Pickup Bed Power Outlet Sensing for Cord-Safe Tailgate Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle cargo compartment systems do not effectively manage the operation of powered liftgates and tonneau covers in conjunction with electric outlets, particularly in detecting and responding to the presence of electrical cords and user proximity, leading to potential interference and security issues.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle cargo compartment system that includes a sensor assembly to detect the presence of an electrical power cord, a controller to generate alerts and automate the operation of the liftgate and tonneau cover based on sensor inputs, and cord management features like a movable cord router and retention structures to ensure safe and secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the rear lift gate and cover are made powered for automated operation, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lift gate and tonneau cover into an integrated powered system where both components are controlled by a single controller (15) that receives inputs from various sensors. This merging allows automated coordinated operation of both components while consolidating control logic, thereby improving ease of operation while managing device complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically opening the lift gate and tonneau cover before the user needs to access the cargo area. The controller monitors sensor inputs and proactively actuates the powered components to prepare for user access, eliminating the need for manual operation and enhancing convenience.
2Reliability
If sensors are added to detect electrical cords and user proximity, then safety and security are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller (15) serves multiple functions by processing inputs from various sensors including proximity sensors and electrical cord detection sensors. It coordinates the operation of both the lift gate and tonneau cover, manages alert signals, and responds to different sensor inputs with appropriate automated actions. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate control systems, improving safety while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor the environment (user proximity, electrical cord presence) and communicate status to the controller. The controller processes this feedback and adjusts system operation accordingly, such as preventing closure when cords are detected or alerting users to potential hazards, thereby enhancing safety through continuous monitoring and responsive control.
3Productivity
If the system automatically operates the lift gate and cover based on sensor detection, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The powered lift gate and tonneau cover system operates autonomously based on sensor inputs without requiring manual intervention. The controller automatically interprets sensor data and actuates the appropriate components to facilitate user access or secure the cargo area, enabling the system to serve itself and improving operational efficiency while managing complexity through integrated control.
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
The system ensures safe operation by preventing interference between electrical cords and powered components, automatically managing access and security based on user presence and environmental conditions, while maintaining cord organization and protection.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor assembly comprises an infrared sensor assembly that detects a presence of the electric conduit within an area proximate the electric outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle cargo compartment system includes an electric outlet mounted within an accessible location within a vehicle cargo compartment and a sensor assembly mounted proximate the electric outlet within the cargo compartment for detecting a presence of an electrical power cord. The cargo compartment system integrates powered features such as an electric outlet, powered tailgate and the powered top that utilizes environmental information gathered by various sensors on the vehicle in combination with predefined actions to simplify use and automate operation.