Quick-Release Locking Assembly for Reconfigurable Modular Skid Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing skid units lack a secure and efficient method for attaching and detaching modular components, such as seats and storage boxes, from the cargo bed of vehicles or skid units, which limits their versatility and adaptability for different applications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a quick release assembly with first and second locking elements and a locking mechanism that allows for secure and rapid attachment and detachment of modular components to the cargo bed, utilizing a catch and lever mechanism to lock and unlock the components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
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 becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates a movable catch that transitions between locked and unlocked positions, enabling dynamic attachment and detachment of modular components. The catch moves along a path that engages with the locking element to secure the component, then releases to allow quick removal, making the system adaptable to different operational needs without time-consuming manual fastening
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional elements: a locking element on the modular component, a corresponding receiving structure on the cargo bed, and an independent locking mechanism with a movable catch. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized independently and enables rapid assembly by simply bringing the segmented parts together and engaging the locking mechanism
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional attachment methods are used for modular components, then the components can be firmly secured, but the system lacks versatility for different applications and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed with universal applicability across different modular components and cargo bed configurations. The standardized locking element and catch interface can accommodate various component types (seats, storage boxes, equipment mounts) while maintaining the same secure attachment principle, allowing one locking mechanism design to serve multiple functions and applications without increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The movable catch provides dynamic reconfigurability, allowing the system to transition between different operational states (locked/secured and unlocked/released) as needed. This dynamic capability enables the same attachment system to adapt to different mission requirements by simply changing the engagement state rather than requiring different attachment hardware for different configurations
3Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then the modular components are firmly attached to the cargo bed, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-securing through the interaction between the movable catch and the locking element. When the modular component is positioned on the cargo bed, the catch automatically engages with the locking element through a camming action or geometric constraint, providing secure attachment without requiring additional fasteners, tools, or complex multi-step procedures. The geometry of the catch and locking element creates a self-locking condition that maintains reliability while minimizing structural complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Modular skid units 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.