Universal Retainer for Cargo Fastening Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for securing cargo in cargo holds are not versatile enough and require multiple parts, leading to increased costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device system composed of minimal distinct elements, where a universal retainer with a base body and interchangeable locking elements can be adapted for different rail types, such as airline or keyhole rails, using a pin connection and energy storage for secure positioning, and various connecting elements for diverse load configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different fastening devices are used for different rail types and load configurations, then adaptability to different requirements is improved, but device complexity and number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is designed as a universal component that can be used with different rail types (airline rails, keyhole rails, U-profiles) and different connecting elements (lashing straps, bolts, beam shoes). The base body of the retainer remains identical across all applications, while only the locking elements and connecting elements vary, allowing one retainer design to serve multiple functions and configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening device is divided into modular components: a universal retainer base body, interchangeable locking elements specific to different rail types, and interchangeable connecting elements specific to different load configurations. This segmentation allows customers to assemble different fastening device variants by combining the common retainer base with different locking and connecting elements, reducing the need to manufacture entirely different retainers for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different fastening devices with many individual parts are provided, then various load configurations can be accommodated, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By designing the retainer base body as a universal component that works with multiple locking elements and connecting elements, the manufacturer produces fewer distinct parts. The same retainer base can be assembled with different locking elements for various rail types and different connecting elements for various load configurations, significantly reducing the total number of unique components that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the common functional elements (retainer base body, spring mechanism, guide structure) into a single standardized component that serves multiple purposes. By combining these universal elements with interchangeable locking and connecting elements, the system achieves comprehensive coverage of different applications while minimizing the total component count and manufacturing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a retainer is designed to be vertically displaceable for locking and releasing, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of locking position may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is designed with vertical displacability, allowing it to be easily moved between locked and released positions. The spring mechanism provides automatic return to the locked position, combining dynamic movement with reliable positioning. This dynamic design enables simple operation while maintaining secure locking through the spring force and engagement with rail recesses.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically returns the retainer to the locked position after release, providing self-service functionality. The retainer engages with the rail recesses through its own spring force without requiring additional actuation mechanisms, ensuring reliable locking while maintaining ease of operation through simple vertical displacement.
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 system achieves maximum functionality with minimal parts, reducing costs and enhancing adaptability to different rail designs and load requirements, ensuring secure and versatile fastening solutions.
Implementation Method 1
The retainer (2) is supported against the base element (1) and/or against the locking element (5.1, 5.2) via an energy storage device (7) and holds the retainer (2) under pressure in at least two vertical positions relative to the base element (1)
Implementation Method 2
All connecting elements (3) have in common that they are connected preferably by a pin (15)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The method involves fixing a fastening unit (P1) in a rail. A central element is remained in all variants. A variable element is provided to connect the rail. The variable element is provided around the load securing case. The fastening unit is made from a retainer (2) and a connecting element (3), which are inserted in a rail and in a fixable base element (1). Independent claims are included for the following: (1) an assembly set for manufacturing and reforming a fastening unit; and (2) a fastening unit with longitudinal slot.