Pivoting System for Electronic Device on Cargo Platform

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pivoting systems for devices on cargo platforms do not efficiently pivot electronic devices between horizontal and vertical positions concurrently with the cargo platform, nor are they easily adjustable or cost-effective for installation.

Innovation Solution

A pivoting system that couples a cargo platform with a cargo support, using a linkage rod and pivots to adjust an electronic device between vertical and horizontal positions, allowing for adjustable positioning and easy installation, incorporating a base, frame, and linkage mechanism to maintain the electronic device's optimal orientation during platform position changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a device is mounted on a cargo platform that pivots between vertical and horizontal positions, then the device must adapt to multiple orientations, but the device structure becomes complex and difficult to adjust

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice orientation adaptabilityVSAvoidpivoting mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the device housing with the pivoting mechanism into a single integrated unit. The housing itself acts as the pivoting structure, eliminating the need for separate complex mounting mechanisms. This merging reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to adapt to different cargo platform orientations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed with universal mounting capabilities that work across different cargo platform configurations. The pivoting mechanism serves multiple functions: it accommodates vertical positions, horizontal positions, and intermediate angles, making the device versatile for various towing and cargo scenarios without requiring configuration changes.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing pivoting systems are used for devices on cargo platforms, then the device can change orientation, but the system is not cost-effective and difficult to install

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveorientation adjustment capabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease and cost-effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into modular components: a housing section, a pivoting mechanism section, and a mounting interface section. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual parts and easier assembly during installation. Each module can be produced independently and then assembled, reducing manufacturing complexity and installation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a simplified intermediate mounting structure that bridges the device and the cargo platform. This intermediary component handles the complex pivoting mechanics while presenting a simple installation interface to the user, making the overall system easier to manufacture and install despite the sophisticated orientation adjustment capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If an electronic device is mounted on a pivoting cargo platform, then the device can maintain optimal orientation, but the mounting system becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice orientation stabilityVSAvoidmounting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pivoting mechanism is designed to create equipotential positions where the device naturally stabilizes in optimal orientations. By configuring the mechanical linkages and pivot points appropriately, the system allows gravity and mechanical forces to automatically guide the device to stable, optimal viewing angles without requiring complex active control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is designed to self-adjust and self-stabilize the device orientation. The pivoting mechanism includes features that automatically maintain optimal positioning through mechanical means such as gravity alignment, friction-based holding, or elastic recovery, eliminating the need for complex electronic sensors, motors, or control systems to maintain reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11007919B2Pivoting system and method for an electrical device of a hitch-attached platform
Publication Date: 2021.05.18 HARMAR MOBILITY LLC
  • US11007919B2 patent drawing
  • US11007919B2 patent drawing
  • US11007919B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A pivoting system has an electronic device pivotably mounted on a cargo platform. A base is coupled to a cargo support. A linkage rod slidably engages with the cargo platform. A proximal pivot pivotably couples the proximal end of the linkage rod arm to the base. A device pivot pivotably couples the electronic device to the cargo platform. A distal pivot pivotably couples the distal end of the linkage rod to the electronic device. The pivoting system causes pivoting of the electronic device between a lower general horizontal position and an upper general horizontal position.