Vehicle Cargo Deck Layout for Rapid Access Equipment Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing law enforcement vehicles lack efficient storage solutions that provide rapid access to essential equipment like tire deflation devices, firearms, and less-than-lethal weapons, necessitating improved storage and access systems in utility vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A cargo deck system with a storage lid containing rapid-access compartments and a structural platform for additional storage units, featuring frame halves, an electronics drawer, and a pivoting lid that provides quick access to the spare tire and essential items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If equipment is stored in the lower rear cargo area under the floor, then storage capacity is improved, but access speed to emergency items deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo deck is segmented into multiple storage compartments (first storage compartment for rapid access items, second storage compartment for additional equipment, third storage compartment for spare tire). This segmentation allows different types of equipment to be stored in optimally positioned compartments, with critical emergency items in the first compartment accessible via the first access opening, while maintaining overall storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical dimension by creating a deck structure that extends into the cargo area, forming multiple levels of storage. The cargo deck creates upward and downward access openings, effectively using the vertical space to provide both storage capacity and rapid access without compromising either requirement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a cargo deck is installed to provide storage, then storage organization is improved, but access to spare tire deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo deck is divided into distinct compartments, with the third storage compartment specifically dedicated to spare tire storage. This compartment is accessible through a second access opening in the deck, allowing organized storage of the spare tire while maintaining independent access that does not interfere with access to other equipment compartments.
Solution Approach 2:
The cargo deck structure acts as an intermediary between the cargo area and the spare tire storage location. By incorporating a dedicated third access opening for the spare tire compartment, the deck serves as a mediator that organizes storage while preserving direct access pathways to the spare tire without requiring removal of the entire deck structure.
3Loss of time
If rapid access items are placed in the rear cargo area, then emergency response time is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Rapid access items are placed in a dedicated first storage compartment with its own access opening, separate from the main cargo area. This compartment is integrated into the cargo deck structure, which provides structural support. The segmentation allows emergency items to be quickly accessed while the overall deck structure maintains structural stability for the vehicle floor.
Solution Approach 2:
The first storage compartment for rapid access items is merged with the cargo deck structure itself, rather than being a separate attachment. This integration ensures that the rapid access compartment benefits from the structural stability of the deck while maintaining direct access through the first access opening, resolving the conflict between quick access and structural integrity.
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
The system ensures rapid access to critical equipment while maintaining a structurally sound surface for other storage, reducing rattle and wear, and accommodating various materials and equipment types.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating a foam insert, secure lock, and gas struts for easy operation
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo and storage deck for securement within the cargo area of a vehicle. The cargo area of the vehicle has a floor surface. The deck includes a deck upper surface, a support member holding the deck above the floor of the vehicle, and a lid on the rearward side to enclose the storage area. The deck surface creates a storage area underneath such deck surface and above the vehicle floor surface. The support member is secured to the vehicle and to the deck surface. The lid is hingedly secured to the support member or to the deck surface. The lid provides access to the storage area beneath the deck surface. The lid has an inner side facing the storage area and an outer side opposite the inner side and includes a lid stowage compartment accessible on the outer side of the lid.