Apertured Base Plate Mat With Removable Secure Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle cargo or work areas lack a flexible and efficient system to securely support and protect accessories while allowing easy installation and removal of mats for uninterrupted support surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A mat with an attachment structure that is selectively securable to a base plate via apertures, allowing quick attachment and detachment, and featuring various attachment mechanisms such as clips, fasteners, or inserts to secure the mat to the base plate, which can be stored underneath when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mat is permanently attached to the base plate, then the support surface is continuous and protected, but the flexibility to remove or reposition the mat is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The mat attachment system transitions from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic removable attachment. The base plate includes multiple apertures that accept attachment structures (such as clips, fasteners, or interference-fit elements) allowing the mat to be selectively attached and detached. This dynamic attachment mechanism maintains support surface continuity when attached while providing flexibility for removal and repositioning when needed.
2Reliability
If multiple attachment structures are provided for the mat, then the mat can be securely fixed to the base plate, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate incorporates multiple apertures that can accommodate various types of attachment structures (clips, fasteners, interference-fit elements). This universal attachment interface allows a single base plate design to work with different mat attachment mechanisms, providing secure fixation without requiring multiple specialized attachment systems. The apertures serve multiple functions: securing the mat, allowing removal, and potentially supporting other accessories.
3Strength
If the mat is made thicker for durability, then the protection and support are improved, but the storage space requirements and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mat incorporates variable thickness with different zones optimized for specific functions. The central area has greater thickness to provide enhanced durability, support, and protection where needed, while the peripheral edges have reduced thickness to minimize storage volume and weight. This local quality variation allows the mat to maintain structural integrity in critical areas while reducing overall material consumption and storage requirements.
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 continuous and uninterrupted support surface for vehicle cargo areas, protecting the base plate and accessories from debris and water, with easy installation and removal, and includes features for drainage and lighting.
Implementation Method 1
the mat includes a persistent luminescent material
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises a base plate including a plurality of apertures and a mat. At least a first set of apertures of the plurality of apertures are configured to receive a mounting foot from an accessory to be mounted on the base plate. The mat includes an attachment structure that is selectively securable to the base plate via one or more apertures of the plurality of apertures.