Electromagnetic Cargo Tie-Down System with Pulsed Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tie-down systems for securing cargo in vehicle cargo spaces are often complex and require multiple steps or equipment, lacking flexibility and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic tie-down system with a vehicle-mounted magnetic assembly and a tie-down featuring a magnetically secureable design, utilizing a residual magnetic device that can be energized or de-energized with a control module and input signals to lock or unlock the cargo, allowing for simple and efficient securing and releasing of cargo.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional tie-down systems are used to secure cargo, then cargo can be secured, but the system becomes complex and requires multiple steps or equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical tie-down systems with magnetic fields. Electromagnets mounted in the vehicle cargo space can magnetically attract and secure cargo without mechanical fasteners, buckles, or multiple adjustment steps, significantly simplifying the system while maintaining securing effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic tie-down system serves multiple functions: it can secure various types of cargo (metallic and non-metallic with magnetic properties), provide adjustable holding positions, and enable easy release by simply deactivating the electromagnet. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized equipment for different cargo types
2Extent of automation
If electromagnetic actuation is used to control magnetic attraction, then locking and unlocking becomes automated, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnet operates using periodic pulsed activation rather than continuous power supply. The control module activates the electromagnet only when cargo needs to be secured or released, keeping it in a low-power state during idle periods. This periodic operation maintains automation capability while dramatically reducing overall power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic attraction force naturally maintains the locked state without requiring continuous energy input. Once the electromagnet is activated to create the magnetic field, it self-sustains the attraction force passively, requiring no additional energy until release is commanded. This self-service characteristic reduces power consumption while maintaining automated control
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
The magnetic tie-down system provides flexible and efficient cargo securing without the need for complex equipment, allowing for easy installation and removal of cargo items, reducing power consumption, and offering customizable orientations within the vehicle cargo space.
Implementation Method 1
In response to a first pulse of current, the first magnet and the second magnet are magnetically attracted to one another for locking the tie-down in place relative to the panel
Implementation Method 2
In response to a second pulse of current, the first magnet and the second magnet are magnetically repelled from one another for unlocking the tie-down relative to the panel
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure details tie-down systems for securing cargo within vehicle cargo spaces. An exemplary tie-down system may include a vehicle-mounted magnetic assembly and a tie-down that may be magnetically connected to the magnetic assembly for securing cargo within the cargo space. A magnet of the magnetic assembly may be energized to hold the tie-down and cargo in place within the cargo space or de-energized to release the tie-down and the cargo relative to the cargo space.