Adjustable Track Support Member With Pinion Engagement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing track systems often lack sufficient functionality, are complex to operate, and do not operate efficiently, particularly in engaging with track assemblies effectively.

Innovation Solution

A track system comprising a track/rail, a support assembly, and a flexible member, where the support member includes a pinion that can be adjusted to engage or disengage with the track, allowing for removable and adjustable connection, facilitated by a flexible member that can be positioned to either disengage or engage the pinion with the track.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing track systems use fixed support members, then structural stability is maintained, but operational flexibility and ease of removal are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational flexibilityVSAvoidengagement mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support member incorporates a pinion gear that can dynamically engage and disengage with the track's gear rack. This dynamic engagement mechanism allows the support member to transition between fixed and movable states, providing operational flexibility while maintaining structural stability when engaged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement mechanism is segmented into distinct components: the pinion gear on the support member and the gear rack on the track. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables the support member to be easily attached and detached without affecting the track structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If existing track systems use complex engagement mechanisms, then secure connection is achieved, but ease of operation and assembly are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of connection and removalVSAvoidengagement reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The pinion gear and gear rack engagement mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage through simple linear movement of the support member along the track. The mechanical interaction between the pinion teeth and gear rack teeth provides automatic locking when engaged and easy release when pulled, eliminating the need for complex fastening operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If existing track systems lack adjustable support members, then structural integrity is maintained, but functionality and adaptability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidoperational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The track system with pinion-gear rack engagement provides universal applicability for various support member configurations and positions. The same engagement mechanism works for different support member types and can accommodate multiple support members along the track, enhancing system functionality and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This solution enables efficient and flexible operation of the track system, allowing for easy connection and removal of support members from the track assembly, improving operational efficiency and usability.

Implementation Method 1

The support member may include a pinion. The flexible member may be adjustable to a first flexible member position in which the pinion is disengaged from the track. The flexible member may be adjustable to a second flexible member position in which the pinion is engaged with the track.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical engagement: Gear

Data Source

PatentUS12181033B2Track system with a support member
Publication Date: 2024.12.31 LEAR CORP
  • US12181033B2 patent drawing
  • US12181033B2 patent drawing
  • US12181033B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A track system may include a track, a support assembly, and a flexible member. The support assembly may include a support member removably and adjustably connected to the track. The flexible member may be connected to the support member. The support member may include a pinion. The flexible member may be adjustable to a first flexible member position in which the pinion and the track are not engaged with one another. The flexible member may be adjustable to a second flexible member position in which the pinion and the track are engaged with one another.