Modular Pickup Truck Platform With Telescoping Support Legs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevated platforms for cargo vehicles are large and difficult to transport, prone to sagging under load, and lack safety features, making them unsuitable for comfortable and safe use, especially for families.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible platform design with interlocking sections, telescoping legs, stakes for stability, and safety features like guardrails and steps, which can be easily assembled and disassembled for transportation and storage, providing a sturdy and safe seating area with shade from an awning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the platform is made large to accommodate multiple occupants, then the seating capacity and viewing area are improved, but the difficulty of transportation and storage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is divided into multiple modular sections that can be assembled together to create a large viewing area when needed, and disassembled into smaller manageable pieces for easy transportation and storage. Each section can be independently handled and reconfigured based on space requirements.
2Area of stationary object
If the platform size is increased to provide adequate seating area, then the seating capacity is improved, but the structural stability and resistance to sagging worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is divided into multiple smaller sections that are easier to support structurally. Each section can be independently braced and supported, preventing sagging while maintaining overall platform integrity when assembled together.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform utilizes the vertical dimension by incorporating adjustable legs that can be extended to provide additional support underneath the platform surface, distributing weight and preventing sagging in the horizontal plane.
3Ease of operation
If the platform is made collapsible for easy transportation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the structural strength and reliability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The platform incorporates collapsible legs and adjustable support structures that can be extended or retracted. When assembled, the legs provide rigid support to maintain platform strength, while when collapsed, the structure becomes compact for easy transportation without permanent damage.
4Reliability
If safety features like guardrails and steps are added, then the safety of occupants is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guardrails and steps are integrated into the existing modular platform structure, using the same materials and connection mechanisms as the main platform sections. This unified approach provides safety features without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An elevated platform assembly suitable for mounting over the cargo area of a vehicle such as a pickup truck is disclosed. The platform assembly is modular for easy storage and can be conveniently transported to a scene wherever an elevated vantage point is desired, such as for viewing of outdoor musical concert, watching a game, or just camping out and observing nature. Embodiments of the invention disclosed include a normal platform, a wide platform for larger cargo areas where the platform is assembled with floor sections clamped together and supported with floor-pillars for extra support, or a long platform assembled with extendable platform floor modules fastened along the vehicle's axial or the length dimension. Also disclosed are the embodiments that include an awning assembly for providing shade to the occupants of the platform, and detachable handrails for the safety of platform occupants. Plurality of steps are included to facilitate the process of mounting the elevated level of the platform, particularly when occupants desire to place seating apparatus such as chairs or tables on the platform to enjoy the functionality offered by the invention.