Vehicle Loadspace Cover with Integrated Cargo Fixing Point
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing loadspace covers in vehicles restrict usable space when the rear seat is folded forward, and there is a need to secure cargo during transit to prevent movement, which is challenging due to the lack of suitable storage and securing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A retractable loadspace cover with vehicle fixing points for secure attachment to the vehicle and a cargo fixing point to secure items to the cover, allowing the cover to be removed and stored without occupying space, and preventing movement during transit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the loadspace cover is stored in the loadspace, then the cover is available for use, but the usable space in the loadspace decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The loadspace cover is extracted from the loadspace storage location and integrated directly into the seat structure. The cover is now taken out of the conflicting space (loadspace) and incorporated into the seat, eliminating the space conflict while maintaining availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The loadspace cover is merged with the seat structure by providing it as part of the seat assembly. The cover and seat are combined into a single integrated unit, allowing the cover to be stored without occupying loadspace while remaining readily available for use.
2Volume of moving object
If the loadspace cover is removed from the vehicle, then the usable space in the loadspace is maximized, but the cover may be lost or not available when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The loadspace cover is permanently merged with the seat structure, ensuring it remains with the vehicle and cannot be lost. The cover is integrated into the seat assembly, so it is always available when needed while not occupying loadspace when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is extracted from the removable/storable configuration and permanently integrated into the seat. This extraction from the removable state eliminates the risk of loss while maintaining space efficiency.
3Volume of moving object
If the rear seat is folded forward to increase loadspace, then the loadspace volume increases, but the loadspace cover cannot be properly stored
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is merged with the seat structure, so when the seat is folded forward, the cover folds with it automatically. This integration eliminates the separate storage operation that would otherwise be needed, making the system self-storing.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is made dynamic by integrating it with the movable seat structure. As the seat folds forward, the cover dynamically follows the seat's movement, automatically adjusting its position without requiring separate storage actions.
4Productivity
If cargo is not secured in the loadspace, then loading and unloading is faster, but cargo may shift during transit causing safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo securing function is made self-service by integrating the securing mechanism into the loadspace cover itself. The cover automatically provides securing points and restraint capabilities when deployed, eliminating the need for separate manual securing operations while maintaining safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle loadspace cover is provided that is securable to a portion of a vehicle. The loadspace cover comprises a cargo fixing point configured to secure an item of cargo to the loadspace cover.