Thermoplastic Wheel Chock Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wheel chock supporting and locking systems for vehicles are cumbersome, prone to component loss during disassembly, and suffer from rotational instability and corrosion, requiring multiple elements and time-consuming assembly/disassembly processes.

Innovation Solution

A single-piece thermoplastic wheel chock system with an elongated element and integrated locking mechanism, featuring a rotatable locking member and longitudinal projection, allows for secure attachment and easy removal without disassembly, enhancing stability and corrosion resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple elements (rings, pins, cotter pins) are used to fix the wheel chock to the chassis, then the locking function is achieved, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidassembly and disassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate fixing elements (rings, pins, cotter pins) into a single integrated support structure. The support comprises a body with a receiving cavity and an integrated locking mechanism that includes a piston and spring assembly, eliminating the need for multiple discrete components and simplifying the assembly/disassembly process to a single operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple separate elements are used for fixing, then the locking function is achieved, but the risk of losing elements increases during disassembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidloss of support elements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates all locking功能的 components within a single support structure. The piston, spring, and locking features are all contained within the support body, eliminating loose elements that could be lost during handling and disassembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-loaded piston automatically returns to its original position after locking, and the support elements remain contained within the support structure throughout the operation, eliminating the need for manual storage and reducing the risk of loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If a circular metal support is used, then the wheel chock can be attached, but the wheel chock rotates and oscillates during vehicle motion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment capabilityVSAvoidfixed position stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The support body features an asymmetric T-shaped cross-section with a vertical web and horizontal flanges, creating a non-circular geometry that prevents rotation. The locking mechanism uses asymmetric positioning of the piston and locking surfaces to maintain a fixed orientation of the wheel chock relative to the support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentEP2895361B1Supporting and locking system for a tool, such as a wheel chock
Publication Date: 2021.04.21 TAKLER
  • EP2895361B1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP2895361B1 patent drawingFigure 5~7
  • EP2895361B1 patent drawingFigure 8~11

AI summary

The present invention concerns a supporting and locking system (S) for a tool (C), comprising: a tool (C) having a through inner channel (C); and a supporting and locking device (1) comprising an elongated element (2), having a first end (2a) and a second end (2b), said elongated element (2) being insertable in said through channel (C), coupling means (4) of said supporting and locking device (1) for coupling it to a chassis of a vehicle, said coupling means (4) being arranged on said first end (2a); said system (S) being characterized in that it comprises a locking member (5), arranged on said second end (2b) of said elongated element (2), that cannot be uncoupled from said elongated element (2), said locking member (5) being adapted to lock said tool (C) when said elongated element (2) is inserted in said through channel (C).