Tailgate Adapter Plate Layout for Secure Multi-Tool Mounting

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tailgate adapter systems lack the ability to efficiently and securely mount multiple power tools to a vehicle's tailgate module, limiting their utility for on-site heavy-duty work.

Innovation Solution

A tailgate adapter assembly comprising a vehicle tailgate module, adapter plates, and fasteners, which allows for the secure mounting of power tools by utilizing corresponding openings and threaded fasteners, enabling the attachment of various tools to the tailgate module.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing tailgate adapter systems are used, then the tailgate can be equipped with some mounting capability, but they lack the ability to efficiently and securely mount multiple power tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure mounting capabilityVSAvoidmulti-tool mounting capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter plate is designed with multiple sets of openings (first openings for tailgate attachment, second openings for tool mounting) that can accommodate different tool configurations. The offset arrangement of second openings relative to first openings enables versatile mounting of various power tools while maintaining secure attachment to the tailgate module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fasteners and adapter plates are used to mount tools, then tool mounting versatility is improved, but the complexity of the assembly increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool mounting flexibilityVSAvoidadapter assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter plate integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides attachment points for the tailgate module, mounting surfaces for multiple power tools, and structural support for the entire assembly. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts needed while maintaining versatile tool mounting capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12077220B2Tailgate adapter assembly
Publication Date: 2024.09.03 NISSAN MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12077220B2 patent drawing
  • US12077220B2 patent drawing
  • US12077220B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle tailgate adapter assembly includes a vehicle tailgate module, a plurality of first fasteners and an adapter plate. The vehicle tailgate module has a plurality of openings. The adapter plate has a plurality of first openings that correspond to the openings of the tailgate. The first openings and the openings of the tailgate receiving the first fasteners therethrough when the adapter plate is installed to the tailgate. The adapter plate has a plurality of second openings arranged to be offset of the first openings.