Truck Bed Soft Top Support Assembly With Compact Folding Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing soft top support assemblies for truck beds occupy a large amount of space when folded, which is inefficient for storage and can cause interference with the cab.
Innovation Solution
A support mechanism and assembly featuring rotatable and foldable main support frames with adjustable positioning and a rotating rod system that allows for compact storage and minimal interference with the cab, utilizing a side rail and folding assemblies with auxiliary frames for enhanced support and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the support frame is made rigid and fixed for stable support, then the support stability is improved, but the space occupation after folding increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support frame is divided into multiple segments (first support frame, second support frame, third support frame) that can fold relative to each other. Each segment provides structural support while the segmented design enables compact folding, resolving the contradiction between maintaining support stability during use and reducing space occupation during storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic articulated structure with rotatable connections. The first, second, and third support frames can rotate relative to each other, allowing the frame to adapt its configuration - providing stable support when extended and compact folding when retracted, thus resolving the stability versus space occupation contradiction.
2Reliability
If the support frame is positioned close to the cab for better support, then the support effect is improved, but the interference with the cab increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated support frame with rotatable connections between first, second, and third support frames can dynamically adjust its position and configuration. This allows the frame to be positioned close to the cab for optimal support effect while maintaining the ability to fold back and avoid interference with the cab when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The divided support frame structure with multiple rotatable segments provides flexibility in positioning. The first support frame can be positioned close to the cab for better support effect, while the segmented design allows the subsequent frames to fold back, preventing interference with the cab structure.
3Volume of moving object
If the support frame is made foldable for compact storage, then the space occupation is reduced, but the support stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated support frame with rotatable connections provides dynamic stability. When deployed, the multiple support frames work together to provide stable support. When folded, the same rotatable connections enable compact storage. The dynamic nature of the structure allows it to maintain stability during support operations while achieving compact folding for storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented support frame design with first, second, and third support frames connected by rotatable joints enables compact folding for reduced space occupation. Simultaneously, the segmented structure provides multiple support points when deployed, maintaining support stability despite the foldable design.
4Reliability
If the support frame is extended for better support coverage, then the support effect is improved, but the air resistance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated support frame can dynamically adjust its extension and configuration. When support coverage is needed, the frames extend to provide better support effect. When not in use, the frames can be retracted or folded to minimize air resistance, resolving the contradiction between support coverage and aerodynamic drag.
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
The mechanism ensures efficient folding and storage without occupying excessive space, providing stable support for the soft top while minimizing interference with the cab and reducing air resistance.
Implementation Method 1
the rotating rod includes a first end hinged to the hinge seat and the other end hinged to the first main support frame. When the first main support frame is supported, the rotating rod rotates to a front end... After the first main support frame is folded, the rotating rod is close to the rear end
Implementation Method 2
a first folding assembly, including a first main support frame, where the first main support frame is rotatably provided on the side rail; and where, a bottom end of the first main support frame is connected to a movable component; and the movable component is rotatably connected to the side rail
Data Source
AI summary
The provided are a support mechanism and support assembly for a soft top of a truck bed. The support mechanism includes a side rail, a first folding assembly, and a second folding assembly, where the side rail is fixed to the truck bed; the first folding assembly includes a first main support frame that is rotatably provided on the side rail; a bottom end of the first main support frame is connected to a movable component; the movable component is rotatably connected to the side rail, such that the bottom end of the first main support frame is adjustable at least along a length direction of the side rail; the second folding assembly includes a second main support frame; the second main support frame is rotatably provided on the side rail; and the second folding assembly is foldable and storable above the first folding assembly.