Adaptive Trunk Cargo Stabilizer With Self-Locking Side Panels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle trunk organizers lack the ability to quickly and securely adjust to fit various load sizes while also providing compact storage when not in use, failing to balance adaptability and security effectively.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable trunk organizer with self-locking mechanism, featuring adjustable side panels and an automatic slide lock, allowing for seamless adjustment and secure locking without manual intervention, along with a removable divider for customizable compartments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the trunk organizer is designed with fixed size, then it provides stable structure and easy manufacturing, but it cannot accommodate varying cargo sizes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to varying cargo sizesVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trunk organizer employs adjustable side panels that can dynamically change length to accommodate different cargo sizes. The side panels include extension portions that can be extended or retracted based on storage needs, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to varying requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The side panels are divided into multiple segments including main body portions and extension portions that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows the organizer to be customized for different cargo dimensions while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the trunk organizer includes manual locking mechanisms, then it can secure items effectively, but it requires manual intervention and increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of cargoVSAvoidease of adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The trunk organizer incorporates an automatic locking mechanism that engages the side panels in their adjusted positions without requiring manual intervention. The locking system automatically secures the extension portions when they are extended or retracted, providing reliable cargo security while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual locking mechanism is replaced with an automatic locking system that uses mechanical principles to self-engage and secure the side panels. This substitution eliminates the need for manual locking operations while maintaining effective cargo security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the trunk organizer is designed to be fully expandable, then it accommodates large cargo, but it cannot provide compact storage when not in use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapacity for various load sizesVSAvoidstorage space when not in use
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The trunk organizer is designed with collapsible side panels that can be folded flat when not in use, transforming from an expanded state that accommodates large cargo to a compact state that minimizes storage space. This dynamic transformation allows the organizer to provide both large capacity when needed and compact storage when not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Volume of moving object

If the trunk organizer uses simple foldable design, then it offers compact storage, but it lacks secure locking mechanism for transit stability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompactness when storedVSAvoidstability during transit
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The automatic locking mechanism activates when the side panels are extended to their storage position, providing secure locking without requiring additional manual steps. This self-service locking ensures transit stability while maintaining the simplicity of the foldable design for compact storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20260014937A1Trunk Cargo Stabilizer with Adaptive Sizing Mechanism
Publication Date: 2026.01.15 COGLITORE SANTO J
  • US20260014937A1 patent drawing
  • US20260014937A1 patent drawing
  • US20260014937A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In some aspects, the present invention discloses an adjustable trunk organizer designed to securely accommodate varying cargo sizes in vehicle trunks. The organizer features a base portion and multiple interconnected side panels, with at least two opposing panels being adjustable in length. An integrated adjustment mechanism allows for expansion or contraction of these panels to fit different load sizes snugly. A key feature is the locking mechanism, which secures the adjustable panels in the desired position, preventing unwanted cargo movement during transit. This locking mechanism can include manual options like latches or thumb screws, or an automatic slide lock for effortless securing. Additional features include a removable divider for creating separate compartments, foldability for compact storage, and a non-slip base. This versatile organizer enhances cargo security, maximizes space utilization, and improves overall trunk organization efficiency.