Dual-Function Rack and Stand for Portable Conveyance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing portable conveyances are heavy, difficult to tow, require lateral support during storage which can damage surfaces, and lack cargo transport capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A dual-function apparatus that functions as a rack in the unfolded position and a stand or towing assembly in the folded position, with a multi-position attachment system allowing for secure cargo transport and balanced towing, reducing user fatigue and storage footprint.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the portable conveyance uses two rear drive wheels that also serve as tow wheels, then towing stability is improved, but the rear-wheel footprint increases requiring more storage space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetowing stabilityVSAvoidstorage footprint

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The conveyance is divided into separate functional components: two rear drive wheels for stable towing, and a collapsible frame that reduces storage footprint. The steering assembly is also segmented and can be folded independently to minimize space requirements when stored.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The storage solution transitions from a two-dimensional footprint to a three-dimensional compact form. By collapsing the frame vertically and folding the steering assembly, the conveyance maintains its functional width for stability while reducing its overall volume for storage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If the portable conveyance is leaned against a wall for storage, then storage space is utilized, but the wall surface is soiled and damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage convenienceVSAvoidsurface damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The conveyance is designed with self-standing capability through its collapsible frame structure. When collapsed, the frame geometry allows it to stand upright independently on its own, eliminating the need to lean against external surfaces and thus preventing wall damage while maintaining easy storage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Area of stationary object

If the portable conveyance is designed for compact storage, then storage footprint is reduced, but cargo transport capability is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage footprintVSAvoidcargo transport capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The rack assembly is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to be adjusted between a compact stored position that minimizes footprint and an extended operational position that provides cargo transport capability. The rack can be folded parallel to the deck when not in use and extended when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Area of stationary object

If the portable conveyance uses a single rear wheel for towing, then storage space is reduced, but the user must balance the conveyance while towing causing fatigue

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage spaceVSAvoidtowing ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The conveyance uses two rear drive wheels that act as counterbalancing elements during towing. This dual-wheel configuration provides inherent stability and counteracts the balancing effort required by single-wheel designs, reducing user fatigue while maintaining compact storage capabilities through the collapsible frame.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

Data Source

PatentUS12157536B2Portable conveyance with dual function rack and stand

Publication Date: 2024.12.03 PROBITY IP LLC

AI summary

This specification relates to portable conveyances, and in particular to a dual-function apparatus that functions as a rack in a first attachment position on the portable conveyance when the portable conveyance is in an unfolded position, and that functions as a stand in a second attachment position on the portable conveyance when the portable conveyance is in a folded position.