Cargo Container Rack Mount for Secure Multi-Rack Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo containers for bicycles lack a secure and versatile attachment system that can reliably attach to various rack configurations, offering inadequate theft protection and limited carrying capacity.
Innovation Solution
A cargo container with a universal mounting system featuring an array of openings on the base panel and fastening assemblies, including elongated members and securing features, allowing it to be rigidly and releasably attached to different vehicle racks, enhancing security and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hook-and-loop fastener strips are used to secure the enclosure to the rack, then the enclosure can be easily attached, but the attachment is not rigid and offers little security from theft
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into multiple independent fastening assemblies, each capable of securing the container to the rack at different locations. This segmentation allows the system to provide both ease of attachment (through individual simple fasteners) and high security (through multiple attachment points working together)
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening assemblies are integrated into the container structure with elongated members that pass through openings in the container wall and engage with rack elements. The retaining elements are nested within the fastening assembly structure, creating a compact and secure attachment mechanism that maintains both ease of operation and high reliability
2Reliability
If storage boxes are designed to secure to specific receiving mounts, then the attachment is specific and secure, but the enclosure cannot be used with other bicycle models or rack configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed with a universal attachment system featuring multiple openings in the container wall and several fastening assemblies that can accommodate different rack configurations. The system can adapt to various rack types (bicycle racks, motorcycle racks, automobile racks, ATV racks, UTV racks) while maintaining secure attachment, making the container versatile across different vehicle platforms
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system allows for dynamic configuration where fastening assemblies can be positioned at different locations along the container depending on the rack configuration. The elongated members can engage with rack elements at various positions, enabling the same container to securely attach to different rack types through adjustable fastening positions
3Reliability
If multiple fastening points are used to secure the container to the rack, then the attachment security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each fastening assembly is designed as a simple, standardized component with local functionality. The openings in the container wall are uniformly positioned to accommodate these simple fastening assemblies. This approach allows multiple attachment points to provide high security while keeping each individual component simple and the overall system manageable
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo container with universal rack mount system enables rigidly and releasably mounting to a large variety of different configurations and dimensions of vehicle racks. The container has a base panel, at least a portion of which has an array of openings extending therethrough. The system may also include at least one optional retention member with at least one opening extending therethrough, and at last one fastening assembly. The fastening assembly comprises an elongated member having a first portion for engaging an element of a vehicle rack, and a second portion having at least one element that is adapted to extend through one of the base panel array openings and one retention member openings. If present. The second portion further includes an engagable securing feature and a retaining element configured to releasably engage the securing feature for releasably securing the base panel to the rack.