Dual Attachment System for Vehicle Storage Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachment systems for storage containers on vehicles are prone to user error, leading to improper securing, which can result in the storage container falling off or being stolen, due to the susceptibility of locks to incorrect application or forgetfulness.
Innovation Solution
A dual attachment system comprising a passive device that automatically secures the storage container to the vehicle and an active device manually operable by the user to lock it in place, utilizing a movable member with post-receiving recesses and a biasing element to ensure secure engagement and disengagement, along with a quick-connect actuator and locking member for additional locking functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock is provided to secure the removable storage container to the vehicle, then the storage container can be secured to the vehicle, but the system becomes susceptible to user error resulting in improper securing or forgetfulness
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into two independent devices: a passive attachment device that automatically secures the container when positioned, and an active attachment device that provides optional locking. This segmentation eliminates the need for user judgment about proper lock application while maintaining security options.
Solution Approach 2:
The passive attachment device performs the securing action automatically when the storage container is positioned in place on the vehicle, before the user needs to take any action. This preliminary automatic engagement ensures proper securing without relying on user memory or correctness.
2Reliability
If a passive attachment device automatically secures the storage container, then user error is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The passive attachment device is designed to automatically engage and secure the storage container without requiring user intervention or complex control systems. The movable member self-actuates through simple mechanical means when the container is positioned, providing reliable automatic securing with minimal complexity.
3Reliability
If the movable member is automatically moved to the unlatched position during positioning, then secure engagement is ensured, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable member transitions from a static lock component to a dynamic element that automatically moves between latched and unlatched positions based on the container's placement. This dynamic behavior is achieved through simple mechanical interaction with the vehicle structure, allowing automatic engagement without complex control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment system for attaching a storage container to a vehicle includes a passive attachment device for securing the storage container to the vehicle. The passive attachment device automatically secures the storage container to the vehicle when the storage container is positioned in place on the vehicle. The attachment system also includes an active attachment device manually operable by a user to selectively lock the storage container in place on the vehicle when the storage container is secured to the vehicle via the passive attachment device. The active attachment device prevents motion of the storage container relative to the vehicle when the active attachment device is engaged so as to lock the storage container in place on the vehicle. A vehicle including the storage container and the attachment system is also provided. A storage container assembly including the storage container and passive and active attachment devices is also provided.