Sliding Securing Element for Commercial Vehicle Support Device Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices for commercial vehicles, particularly those used to support semi-trailers when detached, are complex and time-consuming to assemble due to numerous small components like screws, bolts, and securing elements.
Innovation Solution
A support device comprising a first support element, a foot unit, and a securing element, where the foot unit can be fixed to the support element, and the securing element can slide over the support element, with a recess design allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, utilizing a carrying element and a pivoting mechanism to secure the foot unit in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional assembly methods with multiple small components (screws, bolts, shafts) are used to fix the foot unit to the support element, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the assembly complexity and time expenditure increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated securing element that slides over the support element. This securing element integrates the functions of multiple screws, bolts, and shafts into one component, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining connection reliability through a unified securing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is designed to slide over the support element in a nested configuration, where the securing element encompasses the support element. This nested arrangement allows for simple assembly by sliding the securing element into place, eliminating the need for multiple separate fastening operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple small components are used to secure the foot unit, then the connection stability is improved, but the assembly time and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening components are merged into a single securing element that provides stable connection through its integrated design. This consolidation maintains connection stability while enabling faster assembly by reducing the number of discrete fastening operations required.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is pre-designed with a sliding configuration that allows it to be quickly positioned and secured over the support element. This preliminary design of the sliding mechanism enables rapid assembly without requiring multiple sequential fastening steps.
3Reliability
If a secure and stable connection between foot unit and support element is ensured, then the structural reliability is improved, but the ease of disassembly for repositioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element employs a sliding connection that is dynamic in nature, allowing it to be easily moved along the support element for disassembly and repositioning. This sliding mechanism maintains structural reliability when secured while enabling simple disassembly when needed, providing adaptability between stable connection and easy reconfiguration.
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 solution simplifies the assembly and disassembly process, reducing time and cost by using a secure, gravity-held design that prevents relative movement of the foot unit and support elements, ensuring a stable connection while allowing for easy detachment.
Implementation Method 1
The securing element is held in this operating state or in this position relative to the first support element by gravity and secures the base unit on the first support element in this operating state.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~4
AI summary
The supporting device comprises a support element (2), a foot unit (4), a locking element (6) and a carrier element (10), where the foot unit has a receiving area (42). The carrier element is fixed at the support element. The carrier element is partially inserted and stored into the receiving area. The locking element has a recess, in which the locking element slides on the support element and is displaced along the support element, such that an operating state of the locking element is adjustable, in which the foot unit and the support element are surrounded. An independent claim is included for a method for manufacturing a supporting device.