Deck Panel Hinge Locking Hook Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Deck panels in trailers' cargo sections can fall off when moved to a stored position, causing injury or damage unless securely locked, as existing solutions fail to provide effective securing mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A hinge and locking device is implemented, featuring a hook that rotates out to engage a securing mechanism on the wall when the deck panel is moved from the work position to the stored position, utilizing a hinge assembly and a locking mechanism with an extension arm and hook to securely lock the panel in place.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a deck panel is moved to a stored position, then the cargo section space is optimized, but the deck panel may fall off causing injury or damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecargo section spaceVSAvoiddeck panel security

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is designed to automatically engage the hook with the securing mechanism on the wall when the deck panel is moved to the stored position. The system self-activates through the movement itself, with the hook rotating out automatically as the panel reaches the stored position, eliminating the need for manual locking operations while ensuring reliable securing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The hook is positioned and configured in advance to rotate out and engage the securing mechanism automatically when the deck panel reaches the stored position. The locking action is prepared and executed as part of the positioning process itself, ensuring the panel is secured before any potential falling hazard can occur

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If a locking device is added to secure the deck panel, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedeck panel securityVSAvoidhinge and locking mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is integrated with the hinge assembly, combining the movement function and locking function into a single unified mechanism. The hook is part of the hinge assembly structure, and the locking action is achieved through the natural rotation movement of the hinge when the panel is positioned, eliminating the need for separate locking components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge assembly serves multiple functions: it enables movement of the deck panel between work and stored positions, and simultaneously provides the locking function through the hook mechanism. The same structural components perform both positioning and securing tasks, reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10094156B2Hinge and locking device

Publication Date: 2018.10.09 HYUNDAI TRANSLEAD INC

AI summary

An apparatus or device for securing a deck panel including: at least one hinge assembly coupled to the wall and the deck panel, the at least one hinge assembly configured to allow movement between a stored position and a work position of the deck panel; and a locking device coupled to the deck panel, the locking device having a hook configured to rotate out and engage a securing mechanism on the wall when the deck panel is moved from the work position to the stored position.