Fold-Down Cargo Containment Panels for Larger Item Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cargo containment systems in vehicles, such as cargo nets and fixed under-seat containers, hinder the loading and unloading of larger items due to their permanent nature and require cumbersome removal processes, restricting access and space for larger cargo.
Innovation Solution
A cargo containment system featuring a main panel and side panels that are rotatable between a stowed and use position, allowing for a flexible cargo storage area that can be easily converted between parallel and perpendicular orientations to accommodate different cargo sizes, with retention mechanisms using pins and grooves to maintain the use position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed under-seat storage containers are used, then cargo security and movement restriction are improved, but cargo loading and unloading accessibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is designed with a rotatable main panel that can pivot between a first position (parallel to seat bottom) and a second position (perpendicular to seat bottom). This dynamic configuration allows the container to transition between providing cargo security and enabling easy access for loading larger items, resolving the contradiction between stability and operational ease.
2Reliability
If permanent storage structures are installed, then cargo containment capability is improved, but cargo area accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable main panel mechanism enables the storage container to adapt its configuration based on operational needs. When the main panel rotates to the perpendicular position, the container provides robust cargo containment; when rotated to the parallel position, it maximizes cargo area accessibility. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between containment capability and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage container serves multiple functions through its rotatable design: it provides cargo security during transport, enables easy access for loading/unloading, and maximizes space utilization. The single structure performs both containment and accessibility functions by changing its orientation, making it a universal solution for varying operational requirements.
3Ease of operation
If removable storage containers are used, then cargo loading accessibility is improved, but device complexity and removal effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring complete removal of the storage container, the design uses a simple rotatable main panel that pivots between positions. This dynamic mechanism provides easy access for cargo loading without the complexity of removable containers, as the container remains installed but can be reconfigured to an open position that facilitates loading.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure cargo storage and easy access for larger items by allowing the system to be folded into a stowed position, enhancing cargo capacity and simplifying the loading and unloading process without the need for tool-assisted removal.
Implementation Method 1
a retainer attached to the floor and defining a channel rotatably receiving a pin of the at least one pin and including the other of the projection and the groove, the groove receiving the projection when the main panel is in the use position to maintain the main panel in the use position
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo containment system for a vehicle includes a main panel attached to a floor of the vehicle and rotatable relative to the floor between a stowed position substantially parallel to the floor and a use position substantially perpendicular to the floor and a first side panel rotatably attached to the main panel and movable with the main panel between the stowed position and the use position, the first side panel cooperating with the main panel to define a cargo storage area in the use position.