Interchangeable Attachment Mounts for Uneven Vehicle Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle module attachment systems are limited by molded-in features that restrict mounting locations and compatibility with uneven vehicle surfaces, lacking flexibility and durability.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable attachment system featuring a module with attachment mounts and interchangeable legs that include rails and a catch mechanism, allowing for slidable engagement and multiple mounting configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If molded-in attachment features are used, then direct mounting to vehicle frame is enabled, but mounting locations are limited and compatibility with uneven surfaces is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate components: a module body and interchangeable attachment legs. The attachment legs can be detached and replaced based on mounting location requirements, allowing the same module to be mounted on various surfaces including uneven ones, thereby improving adaptability without complicating the core module structure
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mount is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of attachment legs with different geometries. This universal design allows a single module to be mounted in various locations and orientations by simply changing the attachment leg, enhancing versatility while maintaining a simple base structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized brackets are used, then mounting flexibility is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of creating custom brackets for each mounting scenario, the system segments the attachment function into standardized attachment legs that can be independently manufactured. Each leg type can be produced using standard manufacturing processes, and the same attachment mount on the module body serves all leg types, simplifying production
Solution Approach 2:
The system accommodates different mounting configurations by changing the parameters of the attachment leg (such as length, angle, and mounting hole positions) while keeping the attachment mount interface standardized. This allows versatile mounting options without requiring complex customization of the main module structure
3Reliability
If molded-in attachment features are used, then attachment durability is reduced on uneven surfaces, but interchangeable legs add assembly complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system allows dynamic reconfiguration by enabling the replacement of attachment legs based on the specific mounting surface conditions. If a surface is uneven or unsuitable, a different leg type can be installed, ensuring optimal contact and durability for each mounting location rather than being constrained by a fixed molded-in feature
Solution Approach 2:
Different attachment legs with varying geometric parameters (length, angle, footprint) can be selected to match specific surface conditions. This parameter variation allows the attachment system to adapt to uneven surfaces and maintain reliable, durable mounting without requiring a complex permanent structure
Data Source
AI summary
An interchangeable attachment system, the system including a module and an interchangeable attachment leg. The module includes a body defined by a top surface, a bottom surface, and a perimeter wall extending around the body and from the top surface of the body to the bottom surface of the body, and an attachment mount disposed on the perimeter wall of the body. The attachment mount includes an outer face extending from the perimeter wall and a pair of rails, the pair of rails extending between the outer face and the perimeter wall. The interchangeable attachment leg includes a vertical body having one or more sidewalls defining a frame. The frame is sized to receive the attachment mount and slidably engage the pair of rails of the attachment mount.