Asymmetrical Tailgate Frame with Local Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-mode tailgates face asymmetrical mechanical stresses in both opening modes, leading to inefficient structural design and increased weight due to the need for symmetrical reinforcement components to manage these stresses.
Innovation Solution
An asymmetrical frame configuration with a reinforcement frame component overlaid onto the proximal lateral side to enhance torsional stiffness, allowing for efficient stress distribution and reduced weight by targeting specific load requirements in each opening mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If symmetrical reinforcement components are added to both lateral sides of the frame, then structural strength and torsional stiffness are improved, but weight and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing reinforcement components only at specific locations where asymmetrical stresses occur during dual-mode operation. The first reinforcement component is positioned at the first lateral side for swing-open mode, and the second reinforcement component is positioned at the second lateral side for flip-open mode, rather than symmetrically reinforcing both sides equally. This targeted approach provides necessary strength while minimizing weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring reinforcement components differently on opposite lateral sides of the frame. The first reinforcement component at the proximal lateral side has a different configuration than the second reinforcement component at the distal lateral side, matching the asymmetrical stress distribution that occurs during dual-mode operation. This asymmetric reinforcement strategy optimizes structural strength while reducing unnecessary weight.
2Stability of the object's composition
If symmetrical reinforcement components are added to both lateral sides of the frame, then torsional stiffness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing reinforcement components only at specific lateral sides where needed for each opening mode, rather than uniformly reinforcing the entire frame. The first reinforcement component is located at the first lateral side to handle stresses during swing-open mode, and the second reinforcement component is located at the second lateral side for flip-open mode, creating a less complex, more targeted structural solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring reinforcement components differently on opposite lateral sides to match the asymmetrical stress distribution. The first reinforcement component has a different configuration than the second reinforcement component, allowing each to be optimized for its specific loading condition while reducing overall structural complexity compared to a symmetrical design.
3Reliability
If reinforcement components are added to handle asymmetrical stresses, then structural integrity is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning reinforcement components only at the lateral sides where asymmetrical stresses occur during dual-mode operation. The first reinforcement component is placed at the first lateral side to handle stresses during swing-open mode, and the second reinforcement component is placed at the second lateral side for flip-open mode, providing structural integrity only where needed rather than throughout the entire frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring reinforcement components differently on opposite lateral sides to match the asymmetrical stress distribution pattern. This asymmetric reinforcement strategy ensures structural integrity under the specific loading conditions of dual-mode operation while minimizing the total amount of reinforcement material required, thereby reducing weight.
Data Source
AI summary
A tailgate assembly mounted along an open edge of a vehicle's load carrying bed includes a frame having a first or proximal lateral side adapted to be hingedly connected for opening in a swing open mode and a second or distal lateral side oppositely positioned relative to the first lateral side. The tailgate assembly further includes a reinforcement frame component overlaid onto the frame at the first lateral side to increase torsional stiffness at or near the first lateral side.