Side Tarpaulin Tensioner with Threaded Bolt and Flared Nut
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of existing side curtain tensioners for commercial vehicle tarps is complex and requires intricate components, such as a U-shaped tensioning lever and a cylindrical bolt, making the process cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A side curtain tensioner design featuring a threaded bolt/nut combination fastened to a base plate, with a flared nut for easy mounting, and a holding piece with angled legs for simple attachment and perpendicular bracing of the tarpaulin, along with a clamping bracket with parallel side wings and a spring tongue for secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a U-shaped tensioning lever with cylindrical bolt and multiple articulated components is used, then the tarpaulin tensioning function is achieved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components (tensioning lever, cylindrical bolt, articulated hook, and base body) into an integrated base body structure where the tensioning lever is directly formed as part of the base body, eliminating the need for separate cylindrical bolts and reducing the number of articulated connections required for assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The base body is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as the mounting structure, the tensioning lever pivot point, and the structural support for the tarpaulin, eliminating the need for separate specialized components for each function
2Reliability
If a complex articulated hook and block system is used to transmit movement to the tarpaulin, then the tarpaulin can be tensioned, but the assembly effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the articulated hook and block system into a simplified direct connection where the tensioning lever's linear movement is directly transmitted to the tarpaulin through a single pivot connection, eliminating the need for separate articulated components and reducing assembly effort
3Reliability
If a tall or bulky tensioner design is used to accommodate multiple components, then the tensioning function is achieved, but the design becomes less flat and more space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functional components into the base body structure itself, allowing the tensioning mechanism to operate within a flatter profile by eliminating the need for separate tall or bulky articulated components that would increase the overall height or volume of the assembly
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
This design significantly reduces assembly effort and allows for a flatter, more stable tarpaulin tensioning system with improved ease of use and secure attachment, enhancing the overall efficiency of the tensioning process.
Implementation Method 1
The threaded bolt-nut combination comprises a nut fastened to the base body, into which the threaded bolt of a screw, which can previously be passed through the passage of a holding piece, is screwed.
Implementation Method 2
at least one spring tongue being formed on the base body, which engages behind the lug when the clamping bracket is in the applied position. This achieves an additional securing of the holding bracket in the tensioned, closed position.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a side tarpaulin tensioner comprising a base body having two parallel side plates, a tensioning bracket designed as a single-armed lever which is pivotably mounted about a first pivot axis extending orthogonally to the side plates of the base body, and a hook part for engaging behind a stationary holding element which serves as an abutment opposite the tarpaulin to be tensioned and which is pivotably mounted about a second pivot axis extending between the side plates and parallel to the first pivot axis. Means for transmitting the tensioning movement exerted by the tensioning bracket to the tarpaulin are arranged on the base body.The means for transferring the tensioning movement exerted by the tensioning bracket (2) to the tarpaulin include a threaded bolt-nut combination attached to the base body (1), the threaded bolt of which can be passed through a passage (52) of a retaining piece which can be fixed to the tarpaulin to be tensioned.