Adjustable Pickup Truck Loading Ramp with Foldable Tailgate Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading devices for ATVs and snowmobiles into pickup trucks fail to accommodate varying cargo bed dimensions and require full removal for tailgate closure, limiting versatility and security.
Innovation Solution
A loading apparatus with a cargo bed platform and pivotally connected tailgate platform that deploys to form an extension, allowing ramp storage within the truck, and adjustable extension rods to match truck lengths, enabling secure loading and unloading without full removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the loading apparatus is designed to fit within the cargo bed, then the cargo bed dimensions are accommodated, but the tailgate cannot be closed without full removal of the apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The loading apparatus is divided into two main segments: a cargo bed platform assembly that remains in the cargo bed, and a tailgate platform assembly that can be independently folded. This segmentation allows the cargo bed platform to stay in place while the tailgate platform is folded away, enabling tailgate closure without full removal of the apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The tailgate platform assembly is designed with dynamic folding capability through pivotal connections, allowing it to transition between extended and folded positions. This dynamic design enables the platform to adapt its configuration based on whether the tailgate needs to be open or closed, resolving the contradiction between maintaining cargo bed fit and enabling tailgate closure.
2Ease of operation
If the tailgate platform assembly is extended to reach from the rear end, then loading capability is improved, but storage space when not in use is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate platform assembly is designed to fold back over and nest upon the cargo bed platform assembly when not in use. This nesting configuration minimizes the volume occupied by the loading apparatus when stored, while still maintaining full loading capability when deployed.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the apparatus is made fixed to maintain stability, then stability is improved, but adaptability to different truck models is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus employs adjustable extension rods with telescopic capabilities that can be extended or retracted to match different cargo bed lengths. This dynamic adjustability maintains stability through proper positioning while enabling compatibility across various pickup truck models with different cargo bed dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension rods allow for parameter changes in the apparatus length to match different cargo bed dimensions. By adjusting the extension rod length, the apparatus can be adapted to fit various truck models while maintaining stable operation through proper structural configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A loading apparatus for a tailgate-equipped cargo bed of a pickup truck features a cargo bed platform assembly, and a tailgate platform assembly pivotally connected to the rear end of the cargo bed platform assembly. The tailgate platform assembly is pivotable relative to the cargo bed platform assembly between a stowed position overlying the cargo bed platform assembly and a deployed position forming a rearward extension of the cargo bed platform. Between uses, the tailgate platform is storable in the cargo bed in a secured manner behind a closed tailgate. When needed, the tailgate is opened and the tailgate platform is folded down onto the open tailgate. An overall effective length of the apparatus is adjustable to fit different cargo bed sizes by extension of retraction of a longitudinal adjustment member that extends forwardly from the cargo bed platform to abutting against a front wall of the cargo bed.