Adjustable Cargo Deck Structure With Vertical Ramp Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing decking systems in vehicles lack the ability to adjust and compartmentalize cargo spaces efficiently, which limits storage capacity and complicates loading and unloading processes.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable deck system comprising multiple decks that can be moved vertically and rotated to form ramps, allowing for customizable compartmentalization of cargo spaces and enhanced loading efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed decking systems are used in cargo compartments, then structural simplicity is maintained, but cargo space adaptability and storage capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The decking system employs movable decks that can be adjusted vertically along guide rails and rotated to form ramps. The decks are equipped with actuators, motors, and control systems that enable dynamic reconfiguration between horizontal storage positions and inclined ramp positions, transforming a static structure into an adaptive system that responds to varying cargo requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The deck structure serves multiple functions: it acts as a horizontal shelf for storage when in the horizontal position, transforms into a loading ramp when rotated, provides structural support for cargo, and creates compartmentalization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fixed ramps and shelves, achieving versatility without proportional increases in complexity
2Volume of moving object
If adjustable decks are added to increase storage capacity, then cargo compartment capacity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo compartment is divided into multiple adjustable deck levels, creating separate storage zones. Each deck can be independently positioned at different heights along guide rails, enabling flexible compartmentalization that maximizes vertical space utilization while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The decking system integrates multiple functional components within a compact structure: actuators are housed within the deck assembly, guide rails are mounted on compartment walls, and control systems are integrated into the deck structure. This nesting approach minimizes additional space requirements despite the added functionality
3Ease of operation
If decks are made movable to simplify loading, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability and stability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically positions the decks to predetermined horizontal levels before loading operations begin. The decks are pre-configured to stable positions using actuators and motors, ensuring that when cargo loading starts, the structural foundation is already optimized for stability. This preliminary positioning eliminates instability during the loading process
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rails act as intermediary structures that constrain deck movement to precise vertical paths during adjustment and provide stable support when decks are in horizontal positions. The guide rails transfer loads between movable decks and fixed compartment structure, maintaining reliability during transitions and stable support during cargo operations
Data Source
AI summary
A deck system for cargo compartment may including one or more of the following features: a first deck; a second deck, where at least one of the first deck and the second deck divide the cargo compartment into an upper sub-compartment and a lower sub-compartment; and an actuator that is mechanically coupled to the second deck, where operation of the actuator causes at least a portion of the second deck to move vertically relative to the first deck within the cargo compartment.