Slidable Cargo Track Mount for Adjustable Securement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cargo securement systems in vehicles lack flexibility and adaptability, as they are limited to fixed positions, which restricts the ability to adjust the attachment points for securing cargo effectively, especially in varying load configurations.

Innovation Solution

A cargo securement system comprising a track with a slidable mount that can be secured at different positions along its longitudinal length, featuring a locking mechanism with pivotally mounted locking pins, allowing for adjustable and secure attachment of various securement devices, ensuring compatibility with existing fixed mount accessories.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed mount structure is used to secure cargo, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the position of securement devices cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of securement device positionVSAvoidcomplexity of mount structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed mount structure into a dynamic system with a slidable mount that can move along a vertical track. The mount transitions from a static position to a movable one, allowing adjustment of securement device positions while maintaining structural reliability through the track-guided movement mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mount structure is segmented into separate functional components: a vertical track providing the movement path, a slidable mount that moves along the track, and a securement device attached to the mount. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables the adjustment functionality while keeping the overall system manageable in complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If accessory structures are fixed to the fixed mount, then the attachment is secure and reliable, but the securement points cannot be repositioned for different cargo configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverepositionability of securement pointsVSAvoidease of adjusting securement position
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The slidable mount incorporates a self-service adjustment mechanism where the user can directly slide the mount along the track and secure it at the desired position using the integrated locking mechanism. The system serves itself by providing built-in locking openings and a locking pin that automatically engage, eliminating the need for additional tools or complex adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The vertical track acts as an intermediary element between the fixed mount structure and the movable securement device. It provides a guided path for the slidable mount, ensuring stable and controlled movement while maintaining proper alignment, thus facilitating easy repositioning without compromising security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fixed mount locations are provided, then cargo can be secured at different positions, but the number of components and installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of available securement positionsVSAvoidnumber of mount structures required
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The vertical track with slidable mount serves multiple functions: it provides a single installation point that can generate multiple securement positions through vertical adjustment. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple separate fixed mounts, as one track-mounted system can accommodate various cargo heights and configurations by moving the securement device along the track's length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10464466B2Box link vertical track
Publication Date: 2019.11.05 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US10464466B2 patent drawing
  • US10464466B2 patent drawing
  • US10464466B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cargo securement system is disclosed and includes a track securable to a fixed mounting location within a cargo area. A slidable mount is movable along the track and securable at different positions along a longitudinal length to provide different securement positions adaptable to the cargo.