Adjustable Tonneau Cover Latch for Nonstandard Truck Bed Widths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard truck bed covers struggle to securely attach to truck beds with non-standard dimensions, as the distance between sidewalls can vary due to manufacturing tolerances or damage, leading to fitting issues and the need for shims or modifications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an adjustable pinch latch assembly that allows for linear adjustment to accommodate varying sidewall spacings, featuring a latch handle portion, latch base, and a set screw for secure positioning, along with a latch override stop to prevent lateral movement and ensure secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard truck bed covers are used, then the cover can be easily manufactured and installed, but the cover cannot securely attach to truck beds with nonstandard dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system incorporates adjustable components including the pinch latch assembly with linear adjustment capability, adjustable clamp back, and adjustable striker position. These dynamic elements allow the cover to adapt to varying sidewall spacings while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter adjustment through the set member (adjustable clamp back) that can be positioned at multiple locations along the rail, and the striker that can be adjusted horizontally and vertically. This allows the attachment parameters to be changed to match nonstandard truck bed dimensions.
2Reliability
If the latch system is made adjustable to accommodate varying sidewall spacings, then the attachment security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is divided into modular components including the pinch latch assembly, clamp assembly, and adjustable elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while contributing to overall reliability without requiring complete system redesign for adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable clamp back and striker serve multiple functions: they provide attachment security through the latching mechanism while simultaneously accommodating varying dimensions through adjustment. This multi-functionality improves reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If fixed position latches are used, then the device structure is simple, but the cover cannot maintain secure attachment when sidewall spacing deviates from standard dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed with pre-configured adjustment capabilities built into the latch assembly. The adjustable clamp back and striker are positioned to allow easy adjustment during installation, eliminating the need for complex field modifications while maintaining installation simplicity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If shims or modifications are used to accommodate nonstandard dimensions, then the cover can fit, but the installation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable latch system is designed to be self-adjusting through the set member and striker adjustment mechanisms. The user can directly adjust the components to fit nonstandard dimensions without requiring external shims or complex modifications, reducing installation time and eliminating the need for additional materials.
Data Source
AI summary
A truck that includes a bed section located rear of a cab section where the bed section is bounded on each side by opposing first and second upward-extending side walls, respectively. The truck includes a tonneau cover which has a first panel section pivotable with respect to the opposing first and second upward-extending side walls. A latching assembly is attached to the first panel section that selectively secures and releases the first panel section with respect to the first and second upward-extending side walls of the truck. The latching assembly includes at least one adjustable pinch latch assembly. The pinch latch assembly includes a latch handle portion and a latch base located on the first panel section adjacent the latch handle portion.