Trunk-Lid Tie-Down Insert Plate and Cord Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simple and effective method to securely hold a passenger car's trunk lid or rear hatch open when transporting oversized cargo, preventing the cargo from falling out and ensuring safe transportation.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an oblong steel insert plate with eye openings and a length of cord or rope, where the rope is secured to the trunk lid latch and the insert plate, limiting the lid's opening while allowing air springs to maintain the lid partly open, and can be easily released to allow full opening for cargo removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the trunk lid is held partly open using a simple cord and insert plate arrangement, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of securing oversized cargo may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The insert plate acts as an intermediary component that interfaces between the existing trunk lid latch mechanism and the cord. This simple metal plate with eye holes at each end allows the cord to be securely attached to the latch tongue, creating a reliable connection without modifying the original locking mechanism. The intermediary plate distributes forces and provides secure attachment points, maintaining reliability while keeping the overall device simple.
2Reliability
If the cord is used to limit the lid opening position, then the cargo security is improved, but the ease of operation for loading and unloading cargo is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions between two dynamic states: during loading/unloading, the latch tongue is manually withdrawn to release the insert plate, allowing full lid opening; during transport, the latch tongue engages with the insert plate, limiting lid opening. This dynamic switching between constrained and unconstrained states allows the system to provide both cargo security during transport and ease of operation during loading/unloading cycles.
3Strength
If the insert plate is made of rigid metal with specific dimensions, then the strength and durability are improved, but the ease of manufacture and cost may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insert plate is designed as a segmented component with distinct features: a flat metal body, eye holes at each end, and engagement surfaces for the latch. This segmentation allows the plate to be manufactured using simple processes like punching or drilling holes in a standard metal strip, then bending or cutting to shape. The modular design with standardized eye hole positions makes it easy to manufacture at low cost while maintaining the necessary strength through appropriate metal gauge selection.
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 solution effectively keeps the trunk lid partly open to accommodate oversized cargo without risking it falling out, while allowing easy access for unloading by releasing the lock mechanism, providing a convenient and secure transportation solution.
Implementation Method 1
The air spring of the lift gate or lid urges the hatch or lid toward its open position
Data Source
AI summary
A Trunk-lid Tie-down arrangement holds a car trunk lid or hatch lift-gate at a partly open position for transporting an oversize package or other large cargo piece. One component is an insert plate formed stainless steel or another suitably strong rigid material, with a pair of eye openings. The second component is a length of a cordage or rope, favorably ten feet long. One of the eye opening is inserted into the vehicle's latch for the lid or lift gate and is held there. The cordage extends from the other eye opening and can be tied to the hasp for the locking latch. At the delivery destination, the insert plate is removed by unlocking the lid or hatch gate, and the package can be removed.