Load Securing Device with Integrated Counter Bearing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load securing devices for vehicles lack efficient and secure mechanisms for one-handed operation, secure positioning, and reduced rattling, especially in rail systems, due to limitations in actuation and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a base body, load connection element, latching elements with convex sections, and an actuation section that moves vertically and horizontally, allowing for one-handed operation and secure locking into a rail with complementary locking recesses and projections, utilizing springs for preload and automatic locking, ensuring secure positioning and reduced rattling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism with multiple components is used to secure loads in a rail system, then the security and reliability of load positioning is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the actuating section and counter bearing into a single integrated component that performs multiple functions. The actuating section includes an actuating element for manual operation and simultaneously serves as a counter bearing that interacts with convex sections on locking elements. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining the security function through the integrated mechanism that controls locking element movement between retracted and extended positions.
2Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism with multiple components is used to secure loads, then the security of load positioning is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating section integrates the actuating element and counter bearing into one component that can be operated with a single hand. The actuating element can be pressed to move the integrated counter bearing, which simultaneously interacts with convex sections on locking elements to control their movement between retracted and extended positions, enabling secure locking and unlocking with one hand.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates springs that automatically move locking elements between retracted and extended positions based on the state of the actuating section. When the actuating section is released, the springs automatically return locking elements to their locked extended position, providing automatic self-service functionality that reduces manual intervention and simplifies operation.
3Reliability
If locking elements are designed to move horizontally between retracted and extended positions, then the security against displacement is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuating section and counter bearing into a single integrated component. This integrated design reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining the horizontal movement function of locking elements between retracted and extended positions. The integrated actuating section includes convex sections that directly interact with the locking elements, controlling their horizontal movement through a unified mechanism rather than separate components.
4Reliability
If a rail system with locking recesses and projections is used, then the security against removal and sliding is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rail system is segmented into distinct functional features: locking recesses for engagement with locking lugs, projections for preventing removal, and guide elements for positioning. The locking elements themselves are segmented with separate locking lugs that engage with the rail recesses. This segmentation allows each feature to be manufactured independently using standard rail profiling techniques, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining security against removal and sliding.
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
Enables secure, one-handed operation and positioning of loads within a vehicle rail system, reducing rattling and displacement risks, while maintaining simplicity and avoiding errors from rotational misalignment.
Implementation Method 1
The locking elements are pre-tensioned in the direction of the extended position, so that the convex sections of the locking elements move the counter bearing into the raised position when no actuation occurs.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (1) for securing a load in a vehicle, comprising a base body (2), a load attachment element (3), at least two locking elements (5), and an actuating section (7), is characterized in that the locking elements (5) each comprise at least one convex section (6), wherein the locking elements (5) are arranged so that they can move horizontally and reversibly relative to the base body (2) between a retracted and an extended position, wherein the device (1) further comprises a counter bearing (4) which is arranged so that it can move vertically and reversibly relative to the base body (1) between a lowered and a raised position, wherein the counter bearing (4) is further configured to come into contact with the convex sections (6), wherein the device (1) is configured such that actuation of the actuating section (7) moves the counter bearing (4) into the lowered position.wherein the counter bearing (4) interacts with the convex sections (6) of the locking elements (5) during a downward movement such that the locking elements (5) are moved into the retracted position, and wherein the locking elements (5) are further biased in the direction of the extended position, so that the convex sections (6) of the locking elements (5) move the counter bearing (4) into the raised position when no actuation occurs.