Cargo Box Tool Holder Clamp With Tool-Free Rail Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool holders for off-road utility vehicles require tools for installation and removal, and are secured using expansion anchors or threaded fasteners, which can be cumbersome and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A cargo box tool holder clamp with a post that fits into a stake pocket and a sleeve extending above the rail, secured by a pivot member and optional quick release pin, allowing tool-free installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If expansion anchors or threaded fasteners are used to secure tool holders, then the tool holder is firmly secured to the cargo box, but the installation and removal require tools and become cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly incorporates a pivotable clamp arm that can be rotated between engaged and disengaged positions. This dynamic mechanism allows the clamp to be quickly opened and closed without tools, enabling easy installation and removal while maintaining secure holding when engaged
Solution Approach 2:
The tool holder system is divided into separate components: a post with base, a sleeve, and a clamp assembly. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, with the clamp assembly serving as a removable fastening mechanism that simplifies installation and removal
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to secure the tool holder, then the security and reliability of the connection is improved, but the time required for installation and removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable clamp arm provides a dynamic fastening mechanism that achieves secure connection through a single rotational motion rather than multiple fastening operations. The spring-loaded design ensures consistent clamping force while allowing rapid engagement and disengagement
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening function is extracted from multiple threaded fasteners and consolidated into a single clamp assembly. This extracted fastening mechanism maintains connection security while dramatically reducing the time required for installation and removal
3Strength
If expansion anchors are used to secure the tool holder, then the holding strength is improved, but the risk of damaging vehicle components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The post with base is designed as a disposable component that absorbs impact forces and can be replaced if damaged. This protects the permanent cargo box structure from damage while maintaining holding strength through the sacrificial nature of the post
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element in the clamp assembly provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining constant contact pressure and absorbing shocks. This prevents sudden impact forces from damaging the cargo box rail or stake pocket while maintaining secure holding
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo box tool holder clamp includes a post having a first end slideable into a stake pocket in a side wall of a utility vehicle cargo bed, and a sleeve sliding over a second end of the post. A plurality of tool holders may be mounted to the sleeve. A pivot member with a hook shape locks the sleeve to a rail above the side wall in an engaged position, and unlocks the sleeve from the rail in a disengaged position.