Portable Automotive Tray Canopy with Sealed Enclosure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility vehicle trays often lack secure storage for camping gear, leaving items exposed to the elements and vulnerable to theft.
Innovation Solution
A portable automotive tray canopy with a sealed internal space, featuring adjustable roof mounts, central locking, ventilation, and a power supply system, including a refrigerator and lighting, made from lightweight and corrosion-resistant aluminum panels, designed to fit partially along the tray.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a portable canopy structure is provided for securing items on the tray, then security and protection from elements is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy is divided into modular components including a roof assembly, four separate wall panels, and a floor panel that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation enables portable assembly while providing complete enclosure for security and element protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy structure serves multiple functions: it provides security through locking mechanisms, protection from elements through sealed enclosure, ventilation through integrated vents, and power supply through battery and solar panel integration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices.
2Ease of operation
If the canopy is made portable for easy installation and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but the strength and stability of the structure may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy transitions from a static permanent structure to a dynamic portable structure that can be assembled and disassembled. The walls are designed to pivot between vertical and horizontal positions, enabling easy installation while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy components are pre-designed with integrated connection features and alignment guides that facilitate quick assembly. The pre-configured modular design allows users to assemble the complete structure without requiring complex tools or procedures.
3Speed
If the walls taper inwardly with increasing height for aerodynamic profile, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but the internal storage volume is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The wall panels feature asymmetric tapering that is more pronounced on the rear wall than the front wall. This asymmetric design optimizes aerodynamic flow over the tray while preserving maximum internal storage volume in the forward section where cargo is typically loaded.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to an automotive tray canopy for fitting to a tray of a vehicle. The canopy includes a roof and four walls depending from the roof. A floor extends between the walls. The canopy is portable and may form a completely sealed internal storage space for storing items out of the elements.