Vehicle Accessory Mount System with Concealed Load-Bearing Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle accessory mount systems either require permanent external exoskeletons that increase wind resistance and detract from aesthetics or temporary solutions with reduced load-bearing capability, limiting their use with heavier accessories.
Innovation Solution
A load-bearing framework integrated within the vehicle's endoskeleton, accessible via hidden mount points on the exterior, allowing for interchangeable mounting of various accessories while minimizing wind resistance and maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If an external exoskeleton framework is used to provide sufficient load bearing capability, then the load bearing capability is improved, but the wind resistance increases and aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mount system is nested within the vehicle's interior space, with the framework and sockets concealed inside the vehicle body. The mounting sockets extend through the roof or body panels, allowing external accessory mounting while the bulk of the load-bearing structure remains hidden within the vehicle interior, eliminating the need for external exoskeletons.
Solution Approach 2:
The load-bearing framework is positioned in the third dimension (interior space) rather than externally on the vehicle surface. By moving the mounting system from an external two-dimensional surface mount to an internal three-dimensional framework, the solution achieves full load-bearing capacity while maintaining a clean external vehicle appearance and minimizing wind resistance.
2Strength
If an external exoskeleton framework is used, then the load bearing capability is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mount system is nested within the vehicle's interior space, with the framework and sockets concealed inside the vehicle body. The mounting sockets extend through the roof or body panels, allowing external accessory mounting while the bulk of the load-bearing structure remains hidden within the vehicle interior, eliminating the need for external exoskeletons.
Solution Approach 2:
The load-bearing framework is positioned in the third dimension (interior space) rather than externally on the vehicle surface. By moving the mounting system from an external two-dimensional surface mount to an internal three-dimensional framework, the solution achieves full load-bearing capacity while maintaining a clean external vehicle appearance.
3Ease of operation
If temporary mounting solutions are used to allow removal while not in use, then the ease of operation is improved, but the load bearing capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two distinct components: a permanent, high-strength load-bearing framework integrated into the vehicle structure, and removable accessory components that attach to this framework. This segmentation allows the permanent framework to provide full load-bearing capacity while the removable accessories enable easy operation and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static permanent mounting to a dynamic configuration where accessories can be easily attached and removed from the permanent framework. The quick-connect sockets and posts enable the system to adapt between permanent structural support and temporary accessory mounting, optimizing both load-bearing capability and ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle accessory mount system is provided that substantially eliminates the need for an external framework mounted to the vehicle. All load bearing framework is instead concealed within an interior of the vehicle while only the mount points to the load bearing framework are externalized. The mount points may accommodate virtually any automotive accessory that can be mounted to a vehicle and may be plugged in order to conceal the mounts from sight thereby improving aesthetics and reducing the effects of drag when a vehicle accessory is not in use.