Segmented Extruded Tailgate with Adjustable Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle tailgates lack a robust and efficient mechanism to securely position and latch extruded sections, which can lead to instability and potential cargo shifting or falling during transport.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle tailgate design featuring a longitudinally extending chain of extruded sections secured by hinges that rotate about horizontal axes, with adjustable latching mechanisms to secure sections in either longitudinally aligned or substantially perpendicular positions, enhancing stability and preventing cargo movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional solid tailgate is used, then the structure is simple, but the cargo bed access is limited and cargo securing capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate is divided into multiple extruded sections (typically three) that can be independently positioned and secured. Each section can be adjusted to different angles and positions, allowing flexible access to the cargo bed while maintaining structural integrity through the segmented design.
2Ease of operation
If extruded sections are made adjustable for flexible positioning, then cargo access is improved, but the latching mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism incorporates a movable latch member that can be actuated to engage or disengage from the orifice in the adjacent section. This dynamic element allows the sections to be easily adjusted between different positions (aligned, perpendicular, or intermediate angles) while maintaining secure attachment when latched, balancing operational flexibility with structural stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If sections are securely latched in fixed positions, then stability is improved, but the ability to adjust for different cargo configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate's segmented extruded sections can be independently positioned at various angles relative to each other, allowing the structure to adapt to different cargo configurations. When latched, each section maintains its position stably, yet the overall system remains flexible enough to be reconfigured for different cargo types and sizes.
4Ease of operation
If the tailgate uses multiple extruded sections with hinges, then cargo bed access is enhanced, but the risk of section misalignment and cargo shifting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch member acts as an intermediary element that connects adjacent extruded sections. When engaged, it mediates the connection between sections by securing them relative to each other through the orifice, preventing misalignment and cargo shifting while still allowing the sections to be positioned at different angles for improved cargo bed access.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a bed and a tailgate. The bed has first and second side panels. The tailgate is rotatably secured to the bed along a horizontal axis and has a plurality of extruded sections that are arranged in a longitudinally extending chain. Each section extends laterally between the first and second side panels. Adjacent sections are secured to each other via hinges that rotate about axes that are substantially parallel to the horizontal axis.