Carabiner-Style Cargo Hook with Resilient Gate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current utility vehicles lack versatile cargo management solutions, as closed loop tie-downs require counterparts and are limited in capacity, while grocery hooks are prone to detachment under certain conditions and have limited load-bearing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A carabiner-style hook with a resilient body, featuring a first and second section with different inner radii and a gate that changes gap width, made from molded plastic with a mounting lug, locating rib, and screw boss, allowing for secure attachment and detachment of various cargo items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If closed loop tie-down anchors are used, then cargo can be secured, but the number of attachable items is limited and counterparts are required
Solution Approach 1:
The carabiner-style hook is designed to accept multiple types of counterparts including bungee cords, ropes, straps, and other hooks, making it a universal attachment point that eliminates the need for specific matched pairs and increases the variety of cargo management solutions available
2Strength
If grocery hooks are used, then items can be attached at higher locations, but items may detach under certain road conditions and load capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The gate is designed with resilient sections that allow dynamic movement and flexibility during vehicle operation, enabling the gate to flex under load and road conditions while maintaining secure engagement, preventing detachment that occurs with rigid grocery hooks
3Adaptability or versatility
If a resilient section with different radii is used, then the gate can change gap width for versatility, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient section incorporates specific geometric parameters including a first radius of curvature for the inner surface and a second radius for the outer surface, where the ratio between these radii is controlled to achieve the desired gap width adjustment capability while maintaining manufacturability 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 carabiner-style hook provides increased versatility and secure cargo management by accommodating a wide range of items and withstanding various loads, ensuring items remain attached under different road conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The first resilient section may be displaceable between a home position providing the gate with a first gap width W1 and a deflected position providing the gate with a second gap width W2
Implementation Method 2
The first resilient section may include a living hinge
Data Source
AI summary
A carabiner-style hook is provided for managing cargo. The hook includes a body having a first resilient section, a second section and a gate defined between the first resilient section and the second section.