Customizable Liftgate Actuator Height for Ergonomic Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles with liftgates often have actuator heights that are not customizable, making it difficult for individuals of varying heights or those with disabilities to access the liftgate, as the height is not adjustable to accommodate different users.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows users to set a customized liftgate height based on their anthropometric measurements, which can be applied across multiple vehicles linked to a common user account, using a human-machine interface to measure and adjust the liftgate height relative to the ground plane, and automatically adjust other vehicle components like seats and mirrors for ergonomic positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the liftgate actuator height is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but accessibility for users of different heights is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The liftgate actuator height is made dynamically adjustable through an electric motor-driven mechanism that can change the actuator's vertical position. The system includes a motor, gear train, and linkage system that enables the actuator to move between multiple height positions, transforming a static component into a dynamic one that adapts to different user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the vertical position parameter of the liftgate actuator based on user input. A control system receives height preference data and adjusts the actuator position accordingly, allowing the same liftgate to accommodate users of different heights by modifying the actuator's vertical location within the gate structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the liftgate height is customized for each user, then accessibility is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liftgate system is designed with universal adaptability to serve users of different heights through a single adjustable mechanism. The actuator can be positioned at multiple heights to accommodate various user requirements, making the system versatile enough to replace multiple fixed-height configurations with one adaptable unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to self-select their preferred actuator height through a control interface. The control system automatically positions the actuator based on user input, allowing individuals to service their own accessibility needs without requiring manual mechanical adjustment or external assistance.
3Ease of operation
If the actuator position is adjustable, then user accessibility is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust the actuator position. Sensors detect the current height position and provide feedback to the control unit, which then makes precise adjustments to achieve the desired actuator location, ensuring accurate positioning while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
An electronic control system acts as an intermediary between the user's height preference input and the mechanical actuator adjustment. The controller translates user input into appropriate motor commands, managing the complexity of coordinate transformation and position control while presenting a simple interface to the user.
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-mode personal transportation and delivery devices and methods of use are disclosed herein. A method can include providing a preview of an opening height of a tailgate to a user, where the opening height is defined by a distance of liftgate that is measured relative to a ground plane, receiving feedback to adjust the opening height, creating a customized liftgate opening height from the feedback, and storing the customized liftgate opening height in a user account.