Swing and Fold Tailgate Mechanism with Universal Hinge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Most tailgates do not combine the ability to fold down like those in pickup trucks with the ability to swing open about a vertical axis like those in sport utility vehicles, limiting user access to the rear of the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A swing and fold down tailgate actioning mechanism featuring dual handles and latches, along with a universal hinge, allowing the tailgate to pivot in both drop-down and swing-open modes by selectively releasing latches and utilizing dual- and single-action cable rods for controlled operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tailgate is designed to fold down like pickup truck tailgates, then ease of access to the bed is improved, but the ability to swing open about a vertical axis is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate is designed with a universal hinge assembly that enables two distinct modes of operation: folding down along a horizontal axis for bed access, and swinging open along a vertical axis for rear access. This multi-functional design allows the single tailgate structure to adapt to different user needs and vehicle types, combining capabilities previously found only in separate tailgate designs
2Ease of operation
If a tailgate is designed to swing open like sport utility vehicle tailgates, then ease of access to the rear is improved, but the ability to fold down is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly incorporates a pivot member with perpendicular axes that enable the tailgate to swing open vertically for rear access while maintaining the capability to fold down horizontally for bed access. This universal design allows the tailgate to function in both configurations without requiring separate mechanisms
3Reliability
If multiple latches are used to secure the tailgate in multiple positions, then reliability of securement is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is divided into three independent latches: a first latch for the folded-down position, a second latch for the closed position, and a third latch for the swing-open position. Each latch operates independently to secure the tailgate in its specific position, providing reliable securement for each mode while maintaining manageable complexity through functional segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
The handle mechanism is designed to dynamically deactivate after releasing its associated latch, preventing accidental release of all latches. The first handle deactivates after releasing the first and second latches, while the second handle deactivates after releasing the second and third latches. This dynamic behavior adapts the system's state based on operational context, enhancing reliability without adding permanent complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a swing and fold down tailgate mechanism which includes an inner panel, a first handle supported by the inner panel operably associated with a first latch and a second latch, a second handle supported by the inner panel operably associated with the first handle and a third latch. The present invention also includes a hinge member operably associated with the first handle and the second handle for providing hinged support of the tailgate such that the tailgate pivots in a drop down direction and alternatively in a swing open direction. When the first handle is actuated, the first and second latch will release and the second handle will be deactivated, allowing the tailgate to pivot using the third latch and hinge. When the second handle is actuated, the second and latch will release and the first handle will be deactivated, allowing the tailgate to pivot about the first latch and hinge.