Deployable Bed Cover Assembly With Object Detection for Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle tailgate systems, particularly in pickup trucks, suffer from aerodynamic inefficiencies due to airflow issues and lack of durability, object detection, and compatibility with vehicle systems, leading to potential damage from sliding objects and inadequate aerodynamic performance.
Innovation Solution
An active bed cover assembly with a deployable panel driven by a sealed, clutchable actuator that communicates with the vehicle, allowing automatic deployment and retraction based on predetermined conditions, such as vehicle speed, to improve aerodynamics and prevent damage while maintaining cargo bed access and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a fixed panel or motorized deployable panel is used to improve aerodynamics, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but the system becomes vulnerable to damage from sliding objects and lacks durability
Solution Approach 1:
The bed cover system employs a deployable panel that can dynamically change its state between extended and retracted positions. The panel is actuated by an actuator that responds to detected objects or user input, allowing the system to adapt to different conditions rather than remaining fixed. This dynamic capability enables the panel to protect against sliding objects by retracting when needed while maintaining aerodynamic benefits when the bed is clear.
2Productivity
If a deployable panel is extended to improve aerodynamics at high speeds, then fuel economy is improved, but the panel may be damaged by sliding objects in the cargo bed
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates object detection capability that provides feedback about the presence of objects in the cargo bed. When an object is detected or when the system anticipates potential damage, the actuator receives feedback signals to retract the deployable panel. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust its aerodynamic profile based on real-time conditions, protecting the panel from damage while maintaining fuel efficiency when appropriate.
3Reliability
If the deployable panel is made robust to prevent damage, then durability is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than making the panel statically robust against all possible damage scenarios, the system uses dynamic control to retract the panel when damage risks are detected. This approach achieves durability through intelligent behavior rather than excessive structural reinforcement, thereby avoiding the added complexity and cost that would result from designing a panel capable of withstanding all potential sliding object impacts.
4Reliability
If the panel is kept retracted to prevent damage, then durability is maintained, but aerodynamic efficiency is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the panel position based on real-time detection of objects and driving conditions. When no objects are present and aerodynamic efficiency is beneficial, the panel extends. When objects are detected or damage risk is anticipated, the panel retracts. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to achieve both durability and aerodynamic efficiency at different times as conditions dictate.
Data Source
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AI summary
An active bed cover system (410) having at least one deployable panel (422) and at least one actuator (30). The deployable panel (422) extends and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract within the tailgate (20) and/or cargo bed liner allowing for access to the bed and improved usability and aesthetics. The active bed cover provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.