Cam-Actuated Hook Mounting for Composite Cargo Box Sidewalls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachment mounting systems for utility vehicle cargo boxes, particularly those made of composite materials, face challenges in mounting or relocating attachments without damaging the sidewalls and accommodating manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion, as drilling holes can cause damage and traditional methods require tools.
Innovation Solution
A tool-free attachment mounting device featuring a J-hook with a cam insert and handle that engages a recessed surface on the cargo box sidewall, allowing for secure attachment and detachment without damaging the composite material, while accommodating manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drilling holes into composite cargo box sidewalls to mount attachments, then attachments can be securely mounted, but the sidewalls are damaged or destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cam-actuated mounting device as an intermediary between the attachment and the cargo box sidewall. This device engages with a recessed surface on the sidewall through a cam mechanism that applies localized pressure without penetrating or damaging the composite material, thereby securing the attachment while preserving the sidewall integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional drilling and fastening mechanical system with a cam-based mechanical system. Instead of creating holes and inserting fasteners, the cam mechanism uses rotational motion to apply progressive pressure that secures the attachment to the recessed surface, eliminating the need for holes and associated damage to composite sidewalls
2Reliability
If using traditional bolt-on methods to mount attachments on steel sidewalls, then attachments can be securely mounted, but tools and hardware are required
Solution Approach 1:
The cam-actuated mounting device is designed to be self-contained and self-operating. The cam mechanism itself performs the function of securing the attachment through its geometric shape and rotational action, eliminating the need for separate fasteners, bolts, or external tools. The device serves its own mounting function through the inherent mechanical advantage of the cam geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated device: the cam mechanism simultaneously provides the mounting force, the positioning feature, and the securing action. By merging these previously separate functions (fastener, positioning element, and actuation mechanism) into one cam-actuated device, the system eliminates the need for multiple hardware components and tools
3Reliability
If using rigid mounting systems on composite cargo boxes, then attachments can be firmly secured, but manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism introduces dynamic adaptability to the mounting system. As the cam rotates, it progressively applies pressure that can accommodate variations in the recessed surface position caused by manufacturing tolerances. The continuous rotational motion allows the mounting device to self-adjust and maintain firm contact despite dimensional variations or thermal expansion of the composite cargo box
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment mounting device for a utility vehicle cargo box with a sidewall with a bar along a top edge and a recessed surface in the sidewall below the bar. The attachment mounting device has a head at an upper end, a hook at a lower end, and a mid-section therebetween. A handle is attached to a cam insert having a cam surface contacting the bar. The cam insert is slidable to move the cam insert around the bar to move the hook upward sufficiently to engage the recessed surface in the sidewall.