Sequential Locking Mechanism for Roof Box Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof box lock arrangements may appear locked but can be insufficiently secured due to unengaged lock bolts or pins, lacking clear indication of proper locking status, and are not flexible enough for different load carriers.
Innovation Solution
A lock arrangement with displaceable lock elements and an elongated actuation element that allows sequential locking, providing clear feedback and ensuring all lock elements are fully engaged before the lock is considered secure, using a modular design that can be adapted to various load carriers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If simultaneous locking of all lock sites is implemented, then the locking process is completed quickly, but it is difficult to ensure all lock elements are fully engaged and provides no clear indication of proper locking status
Solution Approach 1:
The lock elements are designed to perform preliminary engagement actions sequentially before final locking. The first lock element engages in a preliminary manner, allowing the user to verify engagement before the second lock element completes the final locking action, ensuring reliable locking while maintaining efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms including tactile feedback through distinct engagement positions and auditory feedback through clicking sounds. The system provides clear sensory feedback to the user at each locking stage, confirming whether lock elements are properly engaged without requiring visual inspection, thus resolving the contradiction between speed and reliability.
2Ease of operation
If multiple lock sites are interconnected via sliding bars or rotatable rods, then all lock sites can be operated simultaneously, but the system lacks flexibility for different load carriers and provides limited information on proper locking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into independent lock elements (first and second lock elements) that can be individually engaged and disengaged. This segmentation allows the system to be configured for different load carrier types while maintaining ease of operation, as each segment can be adapted independently to specific application requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic elements including spring-loaded lock elements that can automatically adjust to different engagement positions. The first lock element is spring-loaded to provide automatic return to the engagement position, enabling the system to adapt to different load carrier geometries while maintaining operational convenience through consistent user interaction.
3Weight of moving object
If lock elements are made from light weight materials, then the overall weight is reduced, but the lock elements may be slightly flexible and difficult to ensure full engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates spring elements that provide cushioning and force to ensure complete engagement of lock elements with lock members. The spring-loaded mechanism compensates for any flexibility in the light-weight lock elements, guaranteeing precise engagement without requiring heavier materials, thus maintaining both weight reduction and engagement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A load carrier and a method for operating the load carrier. The load carrier includes a base, a lid, and a lock arrangement arranged on the base and/or the lid, to lock the lid to the base. The lock arrangement includes at least a first and a second displaceable lock element operable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The first and the second lock elements are arranged to respectively engage with a first and a second lock member arranged on the opposing base or lid when being positioned in the locked position. The lock arrangement further includes an elongated actuation element in working cooperation with the first and the second lock element. An actuator arranged to displace the elongated actuation element from a locked position to a first position and thereby displacing the first and the second lock element from the locked position to the unlocked position.