Storage Case Link Mechanism Orthogonal Hook Attachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional storage cases for saddle riding vehicles experience oscillation due to design tolerances in the link mechanism and hook member, leading to a loose attachment to the vehicle body.

Innovation Solution

The storage case incorporates a link mechanism with a first and second link, where the hook member is pivotably supported by a turning shaft, and a second connecting shaft is orthogonal to the first connecting shaft, reducing oscillation by transmitting forces at a right angle, and includes stopper portions to restrict movement and enhance engagement with the vehicle body.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional link mechanism is used to join the operation element and hook member, then the storage case can be attached to the vehicle body, but oscillation occurs due to design tolerance leading to loose attachment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment firmnessVSAvoidoscillation of link mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a specific geometric configuration where the first link and second link are arranged substantially orthogonally to each other. This dimensional arrangement creates a rigid spatial structure that eliminates oscillation in multiple directions simultaneously, transforming a potentially unstable planar mechanism into a stable three-dimensional structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent specifies precise angular parameters for the link mechanism, requiring the first link and second link to form a substantially orthogonal angle (90 degrees). This parameter change from arbitrary angles to a specific right-angle configuration optimizes the mechanical stability and eliminates oscillation caused by design tolerances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If design tolerance is allowed for turning the link mechanism, then the mechanism can be manufactured and assembled, but oscillation occurs reducing attachment stability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelink mechanism assemblyVSAvoidattachment stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The orthogonal arrangement of links preemptively counteracts oscillation forces before they can manifest. By designing the mechanism with inherent geometric rigidity, the patent prevents the propagation of vibrations and oscillations that would otherwise result from manufacturing tolerances, effectively neutralizing potential instability sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent pre-configures the link mechanism in a substantially orthogonal state during assembly, establishing a stable geometric foundation before operational forces are applied. This preliminary positioning ensures that subsequent operational movements occur from a stable configuration, preventing oscillation from developing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11148742B2Storage case
Publication Date: 2021.10.19 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US11148742B2 patent drawing
  • US11148742B2 patent drawing
  • US11148742B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A link mechanism includes a first link connected to an operation element, and a second link for connecting the first link and a hook member. The hook member includes a hook portion disposed on a distal end portion of the hook member and engaged with the vehicle body, and a link mechanism connecting portion disposed on a base end portion of the hook member and connected to a first connecting shaft on one end portion of the second link. The hook member is pivotably supported by a turning shaft disposed between the hook portion and the link mechanism connecting portion. When the hook portion is engaged with the vehicle body, a straight line L1 connecting the turning shaft and the first connecting shaft is substantially orthogonal to a straight line connecting the first connecting shaft and a second connecting shaft, which is connected to the first link.