Adjustable Cargo Stacking Rails and Beams for Stable Space Use

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Solution Overview

Problem

Cargo vehicles often face challenges in maximizing the efficient use of cargo space due to the varying sizes and orientations of cargo units, leading to significant wasted space in the upper portions of the vehicle.

Innovation Solution

A cargo storage system comprising a pair of rails extending along the length of the cargo storage area and a plurality of support beams that extend between and are supported by these rails, allowing for adjustable and secure stacking of cargo.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If cargo units are stacked vertically to maximize space utilization, then the volume of cargo storage is improved, but the stability and safety of cargo stacking deteriorates when cargo units are relatively short compared to vehicle height

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecargo storage volumeVSAvoidcargo stacking stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The support beams are designed to be movable along the rails, allowing dynamic adjustment of stacking height and configuration. This enables the system to adapt to different cargo unit heights, providing stable support even when cargo units are short relative to vehicle height, while still maximizing vertical space utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows changing the vertical position parameter of support beams along the rails. By adjusting the height and position of support beams according to the specific dimensions of cargo units, the system maintains optimal stacking stability while maximizing cargo storage volume for various cargo configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If fixed stacking configurations are used to ensure cargo stability, then the reliability of cargo transport is improved, but the adaptability to different cargo sizes and orientations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecargo transport stabilityVSAvoidcargo configuration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support beams can move along the rails to different positions, enabling the system to adapt to various cargo sizes, shapes, and orientations. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains cargo stability for each specific configuration while providing versatility for different cargo types and transport requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The rail and support beam system serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables height adjustment, allows lateral positioning, and accommodates different cargo configurations. This multi-functional design ensures reliable cargo transport across diverse scenarios while maintaining high adaptability.

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

3Productivity

If multiple support structures are added to enhance cargo stacking capability, then the productivity of cargo loading is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecargo loading efficiencyVSAvoidsupport structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support system is segmented into modular components: rails mounted on vehicle walls and movable support beams that can independently position themselves. This segmentation allows for efficient cargo loading through simple component interactions while avoiding the complexity of integrated rigid structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support beams are designed to be self-positioning along the rails, enabling quick adjustment and deployment without complex control mechanisms. This self-service capability enhances cargo loading productivity while maintaining relatively simple device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 effectively utilizes the available space by allowing for customizable stacking of cargo, reducing waste and enhancing the overall capacity of the cargo vehicle.

Implementation Method 1

each track guide may comprise at least one load roller configured to bear against the associated track

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRolling friction: Roller

Data Source

PatentUS12280706B2Cargo stacking devices and systems
Publication Date: 2025.04.22 NZEE LODA
  • US12280706B2 patent drawing
  • US12280706B2 patent drawing
  • US12280706B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cargo storage system has at least one pair of rails configured to extend along a length of the cargo storage area in a horizontal direction, the pair of rails comprising a first rail configured to extend along a first side of the cargo storage area, and a second rail configured to extend along a second side of the cargo storage area opposing the first rail. The cargo system further has a plurality of support beams extending between, and supported by, the first rail and the second rail. Different configurations of the rails, profiles for the rails, and platform members to be secured between the support beams are also described.