Overhead Cargo Rack Structure for UTV Storage Without Balance Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles, particularly ATVs and UTVs, face limited storage capacity for transporting goods, especially in environments requiring navigation through challenging terrain, and aftermarket solutions fail to provide substantial storage without disrupting the vehicle's balance or extending its footprint.
Innovation Solution
A rack system for vehicles with a base affixed between the rear and front portions, featuring telescopic vertical supports and adjustable surfaces, allowing for two-tier storage and accommodating a collapsible stand for observation or hunting, with attachment options to various vehicle components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If cargo boxes, saddle bags, bumper baskets and racks are added to extend storage space, then storage capacity is improved, but the vehicle's balance and maneuverability are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system transitions from horizontal extension (side-mounted cargo boxes and bumper baskets) to vertical utilization by mounting the rack on the vehicle's roll bar, transforming the storage dimension from lateral to overhead space, thereby preserving vehicle balance while increasing capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The rack is divided into modular components including a base portion, vertical supports, and adjustable shelving that can be independently configured, allowing flexible arrangement that maintains vehicle stability while maximizing storage efficiency
2Quantity of substance
If trailers are attached to extend storage, then cargo capacity is improved, but navigation capability and vehicular footprint are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of extending storage horizontally through trailers that increase vehicle length and reduce maneuverability, the invention utilizes vertical overhead space mounted on the roll bar, keeping the vehicle's footprint compact while significantly expanding cargo capacity
3Ease of manufacture
If manufacturer storage solutions are used, then installation ease is improved, but storage versatility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rack incorporates adjustable vertical supports with telescopic sections and movable shelving that can be repositioned along the base portion, enabling dynamic reconfiguration to accommodate different cargo sizes and vehicle models, thereby achieving both ease of installation and high versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The rack design integrates multiple functions including cargo storage, equipment mounting, and potential stand accommodation within a single system that can be adapted to various vehicle types, eliminating the need for vehicle-specific custom installations
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises a rack for a utility vehicle having a cab, the rack being affixed to a vehicle and comprising a rack base being affixed in a parallel relationship to a bed of the vehicle, the rack base extending between a rear portion and a front portion of the rack and having a perimeter about the rack base, the rear portion of the rack positioned towards the rear end of the vehicle and front portion of the rack positioned towards and over the cab of the vehicle; a longitudinal element bisecting the rack base, the longitudinal element extending between the rear portion of the rack and the front portion of the rack; and a first unifying element at the rack base having a-union configured at the front portion of the rack, the first unifying element positioned towards the front portion of the rack, whereby the longitudinal element bisects the first unifying element at the union, whereas the first unifying element is disposed within the perimeter of the rack base.