Elastic Receiver Slot for Quick Tool Retention on Utility Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility vehicles require complex multi-step engagement features like locks, latches, and straps to secure tools, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An attachment system with a receiver having a slot and elastic member that allows for simple, tool-free securement of items by inserting them into a slot, where the elastic member elongates to secure the item in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locks, latches, and straps are used to secure tools, then the tools are securely held, but the operation becomes cumbersome and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex multi-step engagement features (locks, latches, straps) from the mounting system and replaces them with a simple receiver-slot interface. The tool is simply inserted into a receiver slot, eliminating the need for separate securing mechanisms while maintaining reliability through the elastic member's retaining force.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member automatically engages with the tool when inserted into the receiver, providing self-securing functionality. The tool itself, when placed in the correct orientation, triggers the elastic member to engage without requiring additional user actions to activate locks or latches.
2Reliability
If multiple engagement features are used, then the tool is securely retained, but the number of steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into distinct functional zones within the receiver: a mouth for insertion, a throat for guiding, and a seat for retention. This segmentation allows the tool to be mounted in a single continuous motion through the zones, eliminating the need for multiple discrete engagement steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member is pre-positioned and pre-loaded within the receiver, ready to engage the tool immediately upon insertion. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for the user to manually activate securing mechanisms during the mounting process.
3Reliability
If complex retention mechanisms are used, then the tool is securely held, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate components (locks, latches, straps) into a single integrated receiver structure with an elastic member. This consolidation maintains the securing function while dramatically reducing the number of discrete parts and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate various tool types through its slot configuration. The same receiver structure performs multiple functions: guiding insertion, providing retention, and enabling quick release, eliminating the need for different mechanisms for different tools.
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 carrying of items on utility vehicles without the need for tools or complex retention mechanisms, facilitating easy insertion and removal with a single-motion process.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic member is configured to elongate as the item moves into the throat of the slot, and contract as the item moves into the seat. The elastic member is configured to releasably secure the item within the seat.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment system for carrying or holding an item such as a tool. The attachment system may include one or more receivers that receive and hold the item. The attachment system may also include an elastic member associated with each receiver, wherein the elastic member may deform or deflect during insertion of the item into the receiver and ultimately secure the item in place.