Cargo Restraint Beam Assembly for Faster Cart Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo restraint systems in movable compartments require time-consuming installation and storage of stand-alone beams, occupy excessive space with wide beams, and necessitate numerous straps for securing multiple carts, increasing the risk of injury and reducing cargo capacity.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising adjustable beam assemblies mounted within the cargo compartment, utilizing track sub-assemblies secured to preexisting vertical logistics posts, allowing for vertical movement and reducing beam width to maximize space and minimize pinch points, thereby eliminating the need for external beams and straps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If stand-alone beams are brought in from outside the cargo compartment, then cargo can be restrained, but additional time is required and injury risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The beam assemblies are pre-installed within the cargo compartment, eliminating the need to bring them in from outside during each loading operation. The beams are positioned and ready for use before cargo arrives, thus reducing the time required for cargo restraint operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam assemblies are designed to be stored within the cargo compartment itself, making the system self-contained. The beams serve themselves by being permanently positioned and ready for use, eliminating the need for external storage and manual retrieval operations that consume time and pose injury risks.
2Reliability
If multiple straps are used to secure individual carts, then cargo can be restrained, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual cart restraint functions are merged into a single beam assembly that can restrain multiple carts simultaneously. Instead of applying separate straps to each cart, one beam assembly provides restraint across several carts, dramatically reducing the number of installation steps and time required.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam assembly is designed as a universal restraint device that can secure multiple different carts with a single installation. The beam spans across and restrains multiple carts simultaneously, providing multi-functionality that eliminates the need for multiple separate strapping operations.
3Reliability
If beams with large width are used, then cargo can be restrained, but cargo compartment space decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The beam assemblies are designed with optimized dimensional parameters, specifically a reduced width that minimizes space occupation in the cargo compartment. By carefully selecting and adjusting the width parameter of the beams, adequate restraint strength is maintained while maximizing the available volume for cargo placement.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for restraining cargo in a cargo compartment. In one embodiment, the system comprises a first track sub-assembly comprising a vertical track secured to at least one horizontal support member. The at least one horizontal support member is dimensioned to span between a plurality of preexisting vertical logistics posts on a first sidewall of a cargo compartment. In one embodiment, the at least one horizontal support member comprises first and second ends, and a center point positioned halfway between the first and second ends, wherein a central longitudinal axis of the vertical track is offset from the center point of the first horizontal support member by a predetermined distance. A first beam assembly having a first end assembly is movable along the vertical track and configured to be secured at a predetermined height.