Cargo Bed Dividing Member Support Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle cargo bed partitioning systems require users to position boards vertically into slots, which can be difficult without climbing into the bed or leaning at an uncomfortable angle, especially in hard-to-reach locations.
Innovation Solution
A support structure with a base and projections forming a cavity that allows the cargo bed dividing member to be pre-supported and rotated into a vertical orientation, enabling it to drop into place under its own weight, eliminating the need for manual vertical alignment and reaching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If boards are supported vertically along edges in slots formed in sidewalls, then the dividing member is securely positioned, but the user must climb into the bed or lean at an uncomfortable angle to install it
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure includes a pre-supported position that allows the board to be temporarily positioned horizontally or at an intermediate angle before final vertical installation. This preliminary positioning stage enables the user to engage the board with the support structure from a comfortable standing position outside the cargo bed, eliminating the need to climb in or lean at uncomfortable angles while maintaining secure final positioning
2Manufacturing precision
If the board must be dropped into the slot vertically, then proper positioning is achieved, but the user cannot easily reach certain locations without climbing into the bed
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure provides an intermediate horizontal or angled positioning dimension before the final vertical installation dimension. The board can first be positioned in this alternative dimension (horizontal/angled) where the user has adequate reach and access, then rotated or guided into the final vertical position, transforming a single-dimension difficult task into a multi-dimension manageable process
3Device complexity
If slots are formed directly in the sidewalls, then the structure is simple, but the user must position the board directly above the slot which is difficult for certain locations
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple functional components: a base portion that attaches to the sidewall, a pre-supported position component that extends outward to provide temporary positioning, and a final positioning component that guides vertical installation. This segmentation allows the structure to maintain relative simplicity while adding the functional complexity needed to enable convenient installation from outside the cargo bed
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
Facilitates easier and safer installation of cargo bed dividing members by allowing them to be pre-supported and rotated into position, reducing user effort and discomfort, especially in challenging locations.
Implementation Method 1
The cavity third wall portion and the cavity second wall portion are structured to maintain a cargo bed dividing member in a pre-support position prior to positioning of the dividing member between the cavity second wall portion and the cavity first wall portion
Implementation Method 2
The cavity second wall portion curved surface and sloped surface are structured such that a cargo bed dividing member in contact with the second projection is directed, under the force of its own weight, into a supported position within the first cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A support structure for a vehicle cargo bed dividing member includes a base, a first projection extending from the base, and a second projection extending from the base opposite the first projection so as to define a first cavity therebetween. The first projection defines a cavity first wall portion, and the second projection defines a cavity second wall portion positioned opposite the cavity first wall portion. The first projection also defines a cavity third wall portion extending opposite the cavity second wall portion from an end of the cavity first wall portion and in a direction away from the cavity second wall portion. The cavity third wall portion and the cavity second wall portion are structured to maintain a cargo bed dividing member in a pre-support position prior to positioning of the dividing member between the cavity second wall portion and the cavity first wall portion.