Inflatable Tonneau Cover Bladder for Automatic Cargo Restraint
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing cargo in vehicles are cumbersome and require manual manipulation, failing to effectively prevent cargo movement during travel, which can lead to damage.
Innovation Solution
An inflatable bladder coupled to a vehicle cover, such as a tonneau cover, is expanded using a supply device to securely engage with cargo based on dimensions and weight, with pressure control via sensors and solenoid valves to maintain contact without puncturing or deforming the cargo.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing mechanisms such as straps, pockets, nets, and compartments are installed in cargo spaces, then cargo can be secured to prevent movement, but the device complexity increases and manual manipulation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an inflatable bladder connected to a compressor system. The compressor inflates the bladder with air to expand it against the cargo, securing it in place. This pneumatic system replaces complex mechanical installation of straps and nets, automatically adapting to different cargo sizes and shapes while maintaining securement reliability.
2Reliability
If manual equipment manipulation is used to secure cargo, then cargo can be restrained, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system activates automatically when cargo is placed in the cargo space. Sensors detect the presence and dimensions of the cargo, and the compressor automatically inflates the bladder to the appropriate pressure to secure the cargo. This eliminates the need for manual manipulation of straps or other restraint equipment, while maintaining reliable cargo restraint.
3Reliability
If the bladder expands uniformly above the cargo space, then the cargo can be secured, but the adaptability to different cargo dimensions and weights decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The bladder is designed with flexible material and internal segmentation that allows it to dynamically adapt its shape as it inflates. The bladder expands to conform to the specific dimensions and contours of the cargo rather than maintaining a uniform shape, enabling reliable contact and secement for various cargo types while maintaining adaptability.
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
The system efficiently secures cargo by conforming to its shape and size, reducing movement and potential damage during travel, eliminating the need for manual equipment installation and manipulation.
Implementation Method 1
A supply device, such as a compressor, fill valve, or pump is coupled with the bladder to expand the bladder into contact with the cargo within the cargo area by filling the bladder with water, pre-bottled condensed air, or compressed air
Implementation Method 2
The supply device includes a pressure sensor that senses the pressure within the bladder
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses described herein relate to improving the prevention of cargo movement during vehicle travel. In one embodiment, an apparatus for securing cargo within a vehicle includes a bladder coupled to an underside of a cover that extends over a cargo area, where the bladder faces the cargo area. The apparatus includes a supply device coupled with the bladder via a connecting member to expand the bladder into contact with the cargo within the cargo area.