Pivotable Hitch Bumper for Tailgate Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for loading pallets into pickup trucks using forklifts often result in damage to the tailgate, as the front end of the forklift frequently collides with it, rendering the tailgate unusable.
Innovation Solution
A bumper system comprising a male receiver insert structure, a pivotable bumper member, and an intermediate portion with apertures, allowing the bumper to pivot from a vertical to a horizontal configuration, is installed in the hitch receiver of the truck, preventing the forklift from contacting the tailgate during loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tailgate is folded down to allow forklift loading, then the loading operation can be performed, but the tailgate is damaged by forklift collision
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper acts as an intermediary protective element positioned between the forklift and the tailgate. It absorbs the impact force from the forklift, preventing direct contact with the tailgate while still allowing the loading operation to proceed with the tailgate down.
Solution Approach 2:
The bumper is installed in advance on the tailgate to provide pre-positioned protection. It cushions the tailgate against potential forklift impacts before any damage can occur, enabling safe loading operations without requiring the tailgate to be raised.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the tailgate is raised to prevent forklift collision, then the tailgate is protected, but the loading efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper serves as a mediator that allows the tailgate to remain in the down position for efficient loading while still providing protection against forklift impacts. This eliminates the need to raise the tailgate, maintaining loading efficiency.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a rigid bumper is used to protect the tailgate, then the protection is effective, but the bumper cannot be stored when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper is designed with a pivotable connection to the tailgate, allowing it to dynamically change position. When protection is needed, the bumper extends horizontally; when not needed, it can be pivoted upward to a vertical storage position against the tailgate, providing both protection and storability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bumper system is divided into separable components including the bumper member, mounting brackets, and pivot mechanisms. This segmentation allows the bumper to be easily installed, removed, or stored when not in use, while still providing effective protection when deployed.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the bumper is always extended to protect the tailgate, then the protection is continuous, but the bumper interferes with parking in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable bumper design allows it to be dynamically positioned based on operational needs. During loading operations, it extends horizontally for protection; during tight parking maneuvers, it can be pivoted upward to minimize its protrusion, eliminating interference with parking while maintaining protection capability when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A payload perimeter protecting bumper and method of stopping an approaching vehicle from coming too close to a parked vehicle which includes a male receiver insert structure, which is configured to be inserted into and coupled to a hitch receiver on a truck, an intermediate portion disposed between male receiver insert structure and bumper member, which provides for the pivoting ability. The bumper member has an elongated pivotable structural member. The system is configured so that if you were to be trapped, you could unlock the pivot limiting pin and pivot upward the elongated pivotable structural member, thereby creating more space to move to exit the parking spot. In some embodiments, the elongated pivotable structural member could have a remote controlled linear actuator, with a length that could be automated.