Movable Trunk Platform for Ergonomic Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle trunk systems lack ease of use for loading and unloading packages/items, as they do not provide a convenient mechanism for raising or lowering the platform to facilitate better access.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically operated platform that can be raised upward and outward, or lowered downward and forward within the vehicle's trunk, utilizing pivot lift support struts and mechanisms such as cabling or gearing to assist in loading and unloading items, or can be manually operated using a handle for simpler access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed platform is used in the vehicle trunk, then the structure is simple and stable, but it is difficult to load and unload packages/items due to poor accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed platform into a movable one that can pivot between a loaded position (flush with trunk floor) and an unloading position (raised and extended rearward). This dynamic movement allows the platform to adapt its position for easy loading and unloading of packages, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and structural simplicity by introducing controlled motion through pivot lift support struts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the platform system into distinct functional components: the movable upper platform, the pivot lift support struts, and the lower rigid base. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as a cohesive system, enabling the platform to move and extend without requiring a completely complex restructured design.
2Ease of operation
If a movable platform mechanism is added to facilitate loading and unloading, then accessibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the movable upper platform to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the loading surface and the unloading platform, and it can transition between different positions (flush and extended). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for loading and unloading, thereby improving accessibility while limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot lift support struts are designed to automatically support and position the movable upper platform as it transitions between positions. The struts provide self-service by mechanically supporting the platform's weight and maintaining proper positioning during movement, reducing the need for additional active control mechanisms and thereby limiting complexity increase while improving accessibility.
3Ease of operation
If the platform is raised upward and outward for unloading, then item removal is easier, but the trunk space available for loading is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by extending the platform not only upward but also rearward (in the longitudinal dimension of the vehicle). This allows the unloading surface to be positioned outside the main trunk storage area, thereby facilitating easy package removal without permanently reducing the trunk's internal storage volume. The platform effectively utilizes the vehicle's external space for unloading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform dynamically adjusts its position and orientation based on the operational need. When loading, it remains flush with the trunk floor to maximize storage area. When unloading, it pivots upward and extends rearward to provide easy access. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to optimize both trunk storage area and ease of package removal at different operational stages.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to assist people and minimize back strain/sprain when people are placing items into the vehicle's trunk and when people are removing items from the vehicle's trunk. The apparatus is installed in the vehicle's trunk so that the apparatus when activated, can both lift items above the location where the lowest portion of the vehicle's trunk lid rests when the vehicle's trunk lid is closed and also rearward of the location/position where the lowest portion of the vehicle's trunk lid rests when the vehicle's trunk lid is closed. The result is an easier and more convenient location/position to remove packages/items from the vehicle's trunk or to load packages/items into the vehicle's trunk to help prevent back injuries caused by bending forward to pick up packages/items from the vehicle's trunk or to place packages/items into the vehicle's trunk.