Tonneau Cover Clamp Mechanism with Cam Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rigid, folding tonneau covers require multiple tools for installation and permit unauthorized access due to spring-actuated clamp mechanisms that demand excessive strength and effort for latching and unlatching, lacking secure storage for the clamp mechanisms and adequate durability and security.
Innovation Solution
A clamp mechanism with a handle, block member, and elongate rod member that allows for easy operation and adjustment, featuring a latch member that moves between clamped and released positions, ensuring secure engagement with the cargo box and secure storage within the cover panel when stowed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If spring-actuated clamp mechanisms are used to secure the tonneau cover, then the cover can be easily installed and removed, but excessive strength and effort are required for latching and unlatching
Solution Approach 1:
A cam member is introduced as an intermediary between the clamp arm and the clamp body. The cam member converts rotational motion into linear motion, providing mechanical advantage that reduces the force required to actuate the clamp mechanism while maintaining secure clamping force on the cargo box rail
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp mechanism transitions from a static spring-actuated system to a dynamic cam-actuated system. The cam member allows the operator to control the clamping force through rotational motion, enabling easy installation and removal while reducing the force needed compared to purely spring-based mechanisms
2Reliability
If multiple tools are used for installation, then secure fastening is achieved, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The cam member automatically engages with the clamp body, and the clamp arm naturally positions itself on the cargo box rail. This eliminates the need for multiple installation tools while maintaining secure fastening through the mechanical advantage provided by the cam mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp mechanism integrates multiple functions into a single device: the clamp arm provides positioning, the cam member provides both actuation and mechanical advantage, and the entire assembly serves as both the fastening and release mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of tools needed while maintaining installation reliability
3Ease of operation
If the clamp mechanism is left exposed, then easy access is provided, but the mechanism is vulnerable to damage and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp mechanism is nested within a recess in the tonneau cover panel. When the cover is closed, the clamp mechanism sits within this recess, which protects it from external damage and prevents unauthorized access. The recess acts as a protective housing that maintains easy access during normal operation while providing security when the cover is closed
Data Source
AI summary
A tonneau cover for selectively enclosing a space within a cargo box. The cover has an elongate channel laterally extending between a proximate end located proximate a side edge of the cover and a distal end at which the channel terminates. The cover includes a clamp mechanism slidably engaged with the channel, and the clamp mechanism includes a handle, a block member slidably received in the channel, an elongate rod member coupled to the handle, and a latch or hook member connected to the rod member. The latch member is moveable between a clamped position for operatively engaging a portion of the cargo box and a released position for spacing the latch member from and placing the latch member out of operative engagement with the cargo box. The handle and rod member are positioned in the channel in the clamp mechanism stowed position.