Vehicle Load Carrier Friction Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load carriers for vehicles, such as bike carriers, are cumbersome to operate and store due to the need for two-handed operation to unfold and secure the pivotable load receiving sections, which can lead to difficulty in reaching the release lever and potential rattling during vehicle travel.
Innovation Solution
A load carrier with a locking mechanism comprising a first and second locking member co-axially arranged around a pivot axis, which creates a friction force to secure the pivot arm in either the operative or storage position, allowing single-handed operation and reducing rattling by applying a force to overcome the friction force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hook securing mechanism with release lever is used to secure pivotable load receiving sections, then the load carrier can be secured in folded and unfolded positions, but the release lever is hard to reach and requires two-handed operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional hook and release lever mechanism from the load carrier. Instead, it uses a friction-based locking system where the pivot arm itself creates the securing force through friction against the base frame, eliminating the need for separate securing components and simplifying operation to a single-handed action.
Solution Approach 2:
The load carrier's pivot arm automatically secures itself in position through friction forces generated during pivoting. The system self-regulates between folded and unfolded positions without requiring external locking mechanisms or manual intervention beyond the initial pivoting action.
2Reliability
If traditional securing mechanisms are used, then the load receiving sections can be locked, but the operation becomes cumbersome and requires two hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates complex locking mechanisms, hooks, and release levers. The securing function is achieved through the inherent friction between the pivot arm and base frame during normal pivoting operation, dramatically reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of how securing is achieved - from mechanical interlocking (hooks and latches) to friction-based securing. This parameter change simplifies the mechanism while maintaining the ability to reliably secure the load carrier in position.
3Volume of moving object
If the load carrier is made foldable for compact storage, then it can be tucked away easily, but the securing mechanism becomes harder to reach and operate
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the release lever and hook mechanism entirely, the patent eliminates the accessibility problem. The friction-based system allows the user to operate the load carrier from any position without needing to reach for or manipulate separate components, making it equally easy to operate whether folded or unfolded.
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 enhances user friendliness by allowing single-handed operation and secures the load carrier in position, preventing rattling during vehicle travel, thus improving the overall user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a friction force and/or a mechanical force between the first locking member and the second locking member secures the at least one pivot arm in the operative position and/or in the storage position
Implementation Method 2
a friction force and/or a mechanical force between the first locking member and the second locking member secures the at least one pivot arm
Data Source
AI summary
A load carrier for a vehicle adapted to be mounted on the vehicle for transporting a load. The load carrier includes at least one pivot arm pivotably connected about a pivot axis to a base frame at a pivot connection portion. The at least one pivot arm is pivotable between an operative position and a storage position. The load carrier is adapted to at least partly carry the load when the at least one pivot arm is positioned in the operative position. The load carrier can include a locking mechanism for securing the at least one pivot arm in the operative position and in the storage position.