Multi-configurable cargo panel system

#This disclosure relates to cargo area storage systems for vehicles, and more particularly, to a multi-configurable cargo panel system.

#Vehicles, and particularly sport utility type vehicles, often have cargo areas for storing and transporting cargo. The cargo areas in these types of vehicles are generally open areas defined by the floor, the back of the last row of seats, the side quarter panels, and the end gate of the vehicle. As such, items stored within the cargo areas are often unsecured, and may move about the cargo area due to movement of the vehicle. Furthermore, items stored within the cargo areas are often visible from outside the vehicle.

#Storage systems may be incorporated in cargo areas as original equipment or as an aftermarket accessory. Such systems may define fixed, un-adjustable compartments. Fixed storage systems may not provide for an efficient use of the cargo area. Furthermore, storing such storage systems within the vehicle is often counterproductive, as they may take away from available storage space. Storage systems that lack adaptability present problems for customers needing a variety of storage options for the cargo area of the vehicle.

#FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of cargo panel system.

#FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of a first cargo panel.

#FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a second cargo panel.

#As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

#Referring now to FIG. 1, a cargo panel system 10 includes a first cargo panel 12 and a second cargo panel 14. As described in greater detail elsewhere herein, the cargo panels 12, 14 are adjustable between various configurations and positions. One or both of the cargo panels 12, 14 may be formed of a plastic base material (e.g., polypropylene plastic). The cargo panels 12, 14 may be any suitable thickness (e.g., one-quarter to one-half inch). Furthermore, the cargo panels 12, 14 may be covered in a fabric or carpet material that may, for example, reduced vibration or rattling of the cargo panels 12, 14 and noise associated with such vibration or rattling.

#As shown in FIG. 2, the first cargo panel 12 includes a first face 20, a second face 22 (not visible) opposite the first face 20, and four outer edges 24, 26, 28, 30. Outer edges 24 and 28 are preferably longer than outer edges 26 and 30 such that the first cargo panel 12 defines a rectangle. Outer edges 24 and 28 may be referred to as longitudinal edges, and outer edges 26 and 30 may be referred to as side edges.