Foldable Cargo Support Panels for Mixed-Use Vehicle Cargo Space
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current cargo liners in vehicles with captain seats and third row seating configurations fail to efficiently utilize mixed-use cargo space and protect the vehicle's interior, as they do not adapt to seating alterations.
Innovation Solution
A configurable cargo support structure with foldable, rigid or semi-rigid panels that can be adjusted to match vehicle seat configurations, providing a continuous platform for cargo support and protection, even when seats are folded or removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If captain seats and third row seating configurations are used, then seating capacity is improved, but usable cargo space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo support structure uses foldable panels with foldable joints that allow the structure to dynamically change its configuration. The panels can be folded to accommodate captain seats and third row seating, or unfolded to maximize cargo space, enabling the structure to adapt to different seating arrangements and optimize both seating capacity and cargo space utilization.
2Quantity of substance
If captain seats and third row seating configurations are used, then seating capacity is improved, but ability to protect vehicle interior with cargo liners is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo support structure is designed with foldable panels that can be adjusted to match different seating configurations. When captain seats or third row seating is deployed, the structure folds to provide appropriate coverage and protection to the vehicle interior, maintaining reliable interior protection across various seating arrangements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If foldable support panels are used to adapt to seating configurations, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo support structure is divided into multiple foldable panels connected by foldable joints, allowing each panel to be independently positioned. This segmentation enables the structure to adapt to different seating configurations while keeping each individual panel relatively simple in design, balancing adaptability with structural simplicity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If foldable joints are used to connect panels, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The structure uses multiple foldable joints connecting individual panels, with each joint designed to provide defined folding positions. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high adaptability through combinations of discrete panel positions, while each individual joint can be manufactured with standard precision tolerances.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable cargo support structure. The configurable cargo support structure may include foldable support panels, wherein adjacent foldable support panels may be connected via a foldable joint extending along at least a portion of a length of adjacent foldable support panels, and wherein the foldable support panels may be made of at least one of a rigid or semi-rigid material.