Telescoping Truck Rack with Retractable Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for pick-up truck racks either diminish the truck's cargo flexibility or are prone to weather-induced deterioration and require complex assembly or storage, failing to provide a flexible and durable long-length load carrying capability.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping over-the-bed rack system for pick-up trucks, featuring a rack assembly with rollers and tracks on the roof and side walls, allowing easy deployment and retraction, and a locking mechanism for securing the rack in place, ensuring flexibility and resistance to weather degradation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a permanent over-the-bed rack is installed, then the truck can carry long-length loads, but the cargo flexibility is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system is divided into separate components: a rack assembly that can be detached and stored, and a mounting system with tracks and locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows the rack to be installed when needed and removed when not needed, maintaining cargo flexibility while providing long-length load capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack system transitions from a static permanent installation to a dynamic removable system. The rack assembly can be moved between installed and stored positions, and the locking mechanism allows for easy attachment and detachment, enabling the system to adapt to different cargo requirements.
2Ease of operation
If temporary rack components are stored on the exterior of the truck, then the rack can be deployed when needed, but the components are subject to weather-induced deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The rack assembly is designed to nest within the truck bed when not in use. The support legs fold inward and the rack structure compactly stores inside the cargo area, protecting components from weather exposure while maintaining easy accessibility for deployment when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a permanent rack is installed, then long-load carrying capability is provided, but the truck cannot carry tall items
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system allows dynamic adjustment of cargo space by being removable. When tall items need to be transported, the rack assembly can be detached and stored, clearing the vertical space above the truck bed. When long-length loads are needed, the rack is installed to provide extended carrying capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A material supporting system for a pick-up truck includes a platform with side members oriented parallel to one another; and cross-members interposed between the slide members. The system also includes support legs, first tracks, second tracks and roller assemblies. One of the roller assemblies is attached to a first end of one of the slide members. One of the support legs is attached to a second end, opposite the first end, of said slide member; and one of the roller assemblies is attached to said support leg.