Movable Rail Partition for Stable Cargo Space Division

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing space division devices for box trucks or containers fail to provide flexible and reliable partitioning of interior space, leading to cargo mixing and instability in divided areas.

Innovation Solution

A space division device featuring a rail system with a movable drive module and partitions that can be adjusted along an upper and lower rail, utilizing a drive motor, worm gear, and rotational mechanisms to create customizable and stable partitions, ensuring independent and secure cargo compartments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed partition structure is used, then the space division is stable and reliable, but the flexibility to adjust space size and shape is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility to adjust space size and shapeVSAvoidstability of partitioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The partition structure is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position along the rail system. The drive module with motor and worm gear mechanism enables the partition to move to different locations while maintaining stable positioning at each location, thus achieving both flexibility and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The partition system is divided into modular components including the partition body, drive module, and rail system. This segmentation allows the partition to be independently positioned and adjusted along the rail, providing flexibility in space division while each component maintains structural stability for reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a movable partition system is implemented, then the flexibility of space division is improved, but the reliability and stability of partitioning deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomizable space divisionVSAvoidstability of divided spaces
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The manual or simple mechanical movable partition system is replaced with an automated drive module incorporating motor and worm gear mechanisms. This provides precise control over partition movement and positioning, ensuring the partition remains stable and reliable at any desired position while maintaining flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The rail system acts as an intermediary between the movable partition and the space box structure. It provides a guided path for the partition to move along while ensuring stable support and positioning, thus maintaining reliability during movement and at stationary positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If simple partitioning is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to prevent cargo mixing and maintain independent spaces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprevention of cargo mixingVSAvoidcomplexity of partition system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The partition system is designed to perform multiple functions: dividing space, preventing cargo mixing, and providing adjustable positioning. The drive module with motor and worm gear not only moves the partition but also maintains it at precise positions, ensuring reliable separation of cargo while the entire system can be controlled through a unified mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of operation

If automated drive mechanisms are added, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjusting partitionsVSAvoidcomplexity of drive system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drive module merges multiple functions into a single integrated unit: the motor provides rotational force, the worm gear converts this to linear motion of the rack, and the rack directly moves the partition. This combination simplifies control while achieving automated operation, as all these components work together in one compact assembly rather than separate systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 easy and reliable division of space into various sizes and shapes, preventing cargo mixing while maintaining stable and durable partitioning, enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a drive motor and a drive worm that is rotated by a rotational force of the drive motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a drive worm that is rotated by a rotational force of the drive motor while engaged with a rack gear provided on the rail

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWorm and rack gear mechanism: Worm Drive

Implementation Method 3

a drive worm that is rotated by a rotational force of the drive motor while engaged with a rack gear provided on the rail along a longitudinal direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Implementation Method 4

The drive module may include a first roller of which rolling motion is guided by the rail

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRolling motion: Roller

Implementation Method 5

A second roller of which rolling motion is guided by the lower rail may be provided at the lower end of the first partition

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRolling motion: Roller

Data Source

PatentUS12065305B2Space division device
Publication Date: 2024.08.20 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12065305B2 patent drawing
  • US12065305B2 patent drawing
  • US12065305B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A space division device includes: a rail installed on an upper side of a space box along a first direction of the space division device, a drive module that is installed to be movable along the rail, and a first partition that is connected to the drive module and forms a surface in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to partition an inner space of the space box.