Modular Vehicle Cover Sections for Adaptable Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing vehicle cover solutions require multiple designs to fit different vehicle configurations, leading to increased manufacturing and storage costs due to the need for separate covers for vehicles with similar designs but distinct features, such as seating configurations or modular components.
Innovation Solution
A family of vehicle cover sections made of flexible material that can be combined using non-permanent connections like zippers, snaps, or Velcro to form covers that fit various recreational vehicle configurations, reducing the need for multiple specific designs and allowing for adaptable coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate covers are manufactured for different vehicle configurations, then each cover can fit its specific vehicle design, but manufacturing costs and storage costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is divided into multiple modular sections that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. Each section corresponds to a specific vehicle component (front section for handlebars, middle section for seat, rear section for cargo rack). This segmentation allows a single set of sections to fit multiple vehicle configurations when assembled in different combinations, eliminating the need to manufacture entirely separate covers for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular cover sections are designed with universal attachment mechanisms (such as zippers, snaps, or Velcro) that allow the same sections to be assembled in different configurations. The front section can attach to different middle sections, and different rear sections can be attached, creating multiple cover variants from the same basic components. This multi-functionality enables one set of sections to serve multiple vehicle types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate covers are manufactured for different vehicle configurations, then each cover can fit its specific vehicle design, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the cover into modular sections, the storage space requirement is dramatically reduced. Instead of storing multiple complete covers for different configurations, only the individual sections need to be stored. These sections can be compactly folded and stored in a small bag or container, and then assembled at the point of use to match the specific vehicle configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular sections can be nested or folded within each other when not in use. The smaller sections can be placed inside larger sections, creating a compact storage package. This nesting capability allows the entire set of cover sections to fit into a small storage bag that can be easily carried or stored in a vehicle compartment.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional single-piece covers are used, then manufacturing and storage are simpler, but the covers cannot adapt to vehicles with different configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is divided into multiple modular sections that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. Each section corresponds to a specific vehicle component (front section for handlebars, middle section for seat, rear section for cargo rack). This segmentation allows a single set of sections to fit multiple vehicle configurations when assembled in different combinations, eliminating the need to manufacture entirely separate covers for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover transitions from a static, fixed-design single-piece structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable modular system. The sections can be assembled and disassembled to adapt to different vehicle configurations, providing flexibility and adaptability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized section designs.
Data Source
AI summary
A family of vehicle cover sections is disclosed, including at least one first cover section comprising a flexible material at least two second cover sections comprising a flexible material. One of the at least two second cover sections is non-permanently connectable to the at least one first cover section to form therewith a first vehicle cover configured to generally fit the contour of at least an upper portion of a first vehicle having a first configuration. Another of the at least two second cover sections is non-permanently connectable to the at least one first cover section to form therewith a second vehicle cover configured to generally fit the contour of at least the upper portion of a second vehicle having a second configuration, the second vehicle cover being removably attachable to the second vehicle. A method of forming a vehicle cover and a cover formed by the method are also disclosed.