Ford is seeking to patent new {hardware} for pickup truck beds.
In accordance with a patent utility printed on April 20, 2023 (and initially filed Oct. 19, 2021), the Blue Oval is designing a pop-up mattress rail system. Rails can be housed within the mattress sides and raised up utilizing actuators, based on the appliance.
Ford pop-up mattress rail system patent picture
This type of rail system provides just a few potentialities, Ford says within the utility. Rails might assist safe taller cargo by stringing nets between them, they usually appear to be a great potential mounting level for rooftop tents or different equipment, as different automakers and aftermarket firms at present do with mounted bed-rail techniques.
Ford additionally proposes utilizing movable rails in some extra uncommon methods. The patent utility describes utilizing the rails to raise cargo from the bottom to mattress top with a pivoting attachment, a bit like an in-bed crane. A pair of pivoting crossbars might additionally help a cargo cowl, which may very well be made flush with the highest of the cab to enhance airflow over the truck whereas nonetheless offering room for taller cargo.
Ford pop-up mattress rail system patent picture
This is only one of a number of truck-related Ford patent filings. Up to now this 12 months patent purposes have been seen for a pickup with a midgate and fold-flat seats, a mattress cross-member system that might enable customers to winch cargo into the mattress, and a strong axle with hub motors that will be appropriate for electrical vehicles.
Ford’s rivals have been getting artistic, too. Rivian has tried to patent a brand new mattress storage system, and Normal Motors lately trademarked the Multistow tailgate title, indicating a brand new tailgate design. Patent and trademark filings will not be proof of manufacturing plans, nevertheless, so it is arduous to say which of those concepts—if any—will transfer past the patent stage.
