Deployable Container Liftgate Using Nested Linkage Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for unloading cargo from containers require manual removal and external equipment, such as forklifts, which is inefficient and impractical for temporary fieldwork setups where portability and space are essential.

Innovation Solution

A deployable liftgate apparatus fully enclosed within the container, utilizing dual anchor frames, linkage members, and actuators to pivotally extend and retract, allowing for efficient unloading and re-stowing within the container space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a permanently mounted liftgate apparatus is installed inside the container, then unloading efficiency is improved and external equipment is eliminated, but the device complexity and space requirements within the container increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveunloading efficiencyVSAvoidapparatus complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The liftgate is designed to nest within the container interior when not in use. The mounting plate and linkage members are configured to fold or retract into a compact configuration that fits within the container's cargo space, allowing the apparatus to be stored without requiring external space while maintaining full functionality when deployed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The liftgate apparatus employs movable linkage members and a deployable mounting plate that can transition between retracted and extended positions. The hydraulic or pneumatic actuator enables dynamic adjustment of the liftgate position, allowing it to adapt between a compact stored state and a functional deployed state, thereby resolving the contradiction between space efficiency and operational capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Volume of moving object

If the liftgate is fully enclosed within the cargo space in nested position, then portability and space utilization are improved, but access to the cargo area may be restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidcargo area access

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The liftgate apparatus is divided into separate functional components: the mounting plate, linkage members, actuator, and liftgate panel. This segmentation allows the mounting mechanism to be positioned along the container wall while the liftgate panel itself can be deployed independently, creating an opening in the wall without blocking the cargo area. The modular design enables cargo access while maintaining compact storage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the liftgate is deployed outside the cargo space, then unloading functionality is improved, but the device occupies external space and may require additional mounting structures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveunloading functionalityVSAvoidmounting structure extent

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting plate is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support for the liftgate mechanism, attaches to the container wall, and acts as a pivot point for the linkage members. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets or additional external structures, allowing the liftgate to be deployed outside the cargo space while minimizing the extent of the mounting structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables efficient and space-saving unloading of cargo without external equipment, maintaining access to the cargo area while ensuring the liftgate is fully functional and securely stored when not in use.

Implementation Method 1

Upon deployment of the actuator the cylinder rods extend and apply force to the rear linkage member. The rear linkage member and front linkage member simultaneously rotate downward, deploying the liftgate from a nested position to a deployed position.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

The mounting member is attached at a pivotal connection by a front linkage member and a rear linkage member; both linkages are further attached at a pivotal connection to dual anchor frames fixed to the container.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotation:

Data Source

PatentUS9211831B2Apparatus to deploy a liftgate fully contained within a cargo space and method

Publication Date: 2015.12.15 FRAZIER JOHN

AI summary

An apparatus and a method that deploys a liftgate from the cargo space of a contained area is described. In one embodiment the device has an anchor frame permanently attached to the inside of a cargo space and a front linkage member and a rear linkage member pivotably attached to the anchor frame. An actuator is pivotably attached on one end to the rear linkage member and to the anchor frame on the other end. The front and rear linkage bars are further attached on the opposite ends to a mounting member, which is attached to a liftgate. In a nested state the liftgate is stored and locked in a horizontal position above the apparatus. In an engaged state, the front linkage member and rear linkage member rotate and the mounting member translates and rotates through the cargo door opening to reposition the liftgate in a functional position outside of the cargo space.