Linear Retractable Cable Lock for Concealed Vehicle Securement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Recreational vehicle users face challenges in mounting a securement device, such as a retractable cable lock, without detracting from the vehicle's appearance, as existing solutions often require external components that are unsightly.
Innovation Solution
A retractable cable lock is designed in a linear configuration, mounted within the vehicle bumper or frame, with components housed inside, featuring a retractable mechanism that extends for securing items and retracts when not in use, using a pulley system and retraction prevention devices like cams or magnets to maintain the extended position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a retractable cable lock is mounted externally on the vehicle, then the securement function is provided, but the vehicle appearance is detracted
Solution Approach 1:
The cable lock mechanism is nested within the bumper structure. The cable is housed inside the bumper with only the necessary operational portions extending outward, allowing the securement function to be provided while maintaining the vehicle's aesthetic appearance. The bumper itself serves as the housing structure for the retraction mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable lock transitions from a two-dimensional external mounting to a three-dimensional integrated structure within the bumper. The cable extends and retracts along the longitudinal axis of the bumper, utilizing the bumper's internal volume to house the mechanism while providing external securement capability when needed.
2Ease of operation
If the cable is extended for securing items, then the securement capability is enabled, but the cable remains exposed when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The cable lock features a dynamic retraction mechanism that allows the cable to transition between extended and retracted states. When not in use, the cable automatically retracts into the bumper housing, changing its configuration from exposed to concealed while maintaining ease of operation when securement is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The retraction mechanism is designed to automatically pull the cable back into the bumper housing when the securing operation is complete. This self-service retraction eliminates the need for manual retraction by the user, automatically returning the cable to its concealed state while preserving the ease of extending the cable when needed.
3Reliability
If a traditional external cable lock is used, then the securement function is provided, but the device complexity increases due to external mounting components
Solution Approach 1:
The cable lock mechanism is merged with the bumper structure. The bumper serves dual purposes: as the vehicle's protective component and as the housing for the cable retraction mechanism. This integration eliminates the need for separate external mounting brackets, housings, and support structures, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the securement function.
Solution Approach 2:
The bumper structure serves multiple functions: it provides vehicle protection, houses the cable retraction mechanism, supports the cable lock operation, and maintains the vehicle's aesthetic appearance. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated external mounting components, reducing device complexity while preserving the securement capability.
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 securement of items without altering the vehicle's appearance, ensuring the cable remains extended when needed and retracts neatly, enhancing usability and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
The cable can be extended for use in securing and locking items, and then retracted when not in use
Implementation Method 2
using a pulley system and retraction prevention devices like cams or magnets to maintain the extended position
Implementation Method 3
using a pulley system and retraction prevention devices like cams or magnets to maintain the extended position
Data Source
AI summary
A linear retractable cable lock comprises a retractable cable lock that is presented in a linear configuration, adapted for mounting, for example in a recreational vehicle bumper, to a vehicle frame, in a truck bed. The cable can be extended for use in securing and locking items, and then retracted when not in use, with the cable conveniently housed inside the bumper, in the bed or to the frame, providing a useful device but not detracting from the appearance of the vehicle when not being use.