Magnetic Vehicle Guard Securing Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle guard systems with physical interlocks are vulnerable to corrosion and debris, making them difficult to operate and release, especially under adverse environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle guard system that uses a magnetic attraction force to secure and release the guard structure, eliminating the need for physical interlocks and reducing vulnerability to corrosion and debris accumulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a physical interlock latch is used to secure the guard structure, then the guard can be held firmly in the operational position, but the latch becomes vulnerable to corrosion and debris accumulation making it difficult to operate and release
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical latch system with a magnetic field-based securing mechanism. Magnets embedded in the mounting structure interact with ferromagnetic material in the guard structure to provide securing force, eliminating mechanical moving parts that are susceptible to corrosion and debris accumulation. This substitution maintains reliable securing while dramatically improving ease of operation, as the guard can be released simply by overcoming the magnetic force rather than manipulating a mechanical latch.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the securing mechanism from mechanical contact forces to magnetic field forces. By using magnetic attraction rather than mechanical interlocking, the system eliminates the need for precise mechanical tolerances and moving parts. The magnetic force can be adjusted by selecting appropriate magnet strengths and configurations, providing reliable securing that is insensitive to environmental factors like corrosion and debris.
2Ease of operation
If a mechanical latch with moving parts is used, then the guard can be secured and released, but the moving parts are susceptible to corrosion and debris accumulation over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical moving parts by using a magnetic field for both securing and releasing the guard. The magnetic securing structure contains no moving parts that can corrode or accumulate debris. To release the guard, one simply needs to apply sufficient force to overcome the magnetic attraction, thereby eliminating vulnerability to corrosion and debris while maintaining full release capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the mounting structure and the guard structure. This magnetic field acts as a non-contact force mediator that provides securing without physical contact, eliminating the need for mechanical interfaces that are susceptible to corrosion and debris. The ferromagnetic material in the guard structure serves as the intermediary that interacts with the magnets to produce the securing force.
3Reliability
If a physical interlock system is used to hold the guard, then secure mounting is achieved, but the system requires complex latch mechanisms that are difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical latch system with a simple magnetic securing mechanism. The magnets are embedded in the mounting structure and require no maintenance, adjustment, or repair. The magnetic field continuously provides securing force without wear or degradation, eliminating the maintenance difficulties associated with mechanical latches while maintaining reliable mounting security.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic securing structure is self-maintaining in that it requires no active maintenance, adjustment, or intervention. The magnets continuously provide the necessary securing force without wear, and the system automatically compensates for any variations in conditions. There are no moving parts to lubricate, tighten, or replace, making the system essentially maintenance-free while maintaining reliable mounting security.
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 magnetic securing system ensures reliable operation and maintenance of the guard structure by minimizing the impact of corrosion and debris, allowing for easy tilting and reducing operational difficulties over time.
Implementation Method 1
The guard securing structure may be configured to secure the guard structure in the first position using magnetic attraction force
Data Source
AI summary
A guard apparatus for mounting on a vehicle may comprise a guard structure comprising a plurality of bars joined together and having a major plane, a guard mounting structure configured to mount the guard structure to the vehicle in a manner permitting movement of the major plane of the guard structure between a first position and a second position, and a guard securing structure configured to secure the guard structure in the first position and release the guard structure to move toward the second position. The guard securing structure may be configured to secure the guard structure in the first position using magnetic attraction force.