Modular Cargo Divider Assembly for Universal Vehicle Fit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cargo organization systems for vehicles are not customizable and are often specific to particular vehicle models, limiting their adaptability to different types of vehicles and items.

Innovation Solution

A universal organization system comprising modular straight and corner divider segments with protrusions, channels, and connectors that allow for customizable configurations, enabling users to create various shapes and sizes to fit different vehicles and items.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If complete or semi-complete configuration devices with specific shape and size are used, then the device provides structured organization, but the device cannot be customized to accommodate different articles or vehicle types

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecustomizabilityVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The organization system is divided into multiple modular segments that can be independently configured. Each segment can be assembled in different arrangements to create customized organization solutions for various cargo areas and item types, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by allowing simple individual components to form complex customized configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of segments without permanent fixation. Users can easily assemble, disassemble, and rearrange segments to adapt to different vehicles and items, providing both structured organization when needed and flexibility when requirements change, thus balancing adaptability with manageable complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If devices are manufactured for specific vehicle models, then the device fits that vehicle perfectly, but the device cannot be used with virtually any type of vehicle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle compatibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing variety
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The organization system is designed as a universal platform that can be adapted to multiple vehicle types through modular segmentation. Rather than manufacturing different devices for each vehicle model, the same basic segments can be configured to fit various cargo areas, significantly reducing manufacturing variety while maintaining broad vehicle compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If modular segments with interlocking mechanisms are used, then the segments can be quickly and easily customized, but the segments may separate during use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The interlocking mechanism uses nested protrusions and recesses where one segment fits into another like nested dolls. This design provides both easy assembly through simple insertion motions and reliable connection through the nested structure that resists separation forces during vehicle operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 quick and easy customization of cargo area organization, accommodating diverse items and vehicle types, with secure interlocking mechanisms to prevent separation.

Implementation Method 1

Connectors such as magnets and metallic strips can be located within and along the bars and channels to prevent inadvertent separation of the system components.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11866009B2Universal organization system for vehicular cargo areas
Publication Date: 2024.01.09 FANNIN CHRISTOPHER
  • US11866009B2 patent drawing
  • US11866009B2 patent drawing
  • US11866009B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An organizational system includes a plurality of straight divider segments having a plurality of upper protrusions and lower openings. Divider segments are aligned serially and are connected by lowering another divider segment onto the adjacent segments to form an elongated wall. A central channel on the top surface of each divider segment receives a bar on the bottom end of another divider segment when connected. The system also includes plurality of corner segments each having a top surface with an extended portion having a plurality of upper protrusions and lower openings. The corner segment is positioned orthogonally against one of the straight divider segments and the protrusions on the straight divider segment engage the openings on the extended section of the corner segment. An elongated bar on the bottom portion of the extended section is positioned within a cross channel on the straight divider segment in the connected orientation.