Vehicle Accessory Attachment via Interlocking Key and Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for attaching vehicle accessories are time-consuming and require extra hardware, as they involve drilling holes and bolting/screwing, which can be difficult and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A quick attachment and removal system using a fastening key and locking bracket that interlock removably, featuring a stem with a bit that aligns with an inclined securing structure in the locking bracket, allowing for easy attachment and detachment of accessories without the need for drilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drilling holes and bolting/screwing are used to attach accessories, then the attachment is secure and reliable, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and requires extra hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate components: a fastening key with bits, a locking bracket with keyhole and inclined securing structures, and an accessory with key aperture. This segmentation allows for quick assembly and disassembly without permanent modifications, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and installation time by enabling tool-based attachment rather than permanent fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening key acts as an intermediary tool that temporarily engages the accessory and locking bracket during attachment. The key's bits interact with the inclined securing structures to pull the accessory against the vehicle surface, providing secure attachment without requiring drilling or permanent hardware, thus reducing installation time while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If drilling holes and bolting/screwing are used to attach accessories, then the attachment is secure, but the process becomes difficult and requires extra hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the need for permanent fastening hardware (drills, screws, bolts) by using a removable fastening key mechanism. The key's bits engage with the inclined securing structures to provide secure attachment temporarily, eliminating the need for extra hardware while maintaining attachment security through the interlocking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening key's bits automatically engage with the inclined securing structures when inserted through the keyhole, and rotation of the key self-activates the securing mechanism by pulling the accessory against the vehicle surface. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional tools or complex hardware assembly, reducing device complexity while ensuring secure attachment.
3Loss of time
If a quick attachment system is used, then installation time is reduced, but the attachment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening key serves multiple functions: it acts as an insertion tool, a rotating actuator, and a retention mechanism all in one component. The bits on the key engage with the inclined securing structures to provide both the pulling force for secure attachment and the locking mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall system while enabling quick attachment.
4Stability of the object's composition
If traditional bolting methods are used, then the attachment is stable, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system transitions from static permanent fastening to dynamic removable fastening. The fastening key can be inserted, rotated to engage the inclined securing structures, and removed as needed. This dynamic operation provides attachment stability during use while greatly improving ease of operation for installation and removal compared to permanent bolting methods.
Data Source
AI summary
An accessory attachment system comprising a fastening key having an accessory retention cap, a stem extending from the retention cap, and at least one bit extending laterally from a distal end of the stem. The stem configured to be inserted through a key aperture in an accessory to be attached to the vehicle. The system includes a locking bracket connectable to the vehicle adjacent an accessory portal provided in the vehicle. The locking bracket comprises a base plate, a keyhole disposed through the base plate, and at least one inclined securing structure disposed along a circumference of the keyhole. Each securing structure comprises a ramp and a detent. The keyhole is configured to receive the stem distal end and bit(s) therethrough, and each securing structure is configured to engage the bit(s) and interlock the fastening key with the locking bracket upon rotation of the key.