Vehicle Load-securing Arrangement with Retractable Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-securing systems in vehicles face challenges in effectively securing loads due to limited space, particularly around load rings, leading to inadequate tension and potential damage to loads or the luggage compartment.
Innovation Solution
A load-securing arrangement featuring a first and second load-securing device connected to a vehicle body part via tensioning devices, equipped with force sensing means to apply and monitor tension, and a resilient member to manage axial movement, allowing for secure load retention without damaging flexible loads, and enabling efficient use of space by retracting when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tensioning device is attached between load rings and flexible securing means, then the load can be secured with proper tension, but it becomes difficult to attach properly due to limited space between the load and load rings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the resilient member and movable load-securing device assembly) that mediates between the fixed load rings and the flexible securing means. This intermediary allows the tensioning device to be attached to fixed points on the vehicle body rather than requiring direct attachment between load rings and the load, solving the space limitation problem while maintaining effective load securing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-point attachment system (load rings to load) to a multi-dimensional system where the load-securing device can move axially and the resilient member provides elastic compensation. This dimensional change allows the system to accommodate space constraints while maintaining tensioning capability
2Ease of manufacture
If manual tightening of load-securing member is performed, then the process is simple, but it requires significant physical effort and may not achieve adequate tension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical manual tightening system with an automated tensioning system that uses a tensioning device (such as an electric motor or actuator) to apply and control the tensioning force. This substitution eliminates the need for significant physical effort while maintaining simplicity of operation through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member provides self-service by automatically compensating for tension variations and maintaining optimal tension levels without requiring continuous manual adjustment. The system self-regulates the tensioning force applied to the load-securing member
3Ease of operation
If the load-securing device remains protruding when not in use, then it is easily accessible, but it reduces the available loading space in the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the load-securing device dynamic by allowing it to move along the axial direction within its opening. The device can protrude when needed for loading operations and retract when not in use, optimizing both accessibility and space utilization through controlled movement rather than fixed positioning
4Reliability
If high tension is applied to secure the load, then the load is secured tightly, but flexible loads may collapse or be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member provides beforehand cushioning by being pre-configured to provide elastic compliance in the tensioning system. This cushioning effect prevents excessive tension from being applied to flexible loads, protecting them from collapse or damage while still achieving adequate securing tightness
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback through the resilient member's elastic properties, which automatically adjust the tensioning force based on the load's resistance. When the load reaches its optimal compression point, the resilient member's elasticity prevents further tension increase, providing natural feedback control that protects flexible loads from damage
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
The system ensures secure load retention by automatically adjusting tension to prevent damage to flexible loads and optimizes space usage by retracting when not in use, providing effective load securing with reduced manual effort and improved safety features.
Implementation Method 1
The first load-securing device may be arranged to be connected to the vehicle body part or the vehicle chassis part with a resilient member. The resilient member limits the travel of the first load-securing device in the axial direction as the first tensioning device is operated
Implementation Method 2
The resilient member may also assist in releasing the tension exerted by the load-securing member on the load when the first tensioning device is not operated as the first load-securing device is pushed in the opposite direction by the resilient member
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a vehicle load-securing arrangement (1) comprising a first load-securing device (2) arranged to be attachable to a load-securing member (16) and a first tensioning device (3) arranged to be attached to the first load-securing device (2) by a first tensioning member (7). The first load-securing device (2) is arranged to be connected to a vehicle body part (8) or a vehicle chassis part (8). The first load-securing device (2) is arranged to be movable in an axial direction of the first load-securing device (2) in a first opening (12) in a loading surface (11) of a vehicle (24) by operating the first tensioning device (3). The disclosure also relates to a method for securing a load (13) in a vehicle (24).