Load Restraint Bar for Walkway Cargo in Delivery Vans
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing configuration of delivery vans with a central walkway reduces the cargo storage volume, leading to underutilization of vehicle capacity during last mile delivery.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising elongate supports and a rigid load restraint tool with projections and a clamp to secure cargo in place within the walkway, preventing movement and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a central walkway is provided in the delivery van, then access to shelving is improved, but cargo storage volume is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint bar is designed to be movable along the supports, allowing it to be positioned dynamically. During loading, the bar can be moved to allow access to the walkway, and during transit, it is positioned to secure cargo, thus adapting the space configuration between operation and transport modes
Solution Approach 2:
The restraint bar extends into the third dimension by protruding beyond the plane of the supports, creating a physical barrier that constrains cargo in the vertical dimension while maintaining horizontal walkway access when not in use
2Productivity
If intermodal containers are loaded into the walkway, then cargo capacity utilization is improved, but cargo movement control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint bar acts as an intermediary mechanism between the cargo containers and the vehicle structure. It provides a simple mechanical interface that secures containers without requiring complex locking systems, making movement control easier while maximizing cargo capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The restraint function is extracted as a separate, independent component (the restraint bar) that can be independently operated. This simplifies the overall system by separating the securing function from the cargo and vehicle structure, making it easier to control cargo movement
3Reliability
If a rigid load restraint tool with clamp is used, then cargo constraint reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the bar itself, the projections for positioning, and the clamp for securing. This modular segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while keeping the overall system simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex active locking mechanism, the design uses passive geometric constraints (projections fitting into recesses) combined with a simple clamp. The reliability comes from the inverted approach of using geometry rather than complex mechanics to ensure proper positioning and constraint
Data Source
AI summary
A system for restraining intermodular cargo being transported in a hold of vehicle. The system comprises a load restraint bar arranged to extend between, and clamp against, parallel supporting surfaces such as provided by shelving arranged on either side of the hold. The load restraint bar includes longitudinal extending projections about which the load restraint bar seats on and can slide along the shelving to position the restraint 10 member against the cargo. The load restraint bar also including a projection that extends over or against the cargo to constrain vertical movement of the cargo away from the floor of the hold.