Sliding Platform With Jackscrew Stabilization For Truck Cargo

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sliding platforms for pick-up truck cargo bays are cumbersome to install and require disassembly or the use of special brackets and bolts, making it difficult to access and secure the mounting points, especially when frequent installation and removal are needed.

Innovation Solution

The sliding platform uses jackscrews and L-shaped bolts that allow for easy installation without disassembling the apparatus, utilizing low friction bearings and a latching mechanism that stabilizes the frame with minimal access requirements, enabling the platform to be secured with only two holes drilled in the cargo bay's front wall.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If standard bolts and nuts are used to hold the sliding apparatus in place, then the platform can be securely fastened, but the installation and removal process becomes extremely difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure fasteningVSAvoidinstallation and removal process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system is divided into two independent parts: a mounting bracket that remains permanently attached to the cargo bay, and a sliding platform that can be easily installed and removed. The bracket contains pre-drilled holes and mounting holes, allowing it to be permanently secured with bolts while the platform itself remains detachable through a simple latch mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting bracket is pre-installed and permanently attached to the cargo bay before the sliding platform is needed. This preliminary action includes drilling holes in the cargo bay and securing the bracket with bolts, so that when the platform needs to be installed, the fastening points are already prepared and accessible.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If mounting bolts protrude through the front and bottom of the cargo box, then the sliding platform can be fastened securely, but access to the mounting points becomes difficult and requires special positioning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure fasteningVSAvoidaccess to mounting points

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system is divided into two independent parts: a mounting bracket that remains permanently attached to the cargo bay, and a sliding platform that can be easily installed and removed. The bracket contains pre-drilled holes and mounting holes, allowing it to be permanently secured with bolts while the platform itself remains detachable through a simple latch mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting bracket is pre-installed and permanently attached to the cargo bay before the sliding platform is needed. This preliminary action includes drilling holes in the cargo bay and securing the bracket with bolts, so that when the platform needs to be installed, the fastening points are already prepared and accessible.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of time

If the sliding platform is designed to be easily installed and removed, then the installation time is reduced, but the platform may become less stable or secure when in use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation timeVSAvoidplatform stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system is divided into two independent parts: a mounting bracket that remains permanently attached to the cargo bay, and a sliding platform that can be easily installed and removed. The bracket contains pre-drilled holes and mounting holes, allowing it to be permanently secured with bolts while the platform itself remains detachable through a simple latch mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the mounting bracket when the platform is pushed into place, and can be easily released by pulling the latch. This self-service mechanism ensures secure fastening without requiring manual intervention or complex tools, maintaining both ease of operation and platform stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

This solution simplifies the installation process by allowing for quick stabilization and secure fastening of the platform with reduced access needs, eliminating the need for partial disassembly and second-person assistance, thus reducing installation time and cost.

Implementation Method 1

low friction bearings mounted at the rear of the stationary frame for carrying the sliding frame

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS7445263B1Sliding platform for a pick-up truck

Publication Date: 2008.11.04 CARGO EASE

AI summary

A sliding platform is mounted on low friction rollers to cooperate with a stationary frame to produce an extending platform for the cargo area of a suitable vehicle. The stationary frame may be fastened in the cargo area of a motor vehicle by means of specially shaped bolts which attach the stationary frame to the front wall of the cargo area. The forward end of the stationary frame is therefore held in place by means of only two fastening bolts. The rearward portion of the stationary frame is located and held in place by two jackscrews which serve to engage the two opposing walls of the cargo bay.A spring loaded handle is used to unlatch the sliding platform and allow it to be slid on said stationary frame to an extended position. The spring loaded handle may be pulled out from its nested position to provide better access and gripping of the handle.