Retractable Cargo Box Linear Wheel Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable cargo box solutions for pickup trucks lack efficient mechanisms for smooth movement between retracted and extended positions, often experiencing difficulties with secure positioning and smooth operation, especially when the tailgate is closed or when the cargo box is extended beyond the cargo bed.
Innovation Solution
A retractable cargo box assembly featuring a linear wheel assembly with multiple rollers aligned along a longitudinal axis, supported by a guide system with adjustable components for secure attachment to the cargo bed, including retraction and extension stop components to prevent over-movement, allowing for smooth transition between retracted and extended positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a retractable cargo box is placed in a cargo bed, then cargo organization and storage are improved, but the cargo box may unintentionally move or shift during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing stop components that are pre-positioned to engage with the cargo box at predetermined locations. These stops are installed beforehand on the cargo bed and automatically engage with the cargo box during movement, preventing unintended shifting without requiring active intervention or complex control systems.
2Productivity
If the cargo box is made extendable beyond the cargo bed, then loading and unloading efficiency is improved, but secure positioning becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses stop components as intermediary elements that mediate between the cargo box and the cargo bed. These stops act as intermediate positioning points that allow the cargo box to extend beyond the cargo bed for efficient loading while providing automatic engagement points that simplify positioning and securing operations.
3Reliability
If the tailgate is closed to secure cargo, then cargo security is improved, but the cargo box cannot be extended beyond the cargo bed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning stop components on the cargo bed that allow the cargo box to extend beyond the cargo bed even when the tailgate is closed. These stops are installed in advance and create predetermined extension points that are independent of tailgate position, enabling versatile operation in both closed and open tailgate configurations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure, smooth, and efficient movement of the cargo box between retracted and extended positions, ensuring secure storage and easy loading/unloading while preventing unintentional movement, even when the tailgate is closed or the box is extended beyond the cargo bed.
Implementation Method 1
The rollers are configured to rotatably support the cargo box on the cargo bed of the vehicle between a retracted position and an extended position
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a retractable cargo box assembly for a cargo bed of a vehicle. The retractable cargo box assembly includes a cargo box. The cargo box includes a base extending laterally between a first side and a second side, and extending longitudinally between a front end and a rear end. A linear wheel assembly is mounted to the base. The linear wheel assembly includes a plurality of rollers aligned in a linear arrangement between the front end and the rear end of the base. The rollers are configured to rotatably support the cargo box on the cargo bed of the vehicle between a retracted position and an extended position.