Removable Cargo Tie-Down with Hinged Clamping Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo tie-down systems in vehicles are inflexible, require tools for installation, and can interfere with cargo, limiting the ability to secure items at various locations and potentially leading to shifting during transport.
Innovation Solution
A removable retaining apparatus with a base member and pivotable plate member connected by a hinge, which engages the edges of a fixed plate to apply a compressive force for securement, allowing for easy installation and removal without tools, and featuring a locking mechanism to prevent accidental release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent tie-down attachments are used, then cargo can be secured firmly, but the attachments require tools for installation and cannot be easily repositioned
Solution Approach 1:
The tie-down system is divided into a removable attachment component and a fixed plate component. The removable attachment can be independently installed and removed without tools, while the fixed plate remains permanently mounted on the cargo bed. This segmentation allows easy installation/removal of the attachment while maintaining firm cargo security through the fixed plate connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The tie-down attachment transitions from a static permanent fixture to a dynamic removable component. The attachment can be easily installed and removed by hand, allowing flexible repositioning and adaptation to different cargo configurations while maintaining secure fastening when installed.
2Reliability
If permanent tie-down attachments are used, then cargo can be secured firmly, but the attachments are inflexible with respect to locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the fixed location component (permanently mounted fixed plate) from the movable attachment component. Multiple fixed plates can be installed at different cargo bed locations, and the removable attachment can be moved between them, providing both firm security at each location and flexibility in positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable attachment is designed with universal compatibility to work with fixed plates at various locations in the cargo bed. A single attachment design can be used across multiple fixed plate positions, enabling flexible repositioning while maintaining consistent securement performance.
3Reliability
If tie-down attachments are permanently affixed, then cargo can be secured, but the attachments interfere with cargo stored in the cargo bed
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment component is extracted from the permanent fixed structure, allowing it to be removed when not needed for cargo securement. This extraction eliminates the interference with cargo storage space while maintaining the capability for firm cargo security when the attachment is installed and needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment transitions from a permanent obstruction to a dynamic, removable component. When removed, the cargo bed storage space is fully accessible without interference. When installed, the attachment provides securement functionality, allowing flexible adaptation between storage and securement needs.
4Ease of operation
If removable tie-down attachments are used, then installation is easy without tools, but the attachments may accidentally release during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment incorporates a spring-loaded locking mechanism that automatically engages with the fixed plate upon installation without requiring tools. The spring bias ensures automatic locking, while the design allows easy manual release when needed, providing both ease of operation and securement reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed with a spring-loaded safety feature that prevents accidental release. The spring maintains constant engagement pressure, and the geometry of the locking surfaces is configured to require deliberate manual action for release, cushioning against inadvertent disengagement during transport vibrations and movements.
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 flexible and secure cargo tie-down at various locations within the vehicle cargo bed, preventing shifting and enhancing cargo security while deterring theft by blocking tool access to the securing points.
Implementation Method 1
The pivotable plate member actuates to clamp the fixed plate between the first protrusion and the second protrusion
Implementation Method 2
causing a compressive force across opposing edges of the fixed plate to secure the retaining apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining apparatus includes a base member having a first protrusion engaging an edge of a fixed plate and a floating hinge connected to the base member. The retaining apparatus also includes a pivotable plate member pivotally connected to the hinge. The pivotable plate member also defines a second protrusion engaging an opposing edge of the fixed plate. The pivotable plate member actuates to clamp the fixed plate between the first protrusion and the second protrusion.