Flexible Cargo Mat with Retention Members for Vehicle Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automobile vehicle frunk and trunk systems require separate and cumbersome components for protection and storage, which can be lost or misplaced and are not multi-functional.
Innovation Solution
A flexible cargo mat system with multiple retention members and attachment members that can be configured into various positions to cover the storage area, protect the fascia, and retain cargo, replacing multiple separate components with a single, multi-use solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate cover, hold-down device and protective cargo mat are provided, then each component can perform its specific function, but the system complexity increases and components can be lost or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate protective components (cover, hold-down device, protective cargo mat) into a single integrated cargo management system. The cargo management cover includes integrated retention members that can engage with attachment members on the vehicle, and a protective cargo mat that can be secured within the cargo area. This integration eliminates the need for multiple separate components that could be lost or misplaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The cargo management cover serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a protective cover for the cargo area, provides cargo retention through integrated retention members, and secures the protective cargo mat in place. This multi-functionality replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If separate hold-down device and protective cargo mat are used, then cargo retention and floor protection are achieved, but installation becomes cumbersome and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The retention members are integrated directly into the cargo management cover structure, eliminating the need for separate hold-down devices. The retention members include engagement features that can connect to attachment members on the vehicle, providing secure cargo retention as part of the single cover assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention members are designed with movable engagement features that can be easily positioned and secured to attachment members. The cargo mat can be flexibly positioned and secured at different locations within the cargo area, allowing for dynamic adjustment during installation to accommodate different cargo configurations.
3Reliability
If single-use protective components are provided for frunk or trunk, then protection is provided for that specific area, but the components cannot be used in both frunk and trunk spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo management cover and protective cargo mat are designed as universal components that can be installed in either the front cargo area (frunk) or the rear cargo area (trunk). The retention members and attachment members are configured to work with standard vehicle attachment points, allowing the same component to provide reliable protection in different cargo areas of the vehicle.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle cargo mat system includes a cargo mat configured to fit within an automobile vehicle storage area. Multiple retention members are connected to the cargo mat and are adapted to individually releasably connect to one of multiple attachment members fixed to the automobile vehicle within the storage area. The cargo mat is further configured to extend into at least four optional positions including: a first position extending across a width of the storage area at an outward facing end of the storage area; a second position having the cargo mat laid flat to substantially cover a lower floor of the storage area; a third position having the cargo mat extended over the storage area to cover objects temporarily stored within the storage area; and a fourth position having the cargo mat extended outward from the storage area to at least partially cover a fascia of the automobile vehicle.