Modular Cargo Carrier Base With Reconfigurable Rails and Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cargo carriers are cumbersome, heavy, expensive, and lack versatility, requiring consumers to modify existing designs for different applications, which can compromise stability and safety, and necessitate additional single-use carriers.
Innovation Solution
A modular cargo carrier system with a standardized base and interchangeable components, including a frame with receptacles and removable rails, allowing for customizable configurations and secure attachment of various accessories and cargo using a latching system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cargo carriers are used, then cargo can be transported, but they are cumbersome, heavy, and lack versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo carrier system is divided into a base unit and multiple interchangeable accessory attachments. The base provides structural support while accessories can be swapped based on cargo needs, reducing overall weight compared to a single heavy-purpose-built carrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized base with uniform receptacles can accommodate multiple types of accessories for different applications (luggage, sports equipment, cargo bags, etc.). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple single-use carriers, reducing total weight while increasing versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cargo carriers are used, then cargo can be transported, but they are expensive and require additional single-use carriers for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
A single standardized base can interface with multiple accessory types through uniform receptacles, allowing one carrier to serve multiple purposes (hiking, camping, sports, general cargo). This eliminates the need to purchase and transport multiple specialized carriers.
Solution Approach 2:
Accessories can be detached and stored when not needed, or swapped for different applications. The base carrier is retained and reused across multiple trips and applications, reducing the need to acquire additional carriers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing designs are modified for different applications, then versatility is achieved, but stability and safety are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the stable structural base from the interchangeable accessories. The base maintains consistent structural integrity while accessories are designed to interface through standardized receptacles that ensure proper alignment and secure attachment, preserving stability during customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier system allows dynamic reconfiguration of accessories based on needs, but each attachment point is designed with specific receptacles and coupling mechanisms that ensure stable, safe connections. The latching system provides secure fastening that maintains reliability during dynamic adjustments.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a modular system with interchangeable components is used, then versatility and lightweight design are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized receptacle design creates a universal interface that simplifies the system. Despite having multiple accessories, the consistent attachment mechanism across all components reduces the complexity burden, making the modular system easier to manage than multiple specialized carriers.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a cargo carrier system that is modular and can be arranged for a variety of applications, accessories, and cargo. The cargo carrier system has a modular base with a frame and a plurality of receptacles located within the frame configured to receive attachments. The base may have a rectangular frame coupled to a substantially flat top surface. Different components may be coupled to the frame by using standardized coupling attachments, thereby forming a highly customizable and modular system. Removable rails and clamping devices may be coupled to the base in a specific configuration and may be arranged based on the cargo being carried. A latching system couples the rails and other accessories to the base, as well as the cargo within the modular carrier system.