Adjustable Liftgate Handle Using Retractable Flexible Web
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vertically articulating closure panels, such as liftgates, pose a challenge as the handle becomes difficult to reach for users of shorter stature when the panel is fully opened, as it is positioned at the highest point.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable-length handle assembly comprising a retractor, a flexible web, a flexible web guide roller, and a gripping portion, which allows length adjustment by deploying and retracting a flexible web with a biasing member, enabling the handle to be positioned at a more accessible height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the handle is positioned at the highest point when the panel is fully opened, then the closure panel can be securely closed from the top position, but users of shorter stature cannot easily reach the handle
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly is made dynamically adjustable in length through a retractable mechanism. The flexible web can be extended or retracted based on the user's needs, allowing the handle to move between different positions. This dynamic adjustment enables users of various statures to reach the handle easily while maintaining secure closure capability when fully opened.
Solution Approach 2:
The length parameter of the handle is made variable rather than fixed. By changing the effective length of the handle through the retractable flexible web mechanism, the system adapts to different user heights and reach capabilities. The biasing member allows the web to extend and retract, providing parameter adjustment without complex control systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a retractable flexible web mechanism is added to adjust handle length, then adaptability to different user statures is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member (spring) provides automatic retraction of the flexible web without requiring user intervention or complex control mechanisms. When the user releases the handle, the spring automatically pulls the web back to its stowed position. This self-service mechanism reduces complexity by eliminating the need for motors, sensors, or control systems while still providing the desired adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible web is designed to nest within or alongside the closure panel structure when retracted. The retractor mechanism integrates the web into the existing handle assembly, minimizing the space required and reducing overall structural complexity. The web can be stored within a housing or along the panel edge, keeping the mechanism compact and simple.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable handle ensures that users of varying heights can easily access the closure panel by allowing the handle to be extended or retracted, accommodating different statures and improving usability.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing member may be selected from a torsion spring, a flat coil spring, or a constant force spring
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable-length handle assembly for a vehicle includes a retractor and a flexible web disposed to deploy from and retract into the retractor. A gripping portion is disposed at a distal end of the flexible web. The assembly may further include a flexible web guide roller having a brake mechanism, to allow adjusting the handle assembly to a desired position.