Cargo Side Wall Latch Mechanism With Single Handle Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo area side wall latching mechanisms require users to walk around the entire cargo space to operate multiple handles, making it inconvenient and time-consuming to open and close the side walls.
Innovation Solution
A side wall with a single handle-based latching mechanism that includes a pulley system and cable connecting the rear and front latch mechanisms, allowing both to be operated from a single point, reducing complexity and assembly costs while providing easier access and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate latch mechanisms with individual handles are used for front and rear latching, then reliable locking is achieved, but device complexity and operation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple latch mechanisms (front and rear latches) into a single integrated system controlled by one handle. The handle simultaneously actuates both the front latch and rear latch through a shared actuating mechanism, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining reliable locking at both positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single handle serves multiple functions: it controls both the front latch and rear latch, and can operate in different positions (first position for front latch, second position for rear latch). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate handles while ensuring reliable engagement of both latching points.
2Reliability
If multiple handles are provided at different positions along the side wall, then reliable latching is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates as users must walk around the cargo space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control handles into a single handle located at one accessible position on the side wall. This single handle controls both the front and rear latches, eliminating the need for users to move to different positions along the side wall while maintaining secure latching at both front and rear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cable or linkage system as an intermediary mechanism that transmits the actuating force from the single handle to both the front and rear latches. This intermediary allows one handle to control multiple distant latching points without requiring the user to be physically present at each location.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate actuating mechanisms are used for front and rear latches, then independent control is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuating mechanisms for the front and rear latches into a single integrated system. The handle and its associated actuating components serve both latches simultaneously, reducing the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled while maintaining the ability to control both latches independently through the single handle's positioning.
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
Enables convenient and efficient opening and closing of the side walls by rotating a single handle, eliminating the need for multiple handles and reducing the time and effort required to access the cargo area.
Implementation Method 1
a spring arranged for biasing the front latch outwardly with respect to the side wall
Implementation Method 2
a pulley system comprising: a pulley fixedly mounted to the handle; and a cable interconnecting the pulley and the front latch
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6(a)~6(b)
AI summary
A side wall (1) for a cargo area (2) of a vehicle, the side wall (2) comprising a latch mechanism (9) comprising: a rear latch mechanism (11) comprising a rotatable handle (10) with a rear latch (26); a front latch mechanism (12) comprising a movable front latch (20); a pulley system (13) comprising a pulley (15) mounted to the handle (10), and a spring (19) connected to the front latch (20) and a cable (16) interconnecting the pulley (15) and the front latch (20), the latch mechanism (9) being adapted for engaging and disengaging both the front latch (20) and the rear latch (26) upon rotation of the handle (10). The present invention also relates to a vehicle or trailer comprising a cargo area with at least one such side wall.