Pickup Bed Support Bar Layout for Long Loads and Tailgate Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pickup truck load support systems face challenges such as impracticality for long loads, interference with tailgates and tonneau covers, and aesthetic concerns, while being costly and structurally unsound.
Innovation Solution
A support bar assembly positioned behind the rear stake holes, elevated above the tailgate, which allows loading long loads without damaging the tailgate and enabling tonneau cover operation, featuring side plates and stems with screw threads for security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a horizontal bar is positioned near the front of the pickup truck bed in combination with the top of the tailgate, then long loads can be supported, but the tailgate structure may be damaged due to excessive vertical loads
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the load support function from the tailgate structure by positioning the horizontal bar behind the rear stake holes, separating the loading function from the tailgate and preventing excessive vertical loads from being applied to it
Solution Approach 2:
The horizontal bar positioned behind the stake holes acts as an intermediary structure that bears the vertical loads for long loads, transferring them to the truck bed frame through the stake holes rather than directly to the tailgate
2Adaptability or versatility
If load support structures are positioned to accommodate long loads, then loading capability is improved, but interference with tonneau cover placement and operation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by positioning the horizontal bar at a specific location behind the rear stake holes, creating a localized support structure that accommodates long loads without extending into the tonneau cover placement area
Solution Approach 2:
The invention resolves the spatial conflict by utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the truck bed, positioning the support bar behind the stake holes rather than above them, allowing vertical clearance for tonneau covers while providing horizontal support for long loads
3Ease of manufacture
If horizontal bars are positioned in a single horizontal plane at standard heights, then installation is simplified, but loading long ladders or pipes becomes difficult due to elevation constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies dynamics by allowing the horizontal bar to be positioned at an optimized elevation behind the stake holes, enabling adjustment of the loading plane to accommodate long loads while maintaining simple installation through standardized stake hole engagement
4Adaptability or versatility
If load support apparatus is designed to be functional, then loading capability is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the functional elements (stems engaging stake holes) from the visible rear area, positioning them behind the stake holes where they are hidden from view, while the horizontal bar is positioned to provide clean lines and proper clearance for tailgate operation
Data Source
AI summary
The apparatus includes support member supported on mounting stems that engage stake holes in the truck bed side walls of a pickup truck. Typically, two stake holes are provided on each truck bed side wall near the tailgate and two additional stake holes 16 are provided in the truck bed sidewalls near the cab.