Inflatable vehicle accessories
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle accessories, such as cargo carriers and truck shells, face issues with storage and mounting due to their rigid construction, which occupies space and poses risks during attachment to vehicles without roof racks.
Innovation Solution
The use of drop-stitch inflatable materials that form rigid structures when inflated, allowing for deflation, rolling, and compact storage, and can be easily attached to vehicles using straps and magnetic flaps, providing a waterproof and aerodynamic solution for cargo carriers and truck bed inserts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid plastic, fiberglass or metal walls are used for vehicle attachments, then structural strength and rigidity are improved, but storage space requirements and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning the vehicle attachment structure from a permanently rigid state to a dynamically adjustable state. The inflatable walls allow the structure to change its physical parameters (rigidity, volume, shape) based on operational needs - inflated for structural strength during use, deflated for compact storage. This resolves the contradiction by making rigidity temporary rather than permanent.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses pneumatic principles by incorporating inflatable walls that can be filled with air or other gases to create structural support. The inflatable structure provides rigidity and strength when needed, while allowing compact storage when deflated. This pneumatic approach eliminates the need for heavy rigid materials while maintaining structural integrity during operation.
2Quantity of substance
If rigid cargo carriers are mounted on vehicles without roof racks using ropes through windows, then cargo carrying capability is improved, but safety and security worsen due to easy load shifting and potential detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using inflatable walls that can be inflated to create a rigid, secure mounting structure directly on the vehicle body. The inflatable structure adapts to the vehicle contours and provides stable attachment without requiring traditional roof racks or window-mounted ropes. This dynamic rigidity ensures cargo security while maintaining reliability during transport.
3Volume of moving object
If pickup truck beds are used for sleeping, then space utilization is improved, but comfort and item storage worsen due to hard surfaces and narrow space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible inflatable walls to create a comfortable sleeping surface within the pickup truck bed. The inflatable structure provides a soft, cushioned surface that conforms to the desired shape, replacing the hard truck bed surface. This flexible shell approach maintains space utilization while dramatically improving sleeping comfort and creating additional storage space underneath or around the inflatable structure.
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 easy storage, shipping, and mounting of vehicle accessories that are rigid enough to support cargo and persons, while being compact and space-efficient when not in use, addressing storage and safety concerns.
Implementation Method 1
Drop-stitch material allows applicant's devices to inflate at high pressure and hold their forms. This can form rigid structures.
Implementation Method 2
The structure is attached to a pickup truck bed with interior straps and magnetic flaps on the exterior of the structure.
Implementation Method 3
The structure also is waterproof. This can create a weatherproof seal between the structure and the body of the truck.
Data Source
AI summary
Elements of drop-stitch material are formed into different structures. In a platform, two legs support a horizontal platform. All are of drop-stitch material, which can be inflated to sufficient pressure for it to be rigid. Valves between the legs and platform allow air to flow between the legs and the platform. Another design is a luggage or cargo carrier for vehicles with a base, top and front walls formed of interconnected drop-stitch material. When the drop-stitch material is inflated, the material forms a cavity which receives luggage or other items. Sidewalls create an enclosed space. elements of the drop-stitch material can form other structures such as a truck shell with openings through the material to acts as windows or a door.