Cam Bushing Accessory Retaining Device for Tool-Free Vehicle Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accessory retaining devices for vehicles are often cumbersome and time-consuming to install and remove, requiring tools and modifications, which can be prohibitive for frequent use or seasonal applications.
Innovation Solution
The Accessory Retaining Device (ARD) employs a cam bushing mechanism with a handle and shaft that rotates to create a compressive force on a grommet, allowing easy insertion and secure locking into retaining apertures without needing to access the device's backside, using a fastener and compressible grommet to provide friction for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard accessory installation methods are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory mounting system is divided into separate components: a retaining device with cam mechanism that interfaces with the vehicle body, and a mounting bracket that attaches to the accessory. This segmentation allows the retaining device to be quickly installed in the vehicle while the accessory can be rapidly attached or detached from the bracket without affecting the vehicle installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism provides dynamic locking and unlocking action. Rotating the cam lever transitions the mounting bracket between a locked position (where the cam engages with the retaining device) and an unlocked position (where the cam disengages), enabling quick attachment and detachment of accessories without tools.
2Reliability
If specialized tools and modifications are used for accessory installation, then secure attachment is achieved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates an integrated cam mechanism that allows the user to lock and unlock the accessory using only the lever action. The cam geometry itself provides the locking function, eliminating the need for separate tools or complex installation procedures while maintaining secure attachment.
3Ease of operation
If accessories are designed for frequent installation and removal, then ease of operation improves, but fastening strength may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism uses curved cam surfaces that convert rotational motion of the lever into linear clamping force on the mounting bracket. The curved geometry of the cam lobes ensures progressive engagement and distribution of locking force, providing strong secure attachment while maintaining smooth, tool-free operation for frequent installation and removal.
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 quick and secure attachment and detachment of accessories from the exterior of a vehicle, maintaining sufficient fastening strength without requiring extensive tools or modifications, facilitating easy use and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a cam bushing mechanism with a handle and shaft that rotates to create a compressive force on a grommet
Implementation Method 2
using a fastener and compressible grommet to provide friction for secure attachment
Implementation Method 3
a compressible grommet positioned around the shaft between the accessory mounting bracket and the fastener
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatus and methods for an accessory retaining device are described. According to various embodiments, a handle, shaft and flange are configured to provide a rotational interface. With the assistance of threading between the shaft and the handle or other components, rotation of the handle causes axial movement of the shaft and compression of a grommet located about the shaft or flange. Compression of the grommet results in radial expansion. In this way, the accessory retaining device is adapted to secure an accessory to a mounting aperture located on a vehicle or other device when the handle is in a closed position. Other embodiments are described and claimed.