Stowable Tailgate Load Support with Retaining Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support structures for pickup truck tailgates are heavy, bulky, and difficult to set up, limiting their effectiveness in extending the cargo bed space while preventing cargo from falling out.
Innovation Solution
A load support structure integrated into the tailgate, featuring a base with cavities and retaining members that can be switched between stowed and raised configurations, allowing the tailgate to serve as an extended bed surface without obstructing cargo space and preventing items from rolling or sliding out.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing support structures are used to extend cargo bed space, then cargo can be secured and bed space extended, but the structures are heavy and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple components: a base structure integrated into the tailgate, and separate retaining members that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the structure to provide full support functionality while using less material overall, reducing weight compared to monolithic existing solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining members are designed to be movable between stowed and raised configurations, allowing the structure to adapt to different cargo needs. This dynamic capability enables the same structure to serve multiple functions (cargo extension, cargo securing, or stowed flat) without requiring multiple separate components, reducing overall weight.
2Reliability
If existing support structures are used to prevent cargo from falling out, then cargo security is improved, but the structures are difficult and time-consuming to set up
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining members can be quickly positioned between stowed and raised configurations without complex assembly steps. The movable design allows users to deploy the cargo security function in seconds by simply raising the retaining members, compared to time-consuming setup of existing support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure is integrated into the tailgate itself, providing a self-contained foundation that requires no separate installation. The retaining members work with this integrated base to automatically provide cargo security when raised, eliminating the need for complex assembly procedures required by existing solutions.
3Area of stationary object
If the tailgate is folded down to extend bed space, then cargo loading capacity is improved, but cargo may roll or slide out of the bed
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining members are designed to be raised when the tailgate is in the down position to prevent cargo from rolling or sliding out. This dynamic positioning allows the system to adapt to the tailgate configuration, providing cargo containment when needed while maintaining full bed area accessibility when the tailgate is upright.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure integrated into the tailgate serves multiple functions: it provides structural support when the tailgate is upright, and serves as a foundation for the retaining members when the tailgate is down. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to maintain cargo containment capability across different tailgate positions without requiring separate structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A load support structure is provided for a vehicle tailgate. The structure includes a base incorporated into the tailgate, a first retaining member positionable in either of a stowed configuration and a raised configuration within a cavity formed in the base, and a second retaining member positionable in either of a stowed configuration and a raised configuration within a cavity formed in the base.