Adjustable Truck Bed Shield for Oversized Cargo

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cargo load restraining devices fail to effectively secure oversized cargo that extends beyond the truck bed, posing safety risks to drivers and pedestrians due to inadequate coverage and adjustability.

Innovation Solution

A cargo load restraining device comprising a two-piece adjustable aluminum shield with vertically extendable arms and a horizontal bar, providing comprehensive coverage and securement by attaching to truck bed rails and incorporating adjustable features to accommodate various load sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing cargo load restraining devices are used, then the truck bed can be covered, but oversized cargo extending beyond the truck bed cannot be effectively secured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage capabilityVSAvoidsecuring effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device employs vertically extendable arms that can be adjusted to different heights and positions along the truck bed rails. This dynamic adjustability allows the shield to adapt to various cargo sizes and configurations, providing effective coverage for both standard truck bed cargo and oversized cargo extending beyond the bed boundaries.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The restraining device is divided into multiple independent components: vertically extendable arms, a horizontal bar, and a shield assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and adjusted to accommodate different cargo configurations, enhancing both adaptability and securing effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If fixed-size restraining devices are used, then the structure is simple, but they cannot accommodate different sized loads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural simplicityVSAvoidload size accommodation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The arms are designed with vertical extendability and pivotal attachment points, enabling them to be adjusted to different heights and angles. This dynamic configuration allows the same device structure to accommodate a wide range of load sizes without requiring multiple different devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can restrain cargo of varying sizes, adjust to different truck bed configurations, and provide both coverage and securing. The universal design allows a single device to replace what would otherwise require multiple specialized restraining devices.

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

3Reliability

If complex restraining mechanisms are used, then securing effectiveness is improved, but the device becomes expensive to implement and maintain

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring effectivenessVSAvoidimplementation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the device into separate modular components (arms, horizontal bar, shield), each part can be manufactured using simple, cost-effective processes. The segmented design also simplifies maintenance, as individual components can be replaced or repaired independently without replacing the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dynamic adjustability is achieved through straightforward mechanical means (pivotal attachments, vertical extension mechanisms) rather than complex automated systems. This keeps the implementation cost low while maintaining high securing effectiveness through proper mechanical design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11440459B1Cargo load restraining device
Publication Date: 2022.09.13 NUNN MARVIN
  • US11440459B1 patent drawing
  • US11440459B1 patent drawing
  • US11440459B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for a truck bed extender including a shield assembly, a frame assembly and a vehicle assembly is disclosed. The shield assembly includes a shield that is secured to a frame of the frame assembly. The frame is secured to a truck bed of a vehicle with mounting members. The shield includes a first shield portion and a second shield portion that are slidably attached together by a shield pin. The shield has an L shaped configuration to prevent items from sliding off of the truck bed. The shield provides protection to the top of the truck bed. The second shield portion is adjustable in length to secure items of different lengths onto the truck bed. The frame is adjustable in height to help accommodate and secure items of different heights onto the truck bed with the shield.