Offset Anchor Ring for Flush Truck Bed Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening ring systems for securing loads on truck or trailer beds face challenges in accommodating openings that do not align exactly, leading to interference and aesthetic issues when not in use.
Innovation Solution
The proposed anchor point assembly includes a u-shaped anchor ring with a locking pin and detente spring, allowing it to slide between extended and retracted positions, and is designed to fit flush with decorative caps and side walls, with adjustable orientation to accommodate misaligned openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the anchor ring is permanently extended for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the aesthetic appearance and visual interference worsen when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor ring is designed to be movable between extended and retracted positions through a sliding mechanism with clearance holes. This dynamic configuration allows the ring to be extended for easy access during loading/unloading operations and retracted to be substantially flush with the top surface of the top plate when not in use, eliminating visual interference and improving aesthetic appearance.
2Shape
If the anchor ring housing is designed to fit precisely with decorative caps, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the adaptability to misaligned openings worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The top plate is designed with an offset configuration where the anchor ring housing is positioned at an offset from the center. This asymmetric design allows the housing to fit flush with decorative caps having rectangular openings while accommodating misalignments between the decorative cap openings and the truck bed side wall openings, thus maintaining aesthetic appearance while improving adaptability.
3Reliability
If the anchor ring is fixed in position for structural stability, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation and aesthetic appearance worsen due to constant visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor ring is designed to be movable between extended and retracted positions through a sliding mechanism with clearance holes. This dynamic configuration allows the ring to be extended for easy access during loading/unloading operations and retracted to be substantially flush with the top surface of the top plate when not in use, eliminating visual interference and improving aesthetic appearance.
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
This solution ensures secure load retention without visual interference, as the anchor ring can be easily hidden when not in use, and fits seamlessly with various truck bed configurations, enhancing both functionality and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a detente spring, allowing it to slide between extended and retracted positions
Data Source
AI summary
An anchor point for mounting on a hauling apparatus for securing a tie down line on an anchor ring, comprising an anchor ring mounting in an anchor ring housing. The anchor ring housing has a top flat plate member that is offset relative to the anchor ring so that its length extends farther from the anchor ring on one side of the anchor ring so it will fit flush in an opening in a hauling apparatus. The top flat member is offset relative to the transverse centerline of the anchor ring so that the distance from the transverse centerline and a longitudinal side of the top flat plate member is greater than the opposed longitudinal side of the top flat plate member. The anchor ring may be oriented at an acute angle from the top flat plate member or may be perpendicular to the top flat plate member.