Shape-Memory Cable for Soft Tailgate Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual operation of pickup truck tailgates can result in slamming when opened and requires significant user effort when closed, lacking efficient automated assistance.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a cable made partially or fully of shape-memory material, activated by a controller and current source to provide a 'soft open' feature by resisting opening forces and assisting closure, utilizing heat application through electric current to shape-memory alloys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to open the tailgate, then the structure remains simple, but the tailgate slams when opened and requires significant user effort for closure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical springs and actuators with a shape-memory alloy (SMA) cable that uses thermal-mechanical properties to provide closure assistance. The SMA cable transforms thermal energy from electrical current into mechanical force, eliminating complex mechanical systems while reducing user effort for tailgate closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the temperature-dependent shape memory properties of the SMA cable. By applying electrical current to heat the SMA cable, it transforms from a deformed state to its original shape, generating mechanical force to assist tailgate closure. This parameter change (temperature) enables the cable to provide controlled assistance without complex mechanical components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If no damping mechanism is used, then the structure remains simple, but the tailgate slams when opened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by using the SMA cable to resist the opening force of the tailgate before it can slam. The cable is tensioned to provide a counteracting force that dampens the opening motion, preventing harmful slamming without requiring separate damping mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical dampers or shock absorbers with the thermally-actuated SMA cable. The cable's shape memory effect provides inherent damping by transforming thermal energy into controlled mechanical resistance, eliminating the need for separate damping components.
3Ease of operation
If a powered latch or automated mechanism is used, then opening and closing assistance is provided, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the SMA cable multi-functional by having it simultaneously provide closure assistance, damping during opening, and controlled stopping. This single component performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate mechanical systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The SMA cable is self-actuating through electrical heating, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, springs, or traditional actuators. The cable automatically transforms electrical energy into mechanical force to assist tailgate operation, providing automated assistance with minimal complexity.
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 solution provides a soft opening mechanism that prevents tailgate slamming and reduces user effort for closure, enhancing the operational safety and convenience of tailgate movement between open and closed positions.
Implementation Method 1
At least a portion of the cable includes a shape-memory material... the shape-memory material is configured to return to a rebound shape upon application of heat
Implementation Method 2
The controller is configured to activate the shape-memory material by commanding the current source to direct current through the shape-memory material
Data Source
AI summary
A motor vehicle according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a cargo box, a tailgate moveable relative to the cargo box between an open position and a closed position, and a cable affixed to the cargo box and the tailgate. At least a portion of the cable includes a shape-memory material. Additionally, the motor vehicle includes a controller configured to activate the shape-memory material when the tailgate moves between the open and closed positions. A method is also disclosed.