Motor Vehicle Adapter With Integrated Latching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for securing measurement technology and other objects within a motor vehicle during test drives are cumbersome and often difficult due to the lack of lashing points, requiring a more efficient and secure attachment solution.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with a latching device featuring locking fingers and a ratchet mechanism that allows for quick and secure attachment to the vehicle, including a spacer for distance maintenance and a floor support to prevent movement, along with a ball and socket joint for versatile object alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lashing down measurement technology is done manually with lashing eyes, then the measurement technology can be securely connected to the vehicle, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lashing function from manual operations and integrates it into the adapter structure itself. The adapter includes integrated lashing eyes and a lashing device that is permanently attached to the adapter, eliminating the need for separate manual lashing operations while maintaining secure connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed to be self-lashing through its integrated lashing device that can be quickly engaged with the vehicle structure. The lashing mechanism is built into the adapter itself, allowing it to secure itself without requiring external manual intervention, thus reducing time loss while maintaining reliability
2Ease of operation
If lashing eyes are attached everywhere on the vehicle, then lashing becomes easier and faster, but the vehicle structure becomes more complex and requires additional modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lashing function from the vehicle structure and concentrates it in the adapter component. Instead of adding lashing eyes throughout the vehicle, the lashing capability is localized to the adapter which can be positioned at optimal locations. This reduces vehicle structure complexity while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves multiple functions: it provides mounting for measurement technology, includes integrated lashing capability, and can be positioned at various locations on the vehicle. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate components or vehicle modifications, reducing overall system complexity while improving ease of operation
3Ease of operation
If measurement technology is placed in the vehicle interior for accessibility, then it can be easily accessed during test drives, but it becomes vulnerable to movement and damage during driving maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is pre-equipped with lashing eyes and an integrated lashing device before being installed in the vehicle. This preliminary preparation allows for quick and reliable securing to the vehicle structure immediately upon installation, preventing movement during driving maneuvers while maintaining accessibility within the interior
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter design allows for dynamic adjustment of the lashing tension and positioning. The lashing device can be adjusted to accommodate different vehicle configurations and driving conditions, maintaining both accessibility and fixation stability under varying operational conditions
Data Source
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AI summary
Adapter for a motor vehicle, with a mounting plate (6), wherein one, in particular two, locking devices (5) for locking the adapter (1) to a bracket attached to the motor vehicle are arranged on the mounting plate (6), and wherein at least one fastening device (14) for attaching an object (7) to the adapter (1) is arranged on the mounting plate (6).