Foam Insert for Logistics Strip Debris Block

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Solution Overview

Problem

Debris from within the trailer's storage container enters the logistics strip assembly through slots, causing contamination and corrosion by accumulating between the logistics strip and the splicing plate.

Innovation Solution

A logistics assembly with a deformable foam insert that blocks debris from entering the channel between the logistics strip and the splicing plate, using adhesive attachment to the splicing plate and compressibility to fit through slots, ensuring each slot is covered to prevent debris entry.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If slots are provided in the logistics strip assembly for receiving logistics clips, then cargo securing functionality is enabled, but debris can enter through the slots and cause contamination and corrosion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecargo securing functionalityVSAvoiddebris contamination and corrosion
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The logistics strip assembly is segmented into functional zones: slots for clip reception and a protected channel for debris prevention. The insert divides the interior space, creating a barrier that segments the debris flow path from the vulnerable channel area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An insert acts as an intermediary element positioned within the logistics strip assembly. This intermediate component blocks debris from reaching the channel while maintaining slot functionality for logistics clips, mediating between the need for access and the need for protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the insert blocks all slots to prevent debris entry, then contamination is prevented, but logistics clips cannot be attached to the slots

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedebris contamination preventionVSAvoidlogistics clip attachment
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The insert provides dynamic functionality by being removable or reconfigurable. When debris prevention is needed, the insert remains in place blocking the slots. When logistics operations require clip attachment, the insert can be removed or adjusted to open the slots, providing adaptable response to different operational states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The insert is pre-installed in the logistics strip assembly during manufacturing, providing immediate debris protection. When logistics clips need to be attached, the insert is temporarily removed or adjusted, allowing slot access without requiring complex modification to the assembly structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Prevents debris from contaminating the cargo and corroding the trailer components by effectively blocking debris entry through the slots while allowing logistics clips to be securely attached without hindrance.

Implementation Method 1

The foam may include an outer surface having an adhesive attached thereto such that foam may be adhesively coupled to the splicing plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

the insert may be configured to be deformed by hand and inserted from the inside of the trailer through the logistics slot and into the channel between the logistics strip and the splicing plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Data Source

PatentUS9242591B2Insert for logistics slot in logistics strip assembly
Publication Date: 2016.01.26 WABASH NATIONAL CORP
  • US9242591B2 patent drawing
  • US9242591B2 patent drawing
  • US9242591B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A logistics assembly is configured to be coupled to a sidewall of a trailer. The logistics assembly includes a logistics strip configured to be coupled to an inside surface the sidewall of the trailer and a splicing plate configured to be coupled to an outside surface the sidewall of the trailer. The splicing plate is spaced-apart from the logistics strip to define a channel therebetween, and the logistics strip includes a plurality of vertically-spaced slots aligned with the channel. The logistics assembly further includes an insert engaged with the logistics strip and the splicing plate. The insert is configured to block access from inside the trailer through at least one slot of the logistics strip in order to prevent debris from entering through the slot and into a channel between the logistics strip and the splicing plate.