Multi-Channel Cross-Struts for Sliding Truck Bed Beam Assemblies
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Unistrut channels lack flexibility in attaching components facing different directions, requiring time-consuming modifications like welding or drilling, and lack surfaces for smooth rolling and sliding, resulting in structures with low structural integrity and weight efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The proposed structural channels have a cross-section defining multiple channels that allow for independent linear motion in multiple directions, with guiding features for load distribution and smooth action, providing platforms for component attachment and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Unistrut channels are used for structural support, then structural integrity is provided, but flexibility in attaching components facing different directions is lost, requiring time-consuming modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The Unistrut channel is segmented into multiple modular sections with standardized attachment points at various orientations. Each segment can be independently configured to accommodate components facing different directions without requiring modification to the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel design incorporates universal attachment mechanisms that can accommodate components in multiple directions using the same base structure. Standardized holes and mounting surfaces are positioned to provide versatile attachment options for various component orientations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional fasteners and modifications are added to Unistrut for multi-directional attachments, then component attachment capability is improved, but structural integrity and weight efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple attachment functions for different directions are merged into a single integrated channel design. The channel incorporates attachment points for various orientations within one continuous structural element, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement components and maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel serves multiple attachment functions simultaneously with its standardized holes and surfaces positioned to accommodate components in various directions, providing multi-directional attachment capability without compromising structural strength.
3Ease of operation
If Unistrut channels are used for structural support, then structural integrity is provided, but surfaces for smooth rolling and sliding are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The channel incorporates localized smooth surfaces in specific areas where rolling and sliding operations are required, while maintaining the structural integrity of the overall channel. These smooth surfaces are positioned at contact points with carriers without compromising the load-bearing capacity of the channel structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology relates to beams having a cross section defining a plurality of channels and assemblies comprising the beams. The beams can be used to form a beam assembly that is installed inside the truck bed of a pick-up truck. A ladder loader and a solar panel assembly can be pivotably secured to the beam assembly along either the driver side wall or the passenger side wall of the truck bed.