Vehicle Roof Ladder Fixing Device with Automatic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ladder securing devices for vehicles are difficult to use, especially when the vehicle is high, due to limited access to the rod and insufficient tension if the hook is not properly aligned before locking, making it hard to securely fasten ladders on roof racks.
Innovation Solution
A device with automatic locking means and clamping mechanisms that allow the hook to be tightened towards the crosspiece by actuating an operating member, eliminating the need to manually manipulate the rod, and featuring easily accessible handles for both tightening and releasing, ensuring secure ladder immobilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the user manually pulls on the rod to bring the hook into contact with the roof rack bar and actuates the locking member, then the ladder can be secured to the gallery, but the operation becomes difficult when the vehicle is high and access to the rod is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses self-service through automatic locking means that prevent the hook from moving away from the crosspiece without manual rod manipulation. The system secures itself automatically when the hook contacts the gallery bar, eliminating the need for the user to reach up and manually lock the rod.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (automatic locking means and clamping means with operating member) that mediates between the user's accessible position and the rod's inaccessible position. The operating member transfers the user's downward force into rod movement and automatic locking, serving as a mechanical intermediary that bridges the accessibility gap.
2Reliability
If the hook is not brought closer to the roof rack before locking, then the locking can be performed, but the clamping stroke is too low to install sufficient tension in the rod
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping means with operating member performs preliminary action by automatically bringing the hook closer to the crosspiece before the locking engagement occurs. This preliminary clamping action ensures sufficient rod tension is established before the automatic locking means engages, preventing the insufficient tension problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the clamping function and locking function into a single integrated mechanism. The clamping means with operating member simultaneously performs both the clamping action (bringing hook closer) and triggers the automatic locking, combining two functions that were previously separate into one unified system.
3Ease of operation
If the operating member extends over the crosspiece in service position, then the maneuvering device is easily accessible clear of the uprights and rungs, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The operating member extends in a different spatial dimension (horizontally over the crosspiece) rather than vertically, allowing it to be accessible from the side clear of the ladder uprights and rungs. This dimensional change in the operating member's extension direction provides accessibility without adding vertical complexity to the crosspiece structure.
4Ease of operation
If the release member extends above the operating member, then both tightening and releasing can be done on the same side of the crosspiece, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The same side of the crosspiece serves multiple functions: it accommodates both the operating member for tightening and the release member for releasing. This multi-functional arrangement allows both critical operations to be performed from one accessible location, making the device universal in its operational approach.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a device for fixing a ladder to a vehicle roof rack or similar, the device comprising a crossmember (1) intended to come to bear against the uprights of the ladder, and a rod (5) that ends with a hook (7) and is mounted slidingly through a central portion (4) of the crossmember. The device is provided with automatic locking means (20) preventing the hook from moving away from the crossmember, and clamping means (10,14) comprising a manoeuvring member (15) that can be actuated to cause the rod to slide in the crossmember in such a way as to move the hook towards the crossmember, such that repeated actuations of same result in the ladder being clamped to the roof rack.