Tailgate including tray and method of spreading tray and truck including the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a tailgate structure in pickup trucks that enhances both practicality and aerodynamic performance, particularly when the vehicle is in motion or stopped, to accommodate various uses and improve airflow dynamics.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate with an integrated tray that can be unfolded and locked in place, featuring actuators, locking members, and elastic components to facilitate upward protrusion and rotation, allowing trays to unfold outwardly and inwardly for improved aerodynamics and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a tray is added to the tailgate for practical use, then usability is improved, but aerodynamic performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tray is designed to be movable between a stored position (flush with tailgate) and a deployed position (protruding outward), allowing the system to dynamically adapt between aerodynamic efficiency during travel and usability when stopped
Solution Approach 2:
The tray is divided into multiple sections that can be independently controlled, with each section having its own actuator and locking mechanism, allowing selective deployment of only the needed portions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tray is made movable for versatility, then adaptability is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tray sections are nested within the tailgate structure when retracted, with each tray section containing its own actuator and locking mechanisms integrated into the overall assembly, minimizing external complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic members automatically engage with the locking members to secure the tray in deployed or retracted positions without requiring active control systems, reducing complexity while maintaining functionality
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the tray protrudes outward for aerodynamics, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members and elastic members are pre-positioned within the tray structure, ready to automatically engage when the tray reaches its deployed or retracted position, ensuring stable fixation before any external forces act on the tray
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members feature curved or tapered surfaces that guide the engagement process, ensuring smooth and stable locking action that prevents vibration or loosening during vehicle operation
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 solution provides enhanced aerodynamic performance during vehicle travel and increased practicality by allowing the tray to be unfolded for various purposes, such as additional storage or as a table, while maintaining structural integrity and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator provided in the tailgate and pushing the tray to protrude upwardly
Implementation Method 2
a first elastic member provided between the lockers and pushing the lockers to both sides
Implementation Method 3
An upper portion of the actuator may include a hinge member configured to allow the tray to rotate
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment tailgate includes a tray accommodated in the tailgate, the tray being configured to protrude upwardly and to be folded and unfolded, an actuator disposed in the tailgate and configured to push the tray to protrude upwardly, and a locking member configured to fix a position of the tray in a state in which the tray protrudes outwardly and is unfolded.