Tool-Free Vehicle Accessory Support Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support structures for recreational vehicles are time-consuming to remove and often leave behind encumbrances on the vehicle's mounting surface, requiring tool use and disassembly of vehicle components.
Innovation Solution
A support structure with a base and brace system that includes a lock mechanism, allowing for tool-free connection and disconnection without leaving behind brackets or fasteners, utilizing a base with a receptacle and arms that engage with the vehicle's mounting surface, and a lock to secure the assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional fasteners (screws, bolts, nuts) are used to mount the support structure, then the connection strength is improved, but the removal time and tool requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into separable components: a base portion that remains on the vehicle and a removable accessory assembly. The connection mechanism includes discrete elements (protrusions, recesses, locking elements) that can be engaged and disengaged independently, enabling quick release without tool assistance while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static fastened state to a dynamic releasable state. The design incorporates movable locking elements and spring-loaded components that allow the connection to be easily switched between locked and unlocked positions, reducing removal time from minutes to seconds while maintaining strong connection during operation.
2Reliability
If traditional fasteners are used to secure the support structure, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and tool requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, eliminating the need for external tools. The locking elements automatically engage and disengage through user-applied force, with spring mechanisms providing automatic resetting. The system includes self-aligning features that guide proper installation without requiring precision tooling or complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using threaded fasteners that require rotation and tool assistance, the design inverts the approach by using direct push-to-eng age mechanisms with cam-locked or spring-loaded retention. The complexity is reduced by eliminating threads, nuts, and washers, replacing them with simpler geometric interlocking elements that achieve comparable reliability with fewer parts.
3Strength
If the support structure is permanently mounted to the vehicle, then the connection strength is improved, but the adaptability and ease of removal decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into a permanent base portion attached to the vehicle and a removable accessory assembly. The base contains engagement features (protrusions, recesses, locking mechanisms) that provide strong connection when engaged, while the modular design allows the accessory portion to be easily detached and reattached or replaced with different accessories, enhancing adaptability without compromising connection strength.
4Reliability
If traditional mounting methods are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the cleanliness of the vehicle surface deteriorates due to leftover brackets and fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts all removable components (brackets, fasteners, mounting hardware) from the vehicle surface. The base portion integrates mounting features directly into its structure, and when the accessory assembly is removed, no separate brackets or fasteners remain on the vehicle. The connection points are designed to be flush or recessed, maintaining a clean surface appearance while preserving reliable connection capability when accessories are installed.
Data Source
AI summary
A support structure for mounting an accessory assembly to a vehicle having a mounting surface defining a base mount and at least one brace mount includes a base having a connection portion being selectively connectable to the vehicle, and a support portion. The base is connectable to the accessory assembly. The support structure further includes a brace having a mating portion for engaging the support portion, and at least one arm extending from the mating portion toward the connection portion and away from the base when the mating portion engages the support portion. The at least one arm has a proximal end connected to the mating portion, and a distal end being spaced from the connection portion and being selectively engageable to the vehicle. The support structure further includes a lock selectively locking the mating portion to the base.