Backup Camera Mounting Bracket for Pickup Trucks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Backup cameras on pickup trucks become inoperable when the tailgate is lowered, posing a significant visibility issue, especially when carrying large loads or campers, as they point towards the ground and cannot capture objects behind the truck effectively.
Innovation Solution
An add-on device that redirects the image of the backup camera without requiring wiring, allowing it to remain functional even when the tailgate is in the down position, using a mounting bracket and mechanical assembly to adjust the camera's position and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the backup camera is mounted on the tailgate, then the camera is easily accessible and integrated into the vehicle structure, but the camera becomes inoperable when the tailgate is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic mounting system where the camera can change its orientation based on tailgate position. The camera is mounted on a bracket that allows it to rotate or adjust its angle, transitioning from a fixed downward position when the tailgate is down to an upward-facing position when the tailgate is up, thereby maintaining functionality in both states
Solution Approach 2:
The camera's operational parameters (specifically its orientation angle) are changed based on tailgate position. The system detects whether the tailgate is up or down and adjusts the camera's angular parameter accordingly, allowing it to capture images in the correct direction regardless of tailgate state
2Volume of moving object
If the tailgate is lowered to carry large loads or campers, then the cargo capacity is improved, but the backup camera cannot capture objects behind the truck
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system dynamically adjusts its orientation to maintain rear visibility regardless of tailgate position. When the tailgate is down for cargo, the camera rotates to face upward to capture the area behind the truck. When the tailgate is up, the camera returns to its normal downward-facing position, ensuring continuous rear visibility in both scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The solution introduces an additional degree of freedom by mounting the camera on a rotating bracket rather than fixing it directly to the tailgate. This allows the camera to operate in two different angular dimensions - facing down when the tailgate is up and facing up when the tailgate is down - thereby maintaining visibility functionality across different cargo configurations
Data Source
AI summary
The inventive subject matter comprises an add-on device that works on most pickup trucks and makes the backup camera functional when the tailgate is down. The device redirects the image of the existing backup camera without the need for wiring.