Cargo Track Assembly With Quick-Swap Base Plates and Storage Bins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle upfit systems face challenges in easily switching between different types of base plates and accessories due to mechanical, bolt-on physical attachments, making it difficult to adapt to various tasks and applications.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable base plate system with a quick connect/disconnect capability, integrated with a track assembly, allowing for flexible placement and movement of accessories within the vehicle cargo area, and receptacles that automatically adjust positions based on the tailgate movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical bolt-on physical attachments are used to secure accessories, then the accessories are firmly secured, but it becomes difficult to switch between different types of base plates and accessories
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate modular components: a base plate that can be detached from the track assembly, and accessories that can be independently attached and removed. This segmentation allows different base plates and accessories to be easily swapped without requiring complex reconfiguration of the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate is designed with dynamic attachment and detachment capabilities, allowing it to be quickly connected and disconnected from the track assembly. This dynamic interface enables users to switch between different base plates and accessories efficiently, transforming a static fixed-attachment system into a flexible configurable one.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed attachment methods are used, then accessories are securely mounted, but adaptability to various tasks and applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple base plates and accessories are prepared in advance and can be quickly swapped into position. The preliminary preparation of interchangeable components allows users to have different configurations ready for various tasks, reducing the time needed to adapt to different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic quick-connect mechanism allows base plates and accessories to be rapidly attached and detached without requiring tools or complex procedures. This dynamic interface significantly reduces the time penalty associated with changing accessories while maintaining secure mounting during use.
3Quantity of substance
If receptacles are mounted in distal ends of track structures, then storage capacity is increased, but the receptacles need to accommodate tailgate movement
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle mounting structure is merged with the track assembly, utilizing the existing track structure to provide both structural support and positioning for the receptacles. This integration eliminates the need for separate positioning mechanisms while ensuring the receptacles move appropriately with tailgate operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The track structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the base plates, enables their movement along the track, and simultaneously serves as the mounting structure for the receptacles in the distal ends. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining storage capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method include providing a track assembly that supports at least one accessory base plate in a vehicle cargo area, wherein the track assembly extends to a distal end that faces a tailgate. One or more receptacles are mounted within the distal end, and each receptacle is moveable between an open position and a closed position.