Universal Wheel Chock Hanger for Multi-Chock Auto-Rack Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle restraint systems in auto-rack cars, such as the Holden and Anderson Chocks, do not adequately secure vehicles during transport, leading to potential damage and are not well-suited for holding multiple types of wheel restraints or chocks when not in use, necessitating a universal solution for secure storage.

Innovation Solution

A universal vehicle wheel chock hanger is designed to be attached to the side wall of auto-rack cars, featuring a mounting base and a rack that can hold various types of chocks, including Holden and Anderson Chocks, with front and rear grate engagers for secure attachment and storage, compatible with existing storage pans to accommodate different chock configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a universal chock hanger is designed to accommodate multiple types of chocks, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to hold multiple types of chocksVSAvoidstructural complexity of hanger system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hanger assembly is designed with a universal mounting base and rack structure that can accommodate multiple types of chocks (Holden and Anderson configurations) through standardized mounting points and adjustable holding positions, allowing one device to perform multiple functions without requiring separate storage systems for each chock type

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The hanger assembly is divided into modular components including a mounting base, rack structure, and individual holding positions that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different chock types while maintaining overall structural integrity and simplifying installation与维护

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If chocks are securely held during severe jolts and coupling actions, then reliability is improved, but the force requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure holding during transport and switchingVSAvoidforce required to resist jolts and coupling
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting base and rack structure are combined into an integrated assembly that distributes and shares the force loads from severe jolts and coupling actions across multiple mounting points and structural elements, reducing the force requirement on any single component while maintaining reliable chock retention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The rack structure incorporates curved or angled support surfaces that better conform to the geometry of different chock types, increasing contact area and distributing forces more evenly across the chock-hanger interface, thereby improving reliability without requiring excessive clamping force

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Ease of operation

If existing storage pans are used for Holden Restraints, then ease of operation is maintained, but adaptability to new chock designs deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with existing storage systemsVSAvoidability to accommodate Anderson Chocks and other designs
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The hanger assembly serves as an intermediary component that interfaces between existing storage pan configurations and new chock designs. It provides a standardized mounting interface that can adapt to both traditional Holden Restraints and newer Anderson Chock configurations, bridging the gap between legacy and modern systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8714375B2Auto-rack railroad car vehicle wheel chock hanger
Publication Date: 2014.05.06 TRANSPORTATION IP HOLDINGS LLC
  • US8714375B2 patent drawing
  • US8714375B2 patent drawing
  • US8714375B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle wheel chock hanger for a vehicle restraint system for an auto-rack railroad car that is configured to hold various different chocks that are configured to secure vehicles in auto-rack railroad cars.