Modular Tire Carrier Pivot Mechanism for Bedslide Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pickup truck bed accessories lack versatility and convenience in storing spare tires and accommodating tonneau covers, as they often require fixed orientations that limit access and compatibility with different truck configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular tire carrier system that can be attached to bedslides via a universal accessory attachment system, allowing the tire carrier to pivot between vertical and horizontal positions, and a racking system that can be securely attached to either bedslides or tailgate hitches, utilizing receivers and posts for flexible installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the tire carrier is designed with a fixed orientation, then the structure is simple and stable, but the versatility and adaptability to different truck configurations are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The tire carrier is designed with a pivot mechanism that allows it to transition between vertical and horizontal orientations. The pivot pin and pivot opening enable the carrier to change its angle relative to the bedslide, providing dynamic adaptability to different truck configurations and tonneau cover types without requiring multiple separate carriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The tire carrier is designed to serve multiple functions and configurations through a single universal structure. It can be attached to bedslides in various positions, oriented vertically or horizontally, and accommodates different truck configurations. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate carriers for different purposes.
2Ease of operation
If the tire carrier is positioned vertically, then access to the tire is convenient, but the tonneau cover cannot be properly installed
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier's pivot mechanism allows the operator to switch between vertical orientation (for easy tire access) and horizontal orientation (for tonneau cover compatibility). The pivot pin and pivot opening enable smooth transition between these states, allowing the same carrier to serve both purposes depending on the immediate need.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier structure is divided into separable components including the carrier body, pivot mechanism, and mounting bracket. This segmentation allows the carrier to be repositioned and reoriented independently, enabling it to accommodate both vertical access needs and horizontal tonneau cover installation requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tire carrier is positioned horizontally, then the tonneau cover can be installed, but access to the tire requires more effort
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot mechanism allows the carrier to be positioned horizontally for tonneau cover installation, but can be quickly rotated to vertical for easy tire access when needed. The pivot pin and pivot opening enable this dynamic repositioning without requiring tool removal or complex manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier's pivot mechanism is designed to be easily operated by the user without requiring tools or complex procedures. The pivot pin can be manually rotated through the pivot opening to switch orientations, making the system self-servicing and convenient for users to adjust according to their needs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed attachment system is used, then the installation is simple, but the versatility to attach to different locations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system uses universal receivers and posts that can be installed at multiple locations along the bedslide. The same receiver design can accommodate different positions, and the post can be attached to various receivers, providing flexible attachment options without requiring multiple specialized mounting systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into separate components: receivers mounted at different locations on the bedslide, posts that can be attached to any receiver, and the tire carrier that connects to the post. This segmentation allows flexible combination of components to achieve various attachment configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular accessory attachment system for a tire carrier, a bike rack, container, or other structure that can be selectively attached to either a bedslide, cargo box bed, or tailgate hitch, is provided. The modular accessory attachment system may include a plurality of receivers disposed through the deck of the bedslide. Correspondingly sized posts may be extend from the tire carrier, bike rack, other racks, or accessories, and be disposed into the receivers. Pins, detents, or other like attachment means may be employed to secure the posts to the receivers.