Configurable Linkage Tailgate for Dual Motion Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle tailgates typically offer limited functionality, requiring separate mechanisms for different motions, which can obstruct access and increase hardware complexity, while lacking the ability to adapt conveniently to user needs without adding significant components or actuators.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate assembly utilizing a configurable four-bar linkage system with latches that allows the tailgate to perform both swinging and dropping motions using shared rotational axes, enabling dual functionality without increasing hardware complexity, by securing and releasing links to achieve multiple trajectories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tailgate uses a single dropping motion mechanism, then the structure is simple, but the user cannot stand closer to the vehicle and loses horizontal workspace
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate system dynamically switches between two motion modes (dropping and swinging) based on user needs. The configurable linkage allows the tailgate to transition from a fixed single-motion mechanism to a dynamic multi-motion system, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tailgate assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can drop down vertically for cargo access and swing outward horizontally for user proximity. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling the same structure to serve different operational requirements without adding separate mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a tailgate adds multiple motion mechanisms to achieve both dropping and swinging motions, then the tailgate gains versatility, but the hardware complexity and number of actuators increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dropping and swinging motion mechanisms into a single configurable linkage system. By combining these functions into one integrated mechanism rather than using separate mechanisms, the system achieves multi-motion versatility while minimizing hardware complexity and actuator requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
A single configurable linkage mechanism performs both dropping and swinging motions, making the hardware universal rather than requiring separate dedicated mechanisms for each motion type. This reduces the overall number of components while maintaining versatility.
3Reliability
If a tailgate uses separate mechanisms for dropping and swinging motions, then each motion can be optimized, but the number of components increases and bed access is encroached upon
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple motion control functions into a single configurable linkage mechanism, reducing the number of components while maintaining reliable motion control. The merged mechanism uses shared rotational axes to achieve both dropping and swinging motions without requiring separate actuator systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The configurable linkage provides dynamic control over motion trajectories, allowing the system to switch between dropping and swinging modes as needed. This dynamic capability maintains reliability by using a single well-designed mechanism rather than multiple separate mechanisms that would increase component count.
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 tailgate assembly provides enhanced user access and adaptability, allowing closer proximity to the vehicle while maintaining access to the cargo area, reducing hardware requirements and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The first link is coupled to the tailgate and configured to be coupled to the vehicle at a first hinge having a first rotational axis. The second link is coupled to the tailgate and coupled to the vehicle at a second hinge having a second rotational axis parallel to the first rotational axis. When the first latch is secured, the first link is configured to rotate about the first hinge and the tailgate is configured to achieve a swinging motion.
Implementation Method 2
The first latch is configured to secure and release the first link to the vehicle at the first hinge. When the first latch is secured, the first link is configured to rotate about the first hinge and the tailgate is configured to achieve a swinging motion. When the first latch is released, the first link is free to move away from the first hinge and the tailgate is configured to achieve a dropping motion.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual motion tailgate is configured to undergo two distinct motions, each with advantages depending on circumstances. The tailgate can undergo a rotation (i.e., drop) motion as well as a swing down motion via one or more linkages and corresponding latches. The swing down motion allows closer access to the bed, and the tailgate extends less far from the rear of the vehicle as compared to the drop motion. Latches constrain one or more motions of the tailgate, allowing a desired motion of the tailgate. The motions may be manually controlled, or actuator controlled. When automatically controlled, a control system manages one or more latches and actuators to allow a desired motion of the tailgate.