Retractor Anchor Top Release for 360 Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track fittings for wheelchair and occupant restraints in vehicles, such as L-track, face limitations due to interference between the retractor and release mechanism, preventing 360° rotation and impeding the operation of the release mechanism at certain angular positions.
Innovation Solution
A retractor anchor with a body member and plunger that is slidably receivable on the track, featuring a release member that allows 360° rotation of the attachment and convenient operation regardless of angular orientation, utilizing a plunger that moves between engaged and disengaged positions to secure or release the anchor from the track.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the release mechanism is positioned to allow retractor removal from the track, then the retractor can be removed, but the release mechanism interferes with 360° rotation of the retractor
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is repositioned from a location that interferes with rotational movement to a location on the opposite side of the retractor anchor body. This spatial reconfiguration in a different dimensional orientation allows the retractor to rotate freely through 360 degrees while the release mechanism remains accessible for operation to remove the retractor from the track.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the retractor is positioned to allow 360° rotation, then full rotation is achieved, but the retractor overlies the release mechanism at certain angular positions, impeding operation
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is relocated to a position on the retractor anchor body that is spatially separated from the rotational path of the retractor. By placing it on the opposite side, the design ensures that regardless of the retractor's angular position during 360° rotation, the release mechanism remains exposed and operable without being obscured or impeded by the retractor itself.
3Ease of operation
If the release mechanism is made accessible for operation, then it can be conveniently operated, but it prevents full 360° rotation of the retractor
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is positioned on the retractor anchor body at a location that is radially opposite to the retractor's mounting point. This dimensional reconfiguration ensures that the release mechanism remains constantly accessible for operation while the retractor maintains complete 360° rotational freedom, as the two components occupy different spatial zones that do not interfere with each other's movement or operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A retractor anchor for releasably engaging a track. The retractor anchor has a body member which is slidably receivable on the track, and a plunger, which is moveably connected to the body member. A release member is connected to the plunger for moving the plunger between an engaged position, wherein the plunger engages the track to restrain the body member from sliding with respect to the track, and a disengaged position, wherein the body member is slidable with respect to the track. A mounting member is connected to the body member for mountably receiving an attachment for rotation of the attachment around the release member.