Convertible carrier rack and platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transportation solutions have limited cargo carrying capacity and cannot efficiently convert a cargo carrying device into a freestanding table-type platform for outdoor activities, requiring separate devices for cargo transport and workspace needs.
Innovation Solution
A convertible carrier rack and platform that can pivot, rotate, or detach to form legs from a flat surface, allowing it to function as both a cargo carrier and a stable table, with features like rotatable rail segments and a hitch connector assembly for vehicle attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate cargo rack and separate table are used, then cargo carrying capacity and workspace functionality are both achieved, but device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo rack is designed to perform two distinct functions: cargo transport and workspace provision. The same structural components (rails, platform, support legs) serve dual purposes - during transport the rails form cargo barriers, and during workspace configuration the rails transform into table legs, eliminating the need for separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the cargo rack structure with table structure by integrating the rails as multi-functional elements that can configurationally transform between cargo barrier and support leg roles, combining what would traditionally be separate devices into one unified system
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flat surface table device is brought to outdoor locations, then workspace functionality is provided, but space constraints prevent transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The table structure is segmented into collapsible components - the rails can be detached from the platform and folded into compact configurations during transport, reducing the volume occupied while maintaining the ability to assemble into a full workspace table at the destination
Solution Approach 2:
The rails are designed with dynamic reconfigurability, allowing them to transition between compact transport state and extended table-leg state through detachment and reattachment mechanisms, enabling space-efficient transportation while providing full workspace functionality when needed
3Quantity of substance
If cargo rack structure is used, then cargo carrying ability is maximized, but conversion to stable table configuration is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo rack is divided into modular segments (platform, rails, support legs) that can be independently manipulated and reconfigured. The rails are detachable components that can be easily removed and repositioned to form table legs, simplifying the conversion process while maintaining cargo carrying capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The conversion mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as detachable connections and movable support legs that enable straightforward transformation from cargo rack to table configuration, reducing operational complexity while preserving structural integrity and cargo capacity
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a convertible carrier rack and platform including a platform, a front rail including a pair of front rail segments, and a back rail including a pair of back rail segments, wherein the front and back rail segments are each removable and/or rotatable between a wall position along the front and back faces of the platform and a leg position for operation in a table-type mode.