Automated Cargo Access Device for Vehicle Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for loading motor vehicles require manual operation to open access openings, which is cumbersome and difficult for bulky or heavy items, and do not automatically adjust the cargo area for optimal stowage.
Innovation Solution
An assistance device with a detection system that automatically opens access openings to the cargo area using electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic drives, and adjusts movable elements for optimal loading based on item dimensions and weight, allowing for wireless detection and authorization, and automatic reclosure after loading is complete.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to open access openings, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates for bulky or heavy items
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects items and opens access openings without manual intervention. The detection device identifies items to be loaded, and the door opening device automatically actuates the tailgate or side doors, eliminating the need for users to manually open access openings while carrying bulky or heavy items.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated system combining detection devices (optical/electronic sensors) and door opening devices (electric/pneumatic/hydraulic actuators). This substitution automates the opening process while maintaining mechanical actuation capability through alternative energy sources.
2Ease of operation
If automated door opening is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system activates door opening only when items are detected, rather than continuously operating. The detection device triggers the door opening device selectively based on the presence of items to be loaded, reducing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining automated operation when needed.
3Productivity
If access openings are automatically opened, then productivity improves, but reliability of secure access deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates detection devices that continuously monitor the loading area and item presence. This feedback mechanism ensures that access openings are opened only when items are detected, and the system can track loading progress to determine when doors should be closed, maintaining security while improving loading efficiency.
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
Simplifies the loading process by eliminating the need for manual operation of access openings and optimizing the cargo area for efficient stowage, reducing effort and time, especially for bulky or heavy items, while ensuring secure access and protecting the vehicle from unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
The door opening device (26) may then adjust, for example, the side door (20), the trunk lid (28), the tailgate (30), the roof cover (15) of the convertible, the sliding roof (40) and/or the windows (42) from a closed position into an open position by means of an electric, pneumatic, and/or hydraulic drive.
Implementation Method 2
The door opening device (26) may then adjust, for example, the side door (20), the trunk lid (28), the tailgate (30), the roof cover (15) of the convertible, the sliding roof (40) and/or the windows (42) from a closed position into an open position by means of an electric, pneumatic, and/or hydraulic drive.
Implementation Method 3
The door opening device (26) may then adjust, for example, the side door (20), the trunk lid (28), the tailgate (30), the roof cover (15) of the convertible, the sliding roof (40) and/or the windows (42) from a closed position into an open position by means of an electric, pneumatic, and/or hydraulic drive.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an assistance device for loading a motor vehicle, having at least one detection device by means of which an item that is to be loaded into the motor vehicle is detectable, and having a door opening device by means of which at least one access opening to a cargo area of the motor vehicle is releasable in accordance with this detection of the item. The disclosure further relates to a method for operating an assistance device.