Power Split Tailgate Independent Door Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In vehicles with tailgates, occupants are exposed to outside elements when the tailgate is opened, causing discomfort, especially in extreme climates or poor air quality conditions, and existing systems make it difficult to independently control the opening and closing of upper and lower tailgate doors.
Innovation Solution
A power split tailgate system with independent control means for two doors, allowing the upper door to be partially opened to clear the lower door for opening or closing, using electric motors and remote control signals to manage door articulation and control sequences, ensuring minimal exposure to the passenger compartment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tailgate is opened to provide access to the passenger compartment, then accessibility is improved, but occupants are exposed to outside elements causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate is divided into two separate doors (first door and second door) that can be controlled independently. This segmentation allows the system to open only the necessary door for access while keeping the other door closed, thereby minimizing the exposed area and reducing occupant exposure to outside elements while maintaining accessibility.
2Ease of operation
If the first door is opened fully to allow the second door to open, then the second door can be accessed, but the passenger compartment is exposed to outside elements for extended period
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs preliminary action by automatically opening the first door only to the extent necessary to clear the second door for opening. This preliminary partial opening eliminates the need for full manual opening of the first door, reducing the time the passenger compartment remains exposed while still enabling access to the second door.
3Adaptability or versatility
If independent control of first and second doors is implemented, then selective access is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed with multi-functionality to handle various door control scenarios: opening only the second door, opening both doors simultaneously, closing doors individually or together, and automatic sequencing. This universal control capability provides selective access adaptability while consolidating control functions into a single integrated system rather than requiring separate control mechanisms for each door.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the first door is partially opened automatically, then the second door can be opened without full exposure, but additional control sequencing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs self-service by automatically executing the door sequencing operation without requiring user intervention. When the user requests to open the second door, the control system autonomously opens the first door to the necessary extent, waits for the second door to clear, then closes the first door automatically. This self-service approach minimizes exposure area while the automated nature of the sequence reduces the perceived complexity for the user.
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 effectively minimizes occupant exposure to external elements by allowing controlled and independent movement of tailgate doors, enhancing comfort and convenience, especially in climate-controlled environments.
Implementation Method 1
The drive means may comprise at least one electric motor, and wherein the motor may be used to articulate the second door is positioned within a watertight interior of the second door.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
A power, split tailgate system is provided that allows each of an upper and a lower tailgate door to be simultaneously or independently driven between open and closed positions. The tailgate system may be operated in a chauffer mode where the lower tailgate door is opened to allow for the storage of luggage and other materials and in a manner that limits exposure of the passenger compartment.