Dual-Access Utility Truck Drawer With Multi-Position Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard utility truck drawer systems restrict access to tools and equipment, allowing access only from one side and are unstable when parked on angled surfaces due to size constraints and lack of secure latching in extension positions.
Innovation Solution
A dual-access drawer system with a track assembly and drawer assembly that allows extension and retraction from both sides, featuring catch points for secure positioning in multiple extension levels, ensuring stability and accessibility from either side of the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If standard drawers are positioned on opposite sides of the truck with length shorter than one-half the width, then the drawers will not interfere with each other when closed, but the user can access each drawer only from the side where it is located
Solution Approach 1:
The drawer is configured to extend in two opposite directions (driver's side and passenger's side) from a central position, transforming the traditional single-direction extension into a bidirectional system. This allows the drawer to be accessed from either side of the vehicle while maintaining sufficient length to provide useful storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The drawer system is designed to serve multiple functions: it can be accessed from either side of the vehicle, positioned in multiple extension states (fully retracted, partially extended, fully extended), and used by different users simultaneously from opposite sides, thereby increasing operational versatility.
2Reliability
If standard drawers are secured only when fully retracted, then the structure is simple, but the drawers can unexpectedly move or shift when parked on angled surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The latching system is designed to automatically engage at predetermined positions (fully retracted and intermediate extension positions) without requiring manual intervention. The catch points and fixed stops are pre-positioned to ensure the drawer is secured before the user even realizes it needs to be latched, preventing movement on inclined surfaces proactively.
Solution Approach 2:
The drawer system automatically latches itself at specific positions through the interaction of catch points and fixed stops. When the drawer reaches a predetermined extension position, the catch points automatically engage with the fixed stops, providing self-latching functionality that maintains stability without requiring active user engagement.
3Ease of operation
If the drawer is extended fully on one side, then maximum storage access is achieved, but the drawer cannot be accessed from the other side
Solution Approach 1:
The drawer system is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to be stopped at multiple extension positions along its travel path. The user can extend the drawer partially to one side, lock it at an intermediate position, access items, then retract and extend to the other side as needed. This dynamic control enables flexible access from either side while maintaining total storage capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A drawer system and method for carrying and transporting tools and equipment on a vehicle. In particular, embodiments of the present invention are directed to a drawer system mounted into the rear section of a utility truck and that includes a drawer that is accessible from either side of the truck. Further, the drawer system of the present invention includes multiple catch points that permit the drawer to be securely arranged in a plurality of preferred extension positions.