Convertible Vehicle Storage Container

What is this patent about?

’948 is related to the field of vehicle storage solutions , specifically addressing the need for increased cargo space in vehicles equipped with roof rack systems. The background involves existing storage products that often lack versatility, either by being permanently attached to a specific vehicle or by not offering a compact storage solution when not in use. This invention aims to overcome these limitations by providing a convertible storage container.

The underlying idea behind ’948 is to create a vehicle storage container that can be easily collapsed into a flat, compact form when not needed, and quickly expanded into a rigid, enclosed container for use. This is achieved through a hinged panel design where the side, front, and rear panels fold inward onto a base panel. A flexible sliding door, stowed beneath the base when collapsed, provides enclosure when the container is erected.

The claims of ’948 focus on a vehicle storage container designed for roof rack mounting, comprising a base panel, front panel, rear panel, two side panels, and a flexible sliding door. The key feature is its ability to convert into a smaller structure. Claim 1 emphasizes the sequential opening of the side panels followed by the front and rear panels, which then latch together. Claim 2 highlights the flexible sliding door's movement from beneath the base to enclose the structure.

In practice, the container is erected by first unfolding the side panels outward, followed by raising the front and rear panels. Latches secure the corners where the panels meet, creating a rigid box. The flexible sliding door, guided by tracks along the base and side panels, then slides into place to enclose the storage space. When not in use, the process is reversed: the latches are released, the panels are folded inward, and the sliding door is stowed beneath the base, resulting in a flat, easily storable package.

This design differentiates itself from prior solutions by offering both easy mounting on various vehicles with roof racks and a compact storage option when not in use. Unlike permanently mounted or vehicle-specific storage solutions, this convertible container provides versatility and convenience. The flexible sliding door, stowing neatly beneath the base, further contributes to the container's compact form factor when collapsed, a feature not commonly found in existing vehicle storage products.