Rear Gate Locking Mechanism with Central Handle and Wire Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing locking mechanisms for rear gates in work vehicles require high dimensional precision in rod length and assembly, making the process time-consuming and troublesome.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with pivotable locking members operated by operational wires connected to a central handle, allowing for easy assembly and reduced precision requirements, featuring a handle body formed by bending a round bar with supporting and operational portions, and inner and outer wires for efficient locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rods are used to engage with engagement portions and be operably coupled with a central handle, then the locking mechanism can maintain the rear gate in closed position, but high dimensional precision is required in rod length making assembly troublesome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameter from rigid rod length (requiring high precision) to wire cable length (allowing flexibility and tolerance). The wire cables can be adjusted in length during assembly without affecting the locking function, transforming a precision-critical dimension into a flexible parameter that accommodates manufacturing variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wire cables as intermediary elements between the handle and locking members, replacing direct rigid rod connections. This intermediary flexible connection allows for easier assembly by accommodating positional variations and eliminating the need for precise pre-fabrication of rod lengths.
2Manufacturing precision
If high dimensional precision is required for rod length and positioning, then the locking mechanism functions reliably, but machining time increases and assembly becomes troublesome
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the critical parameter from rigid dimensional precision to flexible cable tension. Wire cables naturally accommodate length variations through tension adjustment, eliminating the need for precise machining while maintaining reliable locking function, thus significantly improving assembly productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring precise pre-fabrication of connecting elements, the patent inverts the approach by using flexible cables that are adjusted to the correct length during assembly. This reverses the sequence from precision manufacturing first to adjustment later, dramatically improving productivity.
3Ease of operation
If a single central handle operates both left and right locking mechanisms, then operational convenience is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases requiring precise coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single central handle to perform multiple functions - operating both left and right locking mechanisms simultaneously. The flexible wire cables enable this multi-functionality without requiring complex mechanical linkages, as the cables can be independently routed and adjusted for each locking side.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a work vehicle of the present invention, a load carrying bed includes a floor panel, a pair of left and right side panels, and a rear gate which is openable and closable. The rear gate includes left and right lock operational portions (23) for maintaining the rear gate under a closing posture through engagement with locking engagement portions formed in the left and right side panels, a single handle (22) disposed at an intermediate position in the left/right direction of the rear gate and supported to be pivotable about a horizontally oriented operational axis (X), and left and right operational wires (25) for operating left and right locking members (23b) in a direction for pulling these locking members (23b) out of the locking engagement portions by an operation of the handle (22) about the operational axis (X).