Flush Mount Anchor Point With Retractable Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tie-down anchor fixtures for securing loads are complex, expensive, and not easily flush mountable, making them unsuitable for applications where a discreet and simple fastening system is required.
Innovation Solution
A flush-mountable anchor point system comprising a front housing, a rear housing, a U-shaped anchor ring with a locking pin, and machine screws, allowing the anchor ring to slide between extended and retracted positions, secured by a detente spring for easy manual stowing, and integrated into truck side rails or decorative strips for concealment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional tie-down anchor fixtures are used, then the anchor point can secure loads, but the device becomes complex and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor point is divided into separate functional components: a housing unit, a retractable anchor ring, a detente spring mechanism, and a locking pin. Each component performs a specific function and can be manufactured independently, simplifying the overall construction while maintaining load securing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor ring is extracted as a separate retractable element from the housing, allowing it to be stored inside the housing when not in use and deployed only when needed. This separation reduces the visible complexity of the installed anchor point while preserving its full functionality
2Reliability
If conventional tie-down anchor fixtures are used, then the anchor point can secure loads, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the anchor point into standardizable components (housing, anchor ring, spring mechanism), each part can be manufactured using conventional processes and assembled, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The design uses simple, inexpensive materials and components that can be easily replaced if needed, such as the detente spring and locking pin, which are straightforward to manufacture and replace, reducing overall system cost
3Reliability
If conventional tie-down anchor fixtures are used, then the anchor point can secure loads, but it cannot be front and flush mounted
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor ring nests inside the housing when retracted, allowing the entire assembly to have a compact, flush-mounted profile. The anchor ring can be pulled out from the housing when needed, enabling front mounting while maintaining a clean appearance when not in use
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor ring transitions between a retracted position (nested in housing) and an extended position (pulled out for use), allowing the anchor point to adapt its shape according to whether it is in use or stowed, enabling flush mounting
4Shape
If the anchor ring is made retractable for improved appearance, then visibility is reduced, but operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The detente spring automatically engages with the locking pin to hold the anchor ring in the extended position when pulled out, and automatically returns it to the retracted position when released. This self-locking and self-returning mechanism simplifies operation while maintaining the retractable appearance benefit
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 solution provides a cost-effective, simple, and durable fastening system that is easy to install and operate, maintaining an excellent appearance while being invisible when not in use, offering improved installation and operational simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
The anchor ring has a detente spring for holding it in the extended position where the spring force is easily overcome manually for stowing the anchor ring out of sight.
Data Source
AI summary
An anchor point is mounted within an aperture of a wall of a molded strip wherein a recessed peripheral shoulder of the aperture receives a flange of the anchor point and fills the aperture flush with a top surface of the molding. A locking plate of the fastening system contacts the recessed shoulder which is therefore clamped between the locking plate and the flange. A ring of the fastening system is movable between an extended position for receiving a line, and a retracted position hidden below the top surface of the molding when not in use.