Modular Skid Quick-Release Locking for Secure Cargo Bed Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing skid units lack a secure and efficient method for quickly attaching and detaching modular components, such as seats and storage boxes, from vehicle cargo beds, which limits their versatility and adaptability for different applications.
Innovation Solution
A quick release assembly with locking elements on both the cargo bed and modular components, allowing for easy attachment and detachment by aligning and engaging locking elements, and using a lever-operated locking mechanism to secure the components in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional attachment methods are used for modular components, then the components can be securely attached to the cargo bed, but the attachment and detachment process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate locking elements: first locking elements fixed to the cargo bed and second locking elements on the modular component. This segmentation allows the component to be quickly engaged with the cargo bed by simply lowering it onto the locking elements, enabling rapid attachment without complex fastening procedures while maintaining secure connection through the distributed locking points.
Solution Approach 2:
The first locking elements are pre-installed and fixed to the cargo bed in advance. When a modular component needs to be attached, the user only needs to align and lower the component's second locking elements onto these pre-positioned first locking elements. This preliminary preparation of the locking system enables quick attachment without requiring time-consuming assembly or adjustment during the attachment process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are designed for quick attachment, then the versatility and adaptability of skid units is enhanced, but the secure locking and stability of attached components may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system uses multiple distributed locking elements (first locking elements on the cargo bed and corresponding second locking elements on each modular component) rather than a single locking mechanism. This segmentation provides multiple attachment points that collectively secure the component firmly to the cargo bed, maintaining reliability while allowing different component configurations for various applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed with complementary geometries (protruding ends of second locking elements fitting into receiving channels of first locking elements) that create uniform engagement across all attachment points. This equipotential design ensures that each locking element contributes equally to the overall security and stability of the attached component, preventing any single weak point while maintaining quick attachment capability.
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used to secure modular components, then the attachment is more secure, but the ease of operation and quick release capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring active engagement (such as tightening bolts or activating latches) to secure the modular component, the system is designed so that the component is passively secured by simply lowering it onto the locking elements. The protruding ends of the second locking elements naturally engage with the receiving channels of the first locking elements through gravity and alignment, inverting the traditional approach where active force is needed to create the secure attachment. This enables both security and ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular skid units are provided that are versatile and easily configurable for particular applications. In some examples, a modular design allows for many different combinations of modular components, such as seats, canine boxes, storage boxes, patient transport units, etc. In some examples, the modular and quick release nature of the system enables users to selectively remove and attach the modular components as needed for a given task, including the ability to quickly and easily change the modular components in the field to meet the specific needs of a mission or task. In some examples, the modular components include quick release locking mechanisms that include a set of locking elements for quickly and easily switching components.