Cargo Decking Beam End Assembly with Swivel Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cargo decking beam systems are prone to damage from heavy loads due to their vulnerability, especially when the trigger mechanisms become bent, rendering the beams unusable.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an end assembly with C-shaped plates slidably disposed within the decking beam, featuring a latch mechanism with a swivel latch and return spring, allowing for secure engagement with mounting tracks and providing mechanical reinforcement, enabling the beam to withstand heavy loads and be easily replaced if damaged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional trigger mechanisms are used in decking beams, then the beam structure is simple, but the reliability deteriorates when the trigger mechanisms become bent from heavy loads
Solution Approach 1:
The beam end is divided into multiple C-shaped plates coupled back-to-back, creating modular segments that can independently absorb and distribute stress, preventing catastrophic failure of the entire beam when one segment is subjected to heavy loads
Solution Approach 2:
The beam end combines multiple C-shaped plates into a composite structure that leverages the geometric strength of the C-shape configuration, creating a more resilient composite form that resists bending and deformation better than solid plate structures
2Strength
If solid plate structures are used for beam ends, then the manufacturing is simple, but the ability to withstand heavy loads deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The beam end is segmented into multiple C-shaped plates that are coupled together, where each plate is simpler to manufacture than a large solid plate, yet the combined segmented structure provides superior load-bearing capacity through distributed stress management
Solution Approach 2:
The C-shaped plates utilize curved geometry instead of flat plates, where the curvature naturally distributes and redirects applied loads around the bends, enhancing the load-bearing capacity of each individual plate component
3Ease of repair
If the trigger mechanism is enclosed in the middle of the beam, then the beam structure is compact, but the ease of repair deteriorates when the mechanism becomes damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger mechanism is extracted from the enclosed central position and relocated to the external surface of the beam end, making it accessible for inspection and repair while the C-shaped plate structure maintains compact overall dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The C-shaped plates are nested or coupled together in a compact arrangement that maintains a space-efficient beam end structure while providing external access points for the trigger mechanism through strategically positioned openings
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 solution significantly enhances the resilience of cargo decking beams to damage, allowing them to support heavy loads effectively while being modular and cost-efficient to replace, thus reducing operational costs and ensuring continuous functionality.
Implementation Method 1
An internal swivel latch fills the space left by the notch when in a closed position to prevent the retaining lip from lifting out of the openings. By default, the swivel latch is held in closed position by a return spring.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an end assembly for use with cargo decking beams. The end assembly comprises a body formed from C-shaped plates coupled back-to-back that is slidably disposed within the end of a decking beam. A latch mechanism at one end of the body includes an end tab formed from the plates that fits into openings (either A or E slots) in a mounting track. A retaining lip on the bottom engages the openings and a notch in the top provides room for the lip to be inserted and lifted out of the openings. An internal swivel latch fills the space left by the notch when in a closed position to prevent the retaining lip from lifting out of the openings.