Pickup Truck Cover Locking Mechanism with Cable Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compartment cover structures for pickup trucks are complex to open and close due to their detachable mounting mechanisms, making them cumbersome for use in severe weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A locking structure comprising two fixing side frames and a locking frame with sliding cartridge assemblies, utilizing locking springs and an inhaul cable mechanism for simple and quick locking and unlocking, where the locking frame is detachably mounted at the end portions of the fixing side frames, allowing the lock tongue to be easily inserted into or removed from a locking slot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a detachable mounting structure with nylon clamping members and clamp slots is used, then the soft cover can be mounted on the connection frame, but the opening and closing operation becomes complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into independent locking units distributed along the connection frame. Each locking unit can be engaged or disengaged independently through the cable mechanism, allowing selective locking of different sections while simplifying the overall operation
Solution Approach 2:
A cable mechanism serves as an intermediary element that transmits the user's input force to multiple locking units simultaneously. This intermediary allows a single simple pulling motion to control multiple complex locking actions, resolving the contradiction between detachable functionality and operational simplicity
2Reliability
If multiple locking units are distributed along the connection frame, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each locking unit is designed as a universal module that performs the same locking function at different positions along the connection frame. This modular approach increases reliability through redundancy while controlling complexity by using standardized, interchangeable components throughout the system
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple locking units are combined into a single integrated system controlled by one cable mechanism. The cable runs through all locking units, merging their control into a single operational interface. This combining reduces the apparent complexity for the user while maintaining the reliability benefits of multiple locking points
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
The proposed locking structure enables rapid and convenient locking and unlocking of the pickup truck compartment cover, improving the stability of the sliding mechanism and reducing the likelihood of the lock tongue failing to engage or disengage from the locking slot, thus facilitating quick access and protection of cargo.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one locking spring can push the lock tongue to be clamped into the locking slot
Implementation Method 2
the sliding handle can drive the inhaul cable member to make the lock tongue break away from the locking slot
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a locking structure and a pickup truck compartment cover including the locking structure. The locking structure includes two fixing side frames and a locking frame. A locking slot is disposed on an inner side wall of the fixing side frame. Locking cartridge assemblies corresponding to the fixing side frames are respectively disposed at both ends of the locking frame, and the locking frame is further provided with a sliding cartridge assembly. The locking cartridge assembly comprises a locking cartridge, a locking member, and at least one locking spring. The sliding cartridge assembly comprises a control cartridge, a sliding handle, and an inhaul cable member, When the locking frame is mounted at the end portions of the two fixing side frames, the sliding handle is configured to drive the inhaul cable member to make a lock tongue break away from a locking slot.