and slipping problems of traditional restraints while maintaining securing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-dimension strap wrapping to a multi-dimensional securing system by incorporating foam blocks that extend perpendicular to the strap direction. This adds a vertical dimension to the securing mechanism, creating a more stable three-dimensional restraint structure that prevents cargo movement in multiple directions.
2Reliability
If elastic straps are used to secure cargo, then cargo can be retained within storage area, but tension force may concentrate at specific points causing damage to cargo
Solution Approach 1:
The foam blocks serve as intermediary elements between the elastic straps and the cargo surface. These intermediaries distribute the concentrated tension force from the straps across a larger surface area of the foam, preventing direct concentration of force on the cargo and eliminating the risk of damage while maintaining retention capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The foam blocks act as flexible protective interfaces that conform to the cargo surface while distributing forces. Their flexible nature allows them to adapt to various cargo shapes while their distributed structure prevents concentration of tension forces, protecting the cargo from damage.
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 system provides enhanced retention and stability for cargo during transportation and storage, preventing damage and loss by evenly distributing tension forces across the cargo, suitable for a wide range of cargo types and sizes, including irregular shapes.
Implementation Method 1
The bilateral cargo strap system utilizes elastic straps with perpendicularly positioned stabilizing rods to distribute tension and secure cargo effectively
Data Source
AI summary
A bilateral cargo strap system is provided as a means of securing a variety of different cargo within a storage area. The bilateral cargo strap system utilizes a combination of elastic straps with perpendicularly positioned stabilizing rods to improve retention of a variety of cargo within a storage area. The elastic straps extend over the retained cargo and are used as the means of engaging mounting features within the storage area. The stabilizing rods effectively distribute the tension force of the elastic straps over the retained cargo securing it in place within the storage space. The bilateral cargo strap system is versatile and may be used to secure a wide variety of cargo including, but not limited to, kayaks, coolers, bicycles, lumber, and construction equipment.