Detachable Tie-Down With Magnetic or Suction Surface Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo securing devices require an available anchor on the structure for attachment, which is not always feasible or desirable.
Innovation Solution
A securing device with a frame, tether, and attachment device that can be attached to surfaces without existing anchors, using magnets or suction cups for ferrous surfaces and featuring a buckle for adjustable tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cargo securing devices with hooks and loops are used, then cargo can be secured to structures with existing anchors, but the device cannot be attached to surfaces without existing anchors
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is divided into separate functional components: a magnetic attachment device for surface attachment, a frame structure for positioning, and a tether system for cargo securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling attachment to surfaces without existing anchors while maintaining overall system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical anchor-based attachment system with a magnetic attachment device. The magnetic attachment device uses magnetic force to attach directly to ferrous surfaces, eliminating the need for mechanical anchors, hooks, or loops that require pre-installed attachment points
2Reliability
If permanent anchors are installed on surfaces, then cargo securing devices can be reliably attached, but the surface structure is permanently modified
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment device utilizes the inherent magnetic properties of ferrous surfaces to create attachment without requiring any modification to the surface. The surface itself provides the attachment mechanism through its magnetic characteristics, eliminating the need for permanent anchors while maintaining reliable attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical anchor systems with a magnetic attachment device that relies on magnetic attraction. This replacement allows reliable attachment to ferrous surfaces without drilling, fastening, or permanently modifying the surface structure
3Adaptability or versatility
If a magnetic attachment device is used to attach to ferrous surfaces, then permanent anchors are unnecessary, but the pulling force must be sufficient to secure cargo
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment device is integrated with a rigid frame structure that distributes and transmits the magnetic holding force to the cargo tether system. This merging of the magnetic attachment device with the frame provides both attachment flexibility and sufficient pulling force to secure cargo effectively
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 secure attachment of cargo to various surfaces, including flat and ferrous surfaces, with adjustable tension and high pulling force, without the need for permanent anchors.
Implementation Method 1
The attachment device includes a magnet and is configured to attach to a ferrous surface
Data Source
AI summary
A novel securing device includes a frame having an anchor, a tether coupled to the anchor, and an attachment device coupled to the frame. The attachment device is configured to facilitate selective attachment to a planar surface. In a particular embodiment, the attachment device is a magnetic attachment device. Optionally, the magnetic attachment device is encased between the frame and a cover that prevents scratching of the planar surface to which the device is secured. In another particular embodiment, the attachment device is a suction cup. The magnetic attachment device and the suction cup may be interchangeable.