Adjustable Cargo Base Plate With Multi-Tier Track Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional vehicle upfit systems make it difficult to easily change or adjust base plates and accessories for different applications due to mechanical, bolt-on attachments, limiting versatility and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable base plate system with a track structure that allows for height adjustment and locking mechanisms, enabling quick installation and removal of base plates within a vehicle cargo area, using multiple tier tracks and rollers for positioning and a locking mechanism for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional mechanical bolt-on attachments are used to secure base plates, then the attachment strength is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in changing or adjusting base plates
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate system transitions from static bolt-on attachments to a dynamic quick-release mechanism. The base plate includes a release mechanism that allows the second set of attachment members to be disengaged from the second accessory without tools, enabling rapid adjustment while maintaining secure attachment during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical bolt-on system is replaced with a specialized quick-release attachment system. The attachment members engage with recesses in the accessories through a mechanism that provides secure holding during transport but allows tool-free release for reconfiguration.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed base plate configurations are used, then the manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the adaptability deteriorates due to inability to adjust for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate system is divided into separable components: the base plate itself, multiple accessories, and attachment members. This segmentation allows the base plate to remain a simple, easily manufactured component while achieving versatility through the combination of different accessories that can be attached and detached as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different accessories through the standardized attachment mechanism. The first and second sets of attachment members allow the same base plate to be configured for different applications by simply changing which accessories are attached.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment points are provided for accessory placement, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional track structures
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system utilizes vertical layering with a first set of attachment members and a second set of attachment members at different heights on the base plate. This dimensional arrangement provides multiple placement options without requiring complex horizontal track structures, achieving versatility through vertical stratification.
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
Provides a modular and adaptable mounting system that allows for secure attachment and easy switching of base plates and accessories, increasing cargo area utilization and versatility by allowing different functional configurations based on user needs.
Implementation Method 1
a first set of rollers on the first edge of the at least one base plate and a second set of rollers on the second edge of the at least one base plate
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable base plate system includes a first track structure configured to extend along one side of a vehicle cargo area and a second track structure configured to extend along an opposite side of a vehicle cargo area. At least one base plate has a first edge and a second edge opposite of the first edge, wherein the first edge is supported by the first track structure and the second edge is supported by the second track structure. The first track structure and the second track structure each comprise at least a first tier track and a second tier track such that a distance between a bottom surface of the at least one base plate and a support surface of the vehicle cargo area can be adjusted.