Roof Cargo Container Latch Layout for Single-Side Opening
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo container latch systems require both latch handles to be unlocked and opened on vehicles, necessitating a dual hinge system and limiting user convenience and safety during transport.
Innovation Solution
A cargo container design with two latch handles, allowing independent operation of one latch to open the container, even if the other is locked, eliminating the need for a dual hinge system and enabling safe use without both latches being locked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If both latch handles must be unlocked to open the cargo container, then security is improved, but user convenience and operational ease deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is segmented into two independent latch mechanisms (first latch and second latch) that can operate independently. Each latch has its own handle and locking mechanism, allowing one latch to be unlocked while the other remains locked. This segmentation enables flexible operation modes: users can open the container from one side without needing to access both sides, improving convenience while maintaining security through the option to keep one latch locked.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dual hinge system is used to support opening from both sides, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate hinge systems into a single hinge mechanism. The first hinge and second hinge are combined into one hinge assembly that supports the lid when opened from either side. This consolidation maintains the adaptability to open from both sides while significantly reducing the complexity of having two separate hinge systems, fewer mounting points, and simplified structural support.
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo container for a vehicle roof has dual latch handles, with one latch handle on each side of the cargo container. The cargo container comprises a lid that may be in closed or open configurations. In the closed configuration, the latch handles may be in a locked or unlocked state. In the unlocked state the latches may be latched or unlatched. The cargo container may be reconfigured from closed to open configurations when either of the latches is in the unlocked and unlatched state, even if the other latch is in the locked state or the unlocked, latched state. This allows a user to open the cargo container without walking around to both sides of a vehicle to unlocking both latches. The cargo container does not require a dual hinge system to function in the described manner.