Low Profile Trailer Hold Down Assembly with Integrated Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo securement assemblies for trailers require a specific coupling clip and are not low profile, limiting their functionality and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A low profile hold down assembly is mounted to the sidewall of a trailer, featuring a cover and plate assembly made from the same material as the trailer, with a D-ring hold down and locating fingers for securement, providing a sleek and functional design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a specific coupling clip is required for the cargo securement assembly, then the assembly can function properly, but the device complexity increases and the profile height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hold down assembly is designed to accept multiple types of cargo restraint members (straps, chains, bars) without requiring a specific coupling clip. The assembly features a U-shaped channel with an opening that can accommodate different cross-sections of restraint members, making it universal and eliminating the need for specialized coupling components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the coupling clip component from the system by designing the hold down assembly itself to directly receive and secure the restraint member. The restraint member passes through the U-shaped channel and is secured by the channel's geometry, eliminating the intermediate coupling clip element.
2Reliability
If a specific coupling clip is used, then the assembly functions, but the profile height increases reducing aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling clip is removed from the system, allowing the hold down assembly to have a lower profile. The restraint member passes directly through the U-shaped channel which is integrated into the hold down body, eliminating the need for the coupling clip to protrude from the assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The hold down assembly merges the functions of the hold down body and the coupling mechanism into a single integrated component. The U-shaped channel is formed as part of the hold down body itself, combining what were previously separate elements into one low-profile unit.
3Shape
If a low profile design is achieved, then aesthetics improve, but the structural complexity increases to maintain securement function
Solution Approach 1:
The hold down assembly integrates the hold down body, securing mechanism, and restraint member reception into a single low-profile component. The U-shaped channel is formed as an integral part of the hold down body, merging multiple functions into one structurally efficient design that maintains low profile while ensuring securement capability.
4Shape
If the cover and plate assembly are made from the same material as the trailer, then aesthetics improve, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover and plate assembly are manufactured from the same material as the trailer body (aluminum or fiberglass), creating a homogeneous appearance that matches the trailer's aesthetic. This material uniformity ensures that the hold down assembly blends seamlessly with the trailer surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A low profile hold down assembly is mounted to the exterior surface of a sidewall of a trailer. The hold down assembly includes a cover member formed from the same material from which the sidewall of the trailer is formed and therefore is aesthetically desirable.