Vehicle Lift Gate Accessory Mounting Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for protecting individuals from elements during outdoor activities like tailgating, such as umbrellas and tents, are cumbersome, require multiple people to assemble, and limit hand use, while traditional umbrellas offer inadequate protection and mobility.
Innovation Solution
A support bracket system that utilizes the common latch mechanism of passenger vehicles' trunk lids or hatch lift gates to securely attach and adjust various accessories, including an umbrella canopy, allowing for customizable positioning and easy installation/removal without altering the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If stand-alone tent products are used to protect from elements, then protection coverage is improved, but device complexity and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed to attach to the universal latch mechanism found on most vehicle trunk lids and hatch lift gates, making it compatible across different vehicle makes and models. This universal attachment method eliminates the need for vehicle-specific modifications while providing consistent protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into separate functional components: the bracket that attaches to the vehicle, the pole that connects to the bracket, and the umbrella canopy that provides protection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easy assembly and disassembly.
2Ease of operation
If traditional umbrellas are used, then portability is improved, but protection effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions the umbrella from a hand-held position to an overhead position by attaching it to the vehicle's lift gate. This dimensional change allows the umbrella canopy to extend over the user's head, providing superior protection while freeing both hands for other activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket and pole act as intermediary structures between the vehicle and the umbrella canopy. These intermediaries transfer the umbrella from traditional hand-held use to a vehicle-mounted overhead position, enabling both portability and enhanced protection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are attached to the vehicle, then protection and functionality are improved, but vehicle integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket utilizes the vehicle's existing latch mechanism and D-ring component to attach to the trunk lid or hatch lift gate. By leveraging the vehicle's own structural elements, the bracket provides secure attachment without requiring modifications, drilling, or damage to the vehicle body.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is designed with universal compatibility across different vehicle makes and models by attaching to the standard latch mechanism and D-ring component. This universal design provides accessory functionality while maintaining compatibility with various vehicle configurations without compromising any specific vehicle's integrity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable positioning is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket includes pre-configured attachment points and adjustment mechanisms that are prepared in advance. The pole can be adjusted to different lengths and angles before final attachment, allowing users to optimize the umbrella position for their specific needs without requiring complex real-time adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is segmented into adjustable components: the bracket attachment points, the pole length, and the canopy orientation. Each segment can be independently adjusted to achieve the desired final position, simplifying the overall adjustment process while maintaining flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A support bracket attaches to a standard automobile trunk lid or hatch lift gate locking mechanism to hold a variety of accessory items including an umbrella above the head of a user. The bracket is adjusted and clamped in tightness to the lift gates locking mechanism whereas to secure it without movement to the trunk or hatch lid. It is released using the standard factory provided vehicle trunk or lift gate release mechanism. The device can be used independent of any hand support when the user is adjacent the open trunk or hatch of an automobile. Accessories are placed into a releasable engagement with the bracket sleeve, which may be separately adjusted relative to the main bracket assembly to position the accessory advantageously to the individual behind the vehicle. The umbrella accessory allows for an unobstructed shelter from precipitation and sun.