Strap Securement Apparatus for Refrigeration Unit Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective guard devices for refrigeration units in semi-trailers are cumbersome to apply and remove, require permanent attachment, and are not universally compatible with different refrigeration unit sizes, making them inefficient for protecting against wind, vibration, and debris impacts.
Innovation Solution
A strap securement apparatus with adjustable straps and anti-vibration pads that can be easily applied and removed, securing the enclosure of refrigeration units and accommodating various sizes and locations, while allowing for access during servicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a rigid fixed frame protective guard device is used, then protection against wind and debris is improved, but the device becomes difficult to apply and remove, and cannot accommodate different refrigeration unit sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The protective guard device is divided into multiple modular panels that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each panel is a separate component that can be easily attached and removed, allowing the entire structure to be quickly applied and removed from different refrigeration units without requiring permanent installation
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a rigid fixed frame structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable panel system that can adapt to different refrigeration unit sizes and configurations. The modular panels can be arranged and rearranged to fit various dimensions, enabling the same protective device to serve multiple refrigeration unit types
2Strength
If a rigid fixed frame protective guard device is used, then structural strength is improved, but the device must be specifically designed for each refrigeration unit model, increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The modular panel design allows a single set of protective panels to serve multiple refrigeration unit models and sizes. The panels can be configured in different arrangements to accommodate various widths, heights, and shapes, making the protective device universally applicable across different refrigeration unit types without requiring custom designs for each model
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows for adjustment of dimensional parameters through the arrangement and configuration of modular panels. By changing the number, size, and arrangement of panels, the same basic protective device can be adapted to different refrigeration unit dimensions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized designs
3Stability of the object's composition
If permanent attachment with mounting holes and bolts is used, then protection stability is improved, but the application and removal process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system extracts the time-consuming process of creating mounting holes and threading bolts by using pre-drilled holes in the panels and a simplified fastening mechanism. The design separates the panel structure from the attachment mechanism, allowing panels to be quickly secured and removed without permanent modifications to the refrigeration unit
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are pre-drilled with mounting holes during manufacturing, eliminating the need for on-site hole drilling and preparation. This preliminary action allows the protective device to be quickly assembled and disassembled using simple fasteners, significantly reducing the time required for application and removal while maintaining secure attachment during transport
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 strap securement apparatus effectively prevents damage from wind, debris, and vibrations, is lightweight, and can be easily transported and re-applied, providing comprehensive protection and convenience for truckers.
Implementation Method 1
anti-vibration pads to reduce door and panel vibration
Data Source
AI summary
A strap securement apparatus for a refrigeration unit of a refrigerated semi-trailer. The apparatus includes: a curbside vertical strap, a roadside vertical strap, and a horizontal strap having connectors at each strap end configured to attach to the refrigeration unit or the front wall of the semi-trailer, also including curbside and roadside anti-vibration pads configured to reduce vibration of the panels and doors of the enclosure of the refrigeration unit. The strap securement apparatus secures the panels and doors of the refrigeration unit, is easy to install and remove from the refrigeration unit, and can include strap adjustment features to fit to a wide variety of refrigeration unit models. The strap securement apparatus can also be partially removed to provide easy access to doors and panels of the refrigeration unit. It is lightweight, can be folded into a compact size, and is easily transported to and from a refrigerated semi-trailer.