No-Drill Loading Ramp Brackets Using Factory Van Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mounting loading ramps to utility vans often requires drilling dedicated holes, which can void warranties, reduce resale value, and compromise the van's structure.
Innovation Solution
Brackets with horizontal and vertical portions, including apertures and rail members, are designed to secure to the van's interior without drilling new holes, using existing factory holes for installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If mounting brackets are secured to the van by drilling dedicated holes, then the loading ramp can be firmly mounted, but the van's structure is compromised and warranties are voided
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket serves as an intermediary component that attaches to the van's existing factory holes through its vertical portion, while the horizontal portion provides a mounting surface for the loading ramp. This mediator approach allows the ramp to be firmly mounted without drilling new holes in the van, thus avoiding structural damage while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is designed to utilize pre-existing factory holes in the van's structure, eliminating the need for new drilling operations. By preparing the mounting solution in advance with pre-positioned apertures that align with factory holes, the system achieves firm mounting without compromising the van's structural integrity.
2Strength
If mounting brackets are secured by drilling dedicated holes, then the loading ramp can be firmly mounted, but warranties and resale value are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket acts as an intermediary that interfaces with the van through existing factory holes rather than creating new openings. This approach preserves the van's original structure and warranty status while still providing secure mounting capability for the loading ramp through the bracket's horizontal and vertical portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket design incorporates apertures that are pre-configured to align with and utilize existing factory holes in the van. This preliminary preparation allows for warranty-compliant installation that maintains both mounting firmness and warranty validity without requiring destructive drilling operations.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If brackets are designed to fit without drilling, then the van's structure is preserved, but mounting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is segmented into distinct functional portions: a vertical portion with apertures for attaching to the van's factory holes, and a horizontal portion for mounting the loading ramp. This segmentation allows the bracket to preserve structural integrity while managing mounting complexity through modular, purpose-specific design elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket serves multiple functions within a single component: it attaches to the van structure through its vertical portion, provides a horizontal mounting surface for the ramp, and utilizes existing factory holes. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite the non-drilling requirement, as one component performs multiple mounting tasks.
Data Source
AI summary
Brackets for mounting a loading ramp to a utility van without drilling the van's structure can include a horizontal plate portion and a vertical portion. The vertical portion is joined to a perimeter edge of the horizontal portion. The vertical portion includes a main portion and a flange extending from a vertical side of the main portion. Apertures can be provided in the vertical portion and horizontal portions so that the brackets can be secured to the interior of the van without drilling new holes in the van. The brackets are shaped so that the rear doors of the van can close without interference in the normal manner.