UTV Utility Rack Assembly for Versatile Mounting and Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility racks for UTVs lack versatility and practicality in multiple use scenarios, such as dining, gaming, preparation, and storage, and often fail to provide adequate support for various tools and gear while being compact and easy to mount.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose utility rack with a rectangular table portion and adjustable side rails, featuring reversible brackets, mounting holes for ground or vehicle attachment, and integrated lighting and storage solutions, allowing for flexible use as a table or storage unit and supporting tools, containers, and gear, with an extendable canopy for added functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the utility rack is designed with fixed structure and limited functions, then the manufacturing complexity is low, but the versatility and adaptability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The utility rack is divided into modular components including side assemblies with adjustable braces, interchangeable brackets, and separable mounting systems. This segmentation allows different combinations of components to create various configurations for different uses such as dining tables, workbenches, or storage racks, thereby improving versatility without requiring a completely different structure for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility rack incorporates adjustable braces with multiple positioning holes, reversible brackets that can be installed in different orientations, and extendable table surfaces. These dynamic elements allow the structure to be reconfigured for different functions and sizes, enabling the same basic structure to adapt to various needs while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the utility rack includes multiple functions and accessories, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The utility rack employs universal mounting brackets that can attach to various surfaces (ground, vehicle racks, walls), adjustable braces that serve both structural support and item-hanging functions, and table surfaces that can function as workbenches, dining tables, or storage platforms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing the number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The design merges multiple functions into single components: the side assemblies combine structural support, item mounting, and adjustment capabilities; the brackets serve both as connection elements and as mounting points for accessories; the table surface integrates workspace with storage potential through attached shelves or hanging items. This merging reduces overall component count while maintaining multipurpose functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the utility rack is designed for easy mounting and portability, then the ease of operation is improved, but the structural strength and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The utility rack is designed as separable modules that can be easily assembled and disassembled without requiring specialized tools or complex procedures. The side assemblies, table surface, and mounting brackets are distinct components that connect through simple interfaces, enabling easy transport and reconfiguration while maintaining structural integrity when assembled correctly.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting brackets and connection points are pre-positioned and pre-drilled during manufacturing, allowing for quick field assembly without requiring precise measurements or complex alignment procedures. The adjustable braces come with pre-marked positioning holes that guide proper installation, ensuring both ease of mounting and structural strength without compromising either aspect.
Data Source
AI summary
A multipurpose utility rack of a UTV (utility task vehicle) is disclosed. The utility rack includes an upper assembly containing a rectangular portion that rigidly connects a first side rail parallel to a second side rail, a first side assembly forming a third side rail with one or more brackets that connects the first side assembly to the upper assembly, a second side assembly forming a fourth side rail with one or more brackets that connect the second side assembly to the upper assembly, wherein the first side assembly and the second side assembly connect to the upper assembly with the third side rail parallel to the fourth side rail, with the third side rail perpendicular to the first side rail, and with the fourth side rail perpendicular to the second side rail.