Removable Blocking Device for Load Carrier Rack Security
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load carrier racks for vehicles lack secure mechanisms to prevent unauthorized removal and adjustment, leading to potential theft and improper use.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a load carrier rack system with a removable blocking device and a locking cover for the clamp device, which includes an interference portion and a lock to prevent unauthorized access and movement, along with an interference mechanism for height adjustment using a rotatable handle and compression bolt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a removable blocking device with lock is added to prevent unauthorized removal, then security against theft is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking device is divided into separate functional components: an interference portion that physically blocks removal, an insert portion that secures to the upright leg, and a lock mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system manageability despite increased complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock is contained within the blocking device housing, and the insert portion is received within an opening in the upright leg. This nesting approach consolidates multiple functions into overlapping structural elements, reducing the number of separate external components and mitigating the visual and structural impact of added complexity.
2Reliability
If a blocking device is added to prevent unauthorized removal, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking device transitions between blocked and unblocked states through the lock mechanism. The interference portion can be dynamically positioned to either obstruct or allow removal of the upright leg, providing operational flexibility that balances security with ease of use when authorized.
Solution Approach 2:
The interference portion is designed to be manually removable by authorized users who possess the key or access mechanism. This self-service capability allows users to independently secure or unsecure the rack without requiring specialized tools or assistance, maintaining ease of operation for authorized personnel.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an interference mechanism with multiple components is used for height adjustment, then adjustability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The upright leg can be dynamically positioned at multiple height levels through the interference mechanism. The mechanism allows the leg to be adjusted to different vertical positions and locked in place, providing adaptability for various loading requirements while using a relatively simple mechanical approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The interference mechanism acts as an intermediary between the upright leg and the base member, mediating the height adjustment function. Rather than requiring complex motorized or hydraulic systems, the mechanism uses mechanical interference and release to achieve height variability, simplifying the overall system.
4Reliability
If a blocking device is added to prevent unauthorized removal, then security is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking device is manufactured as separate components (interference portion, insert portion, lock mechanism) that can be produced independently using standard manufacturing processes. This segmentation allows for optimized production of each component and simplifies assembly, helping to control manufacturing costs despite the added security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking device serves multiple functions: it prevents unauthorized removal, provides height adjustment capability, and offers a secure locking mechanism. By combining these functions into a single integrated component system, the patent reduces the need for separate security devices, adjustment mechanisms, and locking systems, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
Data Source
AI summary
A removable blocking device for preventing disengagement of an upright leg from a base member of the load carrier. The base member can have a receiving passage in which the upright leg reciprocates. The removable blocking device can include an interference portion releasably couplable to a lower distal end of the upright leg, the interference portion can have a dimension that is greater than a corresponding dimension of the lower opening to the receiving passage. The interference portion can have an abutment surface configured to blockingly engage the base member proximate the lower opening to the receiving passage. A lock contained at least partially within the removable blocking device, the lock being transitional between a locked configuration in which the removable blocking device is locked to the upright leg and an unlocked configuration in which the removable blocking device is released from the upright leg.