Lift Gate Mounting Correction System for Misaligned Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lift gate systems face challenges in secure and efficient mounting on vehicles, particularly due to misalignment issues that can prevent proper operation of the lift gate platform.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system comprising a pair of spaced support columns with corresponding mounting members and securing mechanisms, including protrusions and wedge-shaped securing devices, to securely attach and align the lift gate columns with the vehicle structure, ensuring proper alignment and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid mounting system is used to secure the lift gate, then the lift gate can be firmly attached to the vehicle structure, but misalignment between mounting points can prevent proper operation
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable mounting members that can be positioned at multiple locations along the support columns. This adjustability allows the system to adapt to misaligned vehicle mounting points while maintaining secure attachment, resolving the contradiction between rigid mounting security and alignment tolerance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for changing the mounting parameters (position, orientation) of the mounting members relative to the support columns. By adjusting these parameters, the system can accommodate various degrees of misalignment in the vehicle structure while maintaining proper lift gate operation.
2Ease of manufacture
If mounting members are attached directly to the vehicle structure, then installation is simplified, but vehicle frame misalignments can cause non-parallel support columns
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting members serve as an intermediary between the vehicle structure and the support columns. They can be attached directly to the vehicle (maintaining installation simplicity) while providing adjustment capability to achieve proper column alignment, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of installation and alignment precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lift gate is mounted on a vehicle with bent frame, then the lift gate can still be installed, but the support columns may not be parallel preventing platform operation
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable mounting members enable the system to adapt to bent vehicle frames by positioning the support columns at appropriate locations and angles. This maintains platform operation reliability despite the vehicle frame deformations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for local adjustments at each mounting location to compensate for frame bends. Each mounting member can be independently positioned to achieve proper column parallelism and platform operation, resolving the contradiction between mounting flexibility and operational reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices for correcting a mounting system for mounting a lift gate on a structure, the lift gate having a lift platform supported between a pair of spaced support columns, the correction system including: a first mounting member configured for attachment onto the structure; a first lift gate support column configured for attachment onto the first mounting member; a first correction mechanism configured to couple with a first support block, where the first correction mechanism creates a force between the first lift gate support column and the first mounting member when engaged, resulting in a first corrective gap forming between the first lift gate support column and the first mounting member; and where the resulting corrective gap orients the first lift gate support column to be substantially parallel with a plane parallel to a rear of the structure such that the lift gate platform can be operated.