Vehicle Load Space Accessory Mounting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle load space accessory mounting systems lack a secure and user-friendly method for removably attaching accessories, such as hooks and holders, which limits their usability and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a resilient member and cam feature that engages with an accessory support, providing a snap-fit mechanism for secure attachment and easy removal, allowing accessories to be quickly and easily mounted at various positions along a rail or support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple hook formation is moulded into a trim component, then the manufacturing cost is low and structure is simple, but the usability and security of attachment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening device is divided into separate functional components: a resilient member for engagement, a cam feature for pivoting motion, and contact regions for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening device incorporates a resilient member that can deflect during engagement, transitioning from a static structure to a dynamic one. This allows the device to adapt during installation and provide secure attachment through elastic deformation and pivoting motion about the cam feature.
2Reliability
If a secure fastening mechanism is implemented, then the reliability of attachment is improved, but the ease of removal and installation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cam feature utilizes a curved profile with defined contact regions that guide the pivoting motion during engagement and disengagement. This curved geometry enables the fastening device to snap securely into place while also allowing easy removal through reverse pivoting motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening mechanism operates through periodic pivoting motion about the cam feature, transitioning between engaged and disengaged states. This periodic action allows the user to securely attach or remove the accessory by simply pivoting the device back and forth.
3Strength
If a resilient member with cam feature is used, then the robustness and security of engagement is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member and cam feature are merged into a single integrated component, combining the elastic engagement function with the pivoting motion mechanism. This reduces the total number of parts and simplifies manufacturing while maintaining robust engagement through the combined functionality.
4Productivity
If the fastening device is designed for easy installation, then the productivity of mounting accessories is improved, but the stability and resistance to sliding may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening device incorporates tactile feedback through the snap-fit engagement mechanism, providing audible and tactile confirmation when the accessory is securely mounted. This feedback ensures proper engagement while maintaining quick installation through the simple pivoting motion required to achieve it.
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 enables robust and secure attachment of accessories, preventing sliding and facilitating easy installation and removal, while providing tactile feedback for correct positioning, thus enhancing the usability and flexibility of the mounting system.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient member includes a cam feature to bear against the inner support surface. The cam feature may be located at or near to the mid-point of the resilient member. The resilience of the member permits it to deflect during engagement with the accessory support so it exerts a gripping force thereon.
Implementation Method 2
The cam feature includes a profiled outer surface that defines a first contact region for bearing against the inner support surface of the accessory support in the region of the first wall portion and a second contact region for bearing against the inner support surface of the accessory support in the region of the second wall portion; and a further surface extending obliquely between the first and second contact regions. During use, the fastening device is configured to pivot about the cam feature so that the fastening device engages onto the accessory support, during which movement of the cam feature transitions from the oblique further surface being in contact with the inner support surface of the accessory support, to the second contact region being in contact with the inner support surface about a transition edge so that the fastening device snaps into engagement with the accessory support.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6a
AI summary
An accessory mounting system for a vehicle, comprising an accessory support including a first wall portion defining an outer support surface and an inner support surface; and a fastening device for fastening an accessory to the accessory support; wherein the fastening device includes a first structure and a clamping formation arranged to engage with the inner support surface so as to clamp the accessory support between the clamping formation and the first structure of the fastening device. A further aspect of the invention relates to an accessory for use in the system.