Multimodal Trunk Lid Pivoting and Translating Modes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle trunk lids often struggle with access in tight spaces due to their design, which can result in scratches, hindered opening, and prolonged access times, especially when trying to access hidden cargo floors.

Innovation Solution

A multimodal trunk lid that operates in two modes: a first mode where it pivots around a pivot point to an upward-swinging open position, and a second mode where it moves translationally to a different open position, allowing for more versatile and space-efficient access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the trunk lid is pivoted around a first pivot point to an upward-swinging open position, then the trunk lid can be opened fully for complete access to cargo, but the trunk lid may hit low ceilings or neighboring vehicles in tight spaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to trunk contentsVSAvoidoperation in narrow spaces
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The trunk lid system dynamically switches between two operating modes: a first mode with a first pivot point for full opening in open spaces, and a second mode with a second pivot point for limited opening in tight spaces. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to different environmental constraints while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The trunk lid is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating two pivot points and two distinct open positions. The first open position provides full access to the cargo compartment, while the second open position enables operation in confined spaces. This universal design allows the same trunk lid to serve multiple opening scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the trunk lid is moved translationally to a second open position, then the trunk lid can operate in narrow spaces without hitting obstacles, but the access to hidden cargo floors becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation in narrow spacesVSAvoidaccess to hidden cargo floors
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically selects the appropriate pivot point based on the opening scenario. When operating in narrow spaces, the second pivot point is engaged for translational movement that avoids obstacles. When full access is needed, the system switches to the first pivot point, enabling the trunk lid to swing fully open and provide easy access to hidden cargo floors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The trunk lid opening function is segmented into two distinct modes with different pivot points. The first mode handles full-access scenarios, while the second mode handles confined-space scenarios. This segmentation allows each mode to be optimized for its specific purpose without compromise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Extent of automation

If an electric actuator is used to adjust the trunk lid, then the opening process is automated, but the opening time becomes relatively long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical adjustmentVSAvoidwaiting time for access
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The electric actuator is designed to provide sufficient force and speed to move the trunk lid between its two open positions. By optimizing the actuator's performance characteristics, the system achieves rapid transition between modes, minimizing the time penalty associated with automated operation while maintaining full automation benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS20250146346A1Vehicle with multimodal trunk lid
Publication Date: 2025.05.08 HELLA GMBH & CO KGAA
  • US20250146346A1 patent drawing
  • US20250146346A1 patent drawing
  • US20250146346A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle with a multimodal trunk lid. The multimodal trunk lid is mounted in a first mode of operation around a first pivot point located at one end of the multimodal trunk lid on a vehicle body in a way that it can be pivoted into a first open position. The multimodal trunk lid is also mounted on the vehicle body in a second mode of operation so that it can be moved translationally to a second open position.