Retractable Cable Locking System for Pickup Truck Tailgate Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles with open cargo beds face issues of theft and cargo loss due to unsecured items, as existing anti-theft solutions like toolboxes and cargo bed covers are bulky, expensive, and difficult to handle.
Innovation Solution
A cable locking system that uses a retractable or fixed spool of cable with a contoured key and lug mechanism, where the cable is secured to the cargo bed and locked by the tailgate, providing a secure and space-efficient solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a toolbox is mounted across a bed or down one or both sides of a bed, then anti-theft protection is improved, but cargo space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the locking function from a fixed mounted structure and relocates it to a portable cable assembly that can be stored on a spool when not in use. The cable with contoured key and lug mechanism provides the necessary anti-theft protection while being compact enough to not occupy permanent cargo space, thus resolving the contradiction between security and cargo capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static mounted toolbox to a dynamic cable assembly that can be deployed and stowed as needed. The cable winds onto a spool that can be positioned anywhere in the cargo bed, allowing the security mechanism to be present only when required, thereby maintaining cargo space availability while providing anti-theft protection when needed.
2Reliability
If a cargo bed cover is used, then anti-theft protection and weather protection are improved, but cargo bed space and handling ease are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the security function from a large integrated bed cover into a separate, lightweight cable assembly with contoured key and lug mechanism. This segmented approach provides the necessary anti-theft protection through the locking cable while avoiding the bulk and handling difficulties of a full bed cover, thus resolving the contradiction between security and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If a cargo bed cover is used, then anti-theft protection is improved, but cost is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces expensive permanent bed covers with a more economical cable assembly that can be manufactured at lower cost. The cable with contoured key and lug mechanism uses simpler materials and construction methods compared to full bed covers, providing effective anti-theft protection while significantly reducing the overall system cost.
4Volume of moving object
If a cable locking system is used, then cargo space is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The contoured key serves multiple functions: it locks the lug to the pillar, provides a gripping surface for the user, and engages with the tailgate locking mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device while maintaining cargo space benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
The vehicle for use with the present system is a pickup truck or other work truck with an open cargo space. The cargo space is typically defined by a rectangular bed surrounded by fixed walls on three sides and a tailgate in the rear of the vehicle. The bottom of the cargo space is referred to as the floor or cargo bed floor. Cargo pillars are positioned at the two back corners of the cargo bed. They are also the structural support for a tailgate. The bottom of the tailgate is rotatably connected to the base of the pillars next to the cargo bed floor. When the tailgate is open or down, it is typically about parallel to the cargo bed floor. When the tailgate is up or closed, it is latched or locked to the upper end of the pillars. A fixed or retractable cable strap, chain, rope, or similar line is adapted to be locked together with the locking of a truck tailgate.