Multipurpose Rack for RVs Using Adjustable Enclosure
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an apparatus and method to securely and efficiently rack watercraft, such as kayaks, along with bicycles, mopeds, or motorcycles, on larger vehicles like Recreational Vehicles (RVs), addressing the challenges of space constraints and secure affixing on vehicles with larger dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A watercraft rack system with a first end configured to engage a trailer hitch receiver, a second end for removably enclosing another portion of the watercraft, and a connecting member to secure the watercraft, along with a lower support unit and upper support frame to form an enclosure, allowing for adjustable sizing to accommodate various watercraft and transportation devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If watercraft and transportation devices are transported on larger vehicles like RVs, then travel capability is improved, but space constraints and secure affixing difficulties worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system utilizes vertical space by extending upward from the vehicle rear, creating a three-dimensional enclosure that accommodates watercraft and transportation devices in the vertical dimension rather than consuming horizontal vehicle space. The adjustable side members and top member form a vertical cage structure that leverages the Z-axis to solve the space constraint problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack is divided into modular components including adjustable side members, top member, bottom member, and cross members that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different watercraft and transportation device sizes while maintaining a compact footprint on the vehicle.
2Reliability
If watercraft and transportation devices are securely affixed to larger vehicles, then transport stability is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system is designed to universally accommodate multiple types of loads including watercraft, bicycles, mopeds, and motorcycles through its adjustable enclosure structure. The same basic framework can be configured for different device types, reducing the need for multiple specialized mounting systems and simplifying the overall solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The side members and top member are made adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the enclosure dimensions to be dynamically changed to fit different watercraft and transportation device sizes. This adjustability provides secure affixing for various loads without requiring complex custom-built solutions for each device type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable sizing is implemented to accommodate various watercraft and transportation devices, then versatility is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable components are broken down into discrete segments including side members with multiple positioning options, adjustable top members, and configurable cross members. This segmentation allows for versatility in accommodating different device sizes while keeping each individual component relatively simple in design.
Data Source
AI summary
A multipurpose rack comprising a first racking assembly including a first securing portion configured to secure a first portion of a first transportation device, and a second securing portion operably connected to the first securing portion configured to releasably secure a second portion of the first transportation device, a second racking assembly including a first end portion having a clamping assembly, wherein the first end portion includes a lower support frame, a second end portion operably connected to the first end portion and spaced apart from the first end portion, the second end portion removably enclosing another portion of the second transportation is provided. An associated method is also provided.