Removable Tailgate Door With Dual Pivot Hinges
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tailgate assemblies for vehicles do not provide a convenient and safe method for accessing the cargo bed, as they require opening the main tailgate, which can obstruct the user's view and path when entering or loading cargo, and do not allow for easy removal or storage of the door for enhanced accessibility and visibility.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate assembly with a door sub-assembly that pivots about two parallel, vertically extending axes, allowing it to be opened independently for cargo access and subsequently decoupled for storage, utilizing hinge assemblies and fasteners for pivoting and secure removal, and maintaining electrical connectivity for features like cameras and lights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the main tailgate is opened to access the cargo bed, then cargo access is enabled, but the user's view and path are obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate assembly is divided into separate components: a main tailgate and an independent door sub-assembly. The door sub-assembly can be opened independently to provide cargo access without requiring the main tailgate to be opened, thereby maintaining user visibility and clear path while enabling cargo access.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the door sub-assembly is made removable, then accessibility and visibility are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The door sub-assembly incorporates a dynamic hinge system with two pivot axes that allows the door to transition between fixed and removable states. The hinge assembly includes fasteners that can be engaged or disengaged to secure or release the door, providing adaptability for different operational scenarios while managing structural complexity through standardized mechanical components.
3Ease of operation
If the door sub-assembly pivots about two parallel axes, then independent opening is enabled, but the hinge assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: a first hinge mechanism for pivoting about the first vertical axis, a second hinge mechanism for pivoting about the second parallel vertical axis, and fastening mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, enabling independent door opening while managing overall assembly complexity through modular design.
Data Source
AI summary
A tailgate assembly includes, among other things, a frame sub-assembly that includes a driver side section, a passenger side section, and a sill coupling the driver side section to the passenger side section. A door sub-assembly is disposed between the driver side section and the passenger side section. The door sub-assembly and the frame sub-assembly are pivotable together about a first axis between a tailgate closed position and a tailgate open position. The door sub-assembly is pivotable relative to the frame sub-assembly about a first door axis between a door closed position and a door open position. The door sub-assembly is pivotable relative to the frame sub-assembly about a second door axis that is different than the first door axis.