Tie Down Cleat Assembly With Composite Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tie down cleats for motor vehicles lack strength at high temperatures, are prone to chipping and corrosion, and have limited versatility in accommodating different types of tethers.
Innovation Solution
A tie down cleat assembly featuring a metal-reinforced cleat body with a zinc-coated, powder-coated steel core encapsulated in a plastic overmolded shell, including multiple receivers for various tether sizes, and a latch assembly for secure attachment to a vehicle anchor plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a plastic cleat body is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but strength at high temperatures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure combining a metal reinforcing element (steel or aluminum alloy) with a plastic outer shell (polymer material). The metal core provides high-temperature strength and structural integrity, while the plastic shell provides corrosion resistance and manufacturing ease. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by integrating materials with complementary properties.
2Strength
If a metal cleat body is used, then strength is improved, but resistance to chipping and corrosion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure where the metal reinforcing element provides strength while the plastic outer shell provides resistance to chipping and corrosion. The plastic material acts as a protective layer that prevents direct exposure of the metal to corrosive environments and mechanical chipping.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different parts of the cleat: the metal core provides strength where structural integrity is needed, while the plastic shell provides surface protection where resistance to chipping and corrosion is required. This local differentiation of material properties resolves the contradiction.
3Device complexity
If a single receiver design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates multiple receivers with different aperture sizes (first receiver with larger aperture, second and third receivers with smaller apertures) into a single cleat body. This multi-functional design allows the same device to accommodate various tether types and sizes, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and adaptability.
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 solution provides enhanced strength, resistance to corrosion and chipping, and increased versatility, allowing secure attachment of a wide range of tethers while maintaining stiffness and strength across extreme temperatures, with improved aesthetics and reduced cost compared to die-cast cleats.
Implementation Method 1
The reinforcing element may include a zinc coating
Implementation Method 2
The reinforcing element may include a cathodic electrocoat over the zinc coating
Data Source
AI summary
A tie down cleat assembly includes a cleat body having a mounting lug, a first receiver, a second receiver and a third receiver. The multiple receivers provide versatility, enhancing the functionality of the cleat for tie down purposes.