Vehicle Accessory Port Latching With Tamper Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle mounting systems are cumbersome, time-consuming to install, and lack an effective way to indicate unauthorized tampering or damage, making them susceptible to mechanical destruction.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system with integrated attachment ports and plugs that facilitate easy and secure mounting of accessories, featuring a latching mechanism and control circuitry to detect engagement and provide power, with different ports designed for various loads and functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mounting hardware is used, then mechanical securement is provided, but the system is difficult to install and time-consuming to uninstall and reinstall
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a base unit with mounting hardware and a detachable accessory component. This segmentation allows the base unit to remain permanently installed on the vehicle while only the accessory needs to be attached or detached, dramatically reducing installation time and effort for future use.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit with mounting hardware is pre-installed on the vehicle in advance. When the accessory is needed, only the attachment step is required rather than full installation, making the system easy to deploy repeatedly without time-consuming reinstallation of the entire mounting structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional roof racks with adapter mechanisms are used, then mounting capability is provided, but the system is difficult to install and typically left on the vehicle after use
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit is designed as a universal mounting platform that can accommodate multiple different accessory types through standardized attachment interfaces. This allows the same base unit to serve various mounting needs (roof racks, cargo carriers, bike racks, etc.) while maintaining ease of attachment and detachment for each accessory type.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a static, permanently installed structure to a dynamic system where accessories can be easily attached and detached. The quick-release mechanism enables the accessory to move between attached and detached states without complex adjustment procedures, making the system adaptable to changing user needs.
3Reliability
If mechanical mounting hardware is used, then securement is provided, but the system is susceptible to mechanical destruction by unauthorized users
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces purely mechanical mounting hardware with an electromechanical system that incorporates an electric motor-driven actuator. This motorized mechanism provides more reliable securement through controlled engagement and disengagement, while the electrical control system adds layers of security that are more resistant to unauthorized mechanical manipulation or destruction.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle may include an integrated connector system. The vehicle includes a body having an outer surface and a plurality of attachment ports arranged on the outer surface. The attachments ports include a recess that extends below the surrounding outer surface. Each attachment port is configured to receive and engage with an attachment plug of an accessory. In some embodiments, there are different types of attachment ports, configured to engage with respective types of attachment plugs. Various accessories may be engaged with the attachment ports, allowing a range of items and equipment to be secured to the vehicle.