Configurable Workstation for Utility Vehicles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Utility vehicles, such as golf carts, lack storage options and a work surface for tools, supplies, and food items, limiting their functionality for workers and golfers who need to access and transport these items conveniently across large sites.

Innovation Solution

A configurable workstation system that includes a mounting body with interchangeable storage compartments and a work surface, securely coupled to the utility vehicle using a bagwell interlock and compression mount, allowing for customizable storage and a portable work area.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If utility vehicles are used for transportation, then mobility and convenience are improved, but storage capacity and work surface availability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemobility and convenienceVSAvoidstorage capacity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The storage system is divided into multiple removable modules that can be independently configured and attached to the utility vehicle. Each module serves specific storage needs (tools, supplies, food items), allowing the vehicle to maintain mobility while providing substantial storage capacity through segmented, attachable units.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The workstation modules are designed to be universally applicable to various utility vehicle platforms. The same module design can serve multiple functions including storage, work surface, and tool organization, making the system adaptable to different vehicle types and user needs while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If utility vehicles are used for transportation, then mobility is improved, but work surface availability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovemobilityVSAvoidwork surface area

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The work surface is implemented as a removable module that can be dynamically attached when work is needed and detached when not needed. This dynamic configuration allows the vehicle to maintain full mobility while providing adequate work surface area on-demand at various locations around the worksite.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The work surface functionality is added as a separate dimensional element (the removable module) rather than being integrated into the vehicle body. This allows the work surface to be deployed in another dimension (as an attachable component) without compromising the vehicle's inherent mobility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Quantity of substance

If storage compartments are added to utility vehicles, then storage capacity is improved, but device complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capacityVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of integrating complex storage structures into the vehicle body, the storage capacity is achieved through segmented, standalone modules that attach to the vehicle. Each module is a simple, self-contained unit, keeping individual component complexity low while providing substantial total storage capacity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The removable modules serve as intermediary elements between the vehicle and the stored items. These modules provide the storage functionality without requiring complex integration with the vehicle structure, simplifying the overall system while maintaining adequate storage capacity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Area of stationary object

If fixed workbench is installed on utility vehicle, then work surface availability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvework surface areaVSAvoidconfigurability

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The work surface transitions from a fixed installation to a dynamic, removable module. This allows the work surface area to be available when needed while maintaining full adaptability, as the module can be repositioned, reconfigured, or removed entirely based on changing operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The removable work surface module is designed to be universally applicable to different vehicle configurations and work scenarios. The same module can serve as a work surface, storage container, or tool organizer, providing adaptability across multiple functions while maintaining adequate work surface area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10814926B2Utility vehicle configurable workstation

Publication Date: 2020.10.27 19TH HOLE CART

AI summary

Disclosed is a configurable workstation for coupling to a utility vehicle. The workstation allows for fast, simple, and secure mounting to the utility vehicle by way of a conforming surface engaging with the utility vehicle's rear platform or bagwell. The workstation is configurable in a number of customized forms depending on the use requirements of the utility vehicle and workstation and may include drawers, an interchangeable work surface with or without a backsplash, cabinets, or bins in many different combinations. Examples of the interchangeable work surface include a countertop, a wooden or metal workbench, and other removable and exchangeable work surfaces according to the application desired.