Collapsible U-Shaped Riser for Automotive Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for automotive repair require multiple step stools to be moved to different positions, adding complexity and requiring more space, especially for tall vehicles like pickup trucks, and lack a compact storage solution.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible and adjustable U-shaped riser system formed from L-shaped boxes that can be adjusted to fit different vehicles, allowing for minimal storage and easy movement, constructed from planar members and metal framing for ease of assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple step stools are used to reach different positions, then access to vehicle components is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple step stools into a single continuous raised platform that can accommodate multiple users simultaneously. This unified structure eliminates the need for multiple separate stools and provides continuous access along the front of the vehicle, directly resolving the contradiction between improved access and reduced device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The riser system serves multiple functions: it provides a raised platform for multiple users, allows movement to different positions along the vehicle, and can be adjusted for different vehicle types. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple single-purpose step stools, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining operational ease
2Adaptability or versatility
If step stools are moved to different positions for different repairs, then adaptability to different vehicles is improved, but time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The riser system incorporates adjustable and movable components that allow it to be configured for different vehicle types and positions. The structure can be extended, repositioned, and reconfigured along the vehicle front, providing adaptability without requiring multiple separate stools to be moved, thus reducing time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous raised platform is divided into multiple sections or modules that can be independently adjusted and repositioned. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different vehicle configurations while maintaining a unified structure, eliminating the need to move multiple separate stools and reducing operational time
3Ease of operation
If a continuous raised area is provided for multiple users, then ease of operation is improved, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The riser system is designed with nested or collapsible sections that allow the extended continuous platform to be folded or compressed into a compact configuration for storage. When not in use, the structure can be reduced to a minimum space position, eliminating the contradiction between providing a large continuous working area and requiring minimal storage space
4Ease of manufacture
If the riser is constructed from multiple smaller components, then ease of assembly and shipping is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The riser system is divided into standardized modular components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. These segments are designed to connect through simple joining mechanisms, making assembly straightforward despite the multiple components. The segmentation facilitates shipping while maintaining ease of assembly through standardized connection interfaces
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to risers for automotive repair and to related methods and systems. In a first illustrative embodiment, a generally U-shaped riser is formed from two boxes each having a generally L shape. A latitudinal portion of the riser is formed from the adjustable joining of the two boxes, with the remainder of the L-shaped portions disposed in an orthogonal direction. A vehicle may be positioned within the U-shaped riser and the two boxes adjusted to place the riser adjacent the vehicle. When not in use, the riser may be reduced to a minimum space position and stored. The riser may be formed from a number of smaller components, such as planar members or metal framing, allowing it to be taken apart for longer storage or for ease of shipping.