Spring-Biased Cleat for Secure Storage Compartment Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for storage compartments in driver cabins of road vehicles are complex to install and prone to unintended release during crashes or vibrations, especially due to the separate locking element mechanism which can disengage during accidents.
Innovation Solution
A cleat with a spring-biased retaining block guided on a profile, allowing easy installation and secure locking by manually positioning the block between locking and release positions, and additional conventional fasteners for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate locking element mechanism is used to prevent unintended release, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking element and retaining block into a single integrated mechanism. The retaining block is directly formed as part of the locking element, eliminating the need for separate locking and retaining components. This integration maintains reliability by ensuring the retaining block remains securely positioned while reducing device complexity through component consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary locking action through the hook portion, maintains positioning through the retaining block, and enables easy release through the spring-biased mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive security.
2Reliability
If conventional fasteners are used to secure the storage compartment, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into two distinct functional parts: the cleat with spring-biased retaining block for easy engagement and disengagement, and conventional fasteners for secure mounting. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its optimal function - the cleat mechanism provides tool-free operation while the conventional fasteners provide robust security.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased retaining block introduces dynamic behavior to the fastening system, allowing automatic engagement when force is applied and easy release when the spring overcomes the retaining force. This dynamic mechanism complements the static security provided by conventional fasteners, creating a system that is both secure and easy to operate.
3Reliability
If the retaining block is spring biased into the locking position, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is integrated directly into the retaining block structure, with the spring housed within or as part of the locking element body. This integration eliminates the need for separate spring housings or additional mounting components, reducing device complexity while maintaining the reliable spring-biased locking action.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased retaining block is designed to automatically engage and lock without external intervention. The spring force automatically pushes the retaining block into the locked position, and the geometry of the mechanism ensures proper positioning and engagement. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex control systems or additional actuating mechanisms.
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
Facilitates easy installation and prevents unwanted release of storage compartments during crashes and vibrations by ensuring the cleat remains securely engaged within the cleat receiver opening.
Implementation Method 1
a spring biased retaining block slidably arranged on the arm portion between a cleat locking position and a cleat release position, said retaining block being spring biased away from the cleat base portion into the cleat locking position
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3
Figure 4A~4D
AI summary
A road vehicle (1) comprises a storage compartment or other heavy structure attached with a cleat (17) to a cleat receiver (9) in an upper wall (5) part of a driver cabin (4) wall (5). The cleat receiver (9) has a cleat receiver opening (10) with a receiver opening width and height. The cleat (17) has an arm portion (20) protruding from its cleat base portion (19). A lower arm surface (21) engages a lower cleat receiver opening edge (11). The cleat (17) has a forward end hook portion (23) having a hook portion thickness larger than the thickness of the arm portion (20) and a hook portion holding surface (26) engaging the back surface (8) of the upper wall (5) part. A guiding profile (27) is integrally arranged at the upper arm surface (22) and has a guiding profile (27) height above the upper arm surface (22). The total dimension of the arm thickness (HT) and the guiding profile (27) height (GPH) is smaller than the cleat receiver (9) opening height (15). A spring biased retaining block (28) is slidably arranged on the guiding profile (27) between a cleat locking position and a cleat release position. The retaining block (28) extends at a retaining block (28) height (RBH) above the guiding profile (27) height (GPH). The total dimension of the arm thickness, the guiding profile (27) height and the guiding block height matches the cleat receiver opening height (15). The total dimension of the hook portion thickness (HT) and the guiding profile (27) height (GPH) is smaller than the cleat receiver opening height (15).