Vehicle Tailgate and Bed Extender Tensioning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles with load-carrying platforms face challenges in managing the differential behavior between the tailgate and bed extender during travel, leading to increased load on the lock mechanism and weight, which complicates weight reduction efforts.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle with a load-carrying platform featuring a bed extender axially supported by side gates, an elastic band for tensioning between the tailgate and bed extender, and a rotation regulation mechanism using stopper members and an elastic member to prevent excessive movement and reduce weight by distributing loads effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the rigidity of the lock mechanism is increased to handle the increased load, then the reliability of the lock mechanism is improved, but the weight and size of the lock mechanism increase
Solution Approach 1:
An elastic band is introduced as an intermediary element between the tailgate and the bed extender. This elastic band absorbs the differential movement and load variations, allowing the lock mechanism to maintain a lighter design while still ensuring reliable connection. The elastic band acts as a buffer that accommodates the behavioral differences between the tailgate and bed extender during vehicle travel.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the bed extender is fixed to the tailgate, then the load-carrying space is extended effectively, but the differential behavior between tailgate and bed extender increases load on the lock mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the tailgate and bed extender is changed from a rigid fixed connection to a flexible elastic connection. The elastic band allows for dynamic adjustment of the connection parameters, accommodating the differential movement between the tailgate and bed extender while maintaining the extended load-carrying capability. This parameter change transforms the static fixed connection into a dynamic elastic connection that adapts to varying operational conditions.
3Weight of moving object
If the vehicle structure is simplified to reduce weight, then the overall vehicle weight is reduced, but the ability to handle differential behavior between tailgate and bed extender is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic band serves as a lightweight intermediary that effectively manages the differential behavior between the tailgate and bed extender. Instead of using a complex rigid locking system, the elastic band provides a simple yet effective solution that accommodates movement differences while maintaining connection reliability. This intermediary element enables weight reduction without compromising the vehicle's ability to handle operational variations.
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 reduces noise from rattling, minimizes the size and weight of components, and optimizes tension loads, allowing for a more compact and lightweight design while maintaining effective load extension capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic band 36... so a rear portion of the tailgate 13 and a rear portion of the bed extender 20 enter a tensioned state
Implementation Method 2
A regulating cord 42 is provided that regulates the elastic band 36 from stretching beyond a predetermined distance
Implementation Method 3
A rotation regulation mechanism is provided to the tailgate 13 and the bed extender 20 that regulates further rotational movement by the tailgate 13 and the bed extender 20 making contact when the tailgate closes
Data Source
AI summary
In a vehicle with a load-carrying platform, an elastic band is provided so a rear portion of a tailgate and a rear portion of a bed extender enter a tensioned state. A rotation regulation mechanism is provided to the tailgate and the bed extender that regulates further rotational movement by the tailgate and the bed extender making contact when the tailgate is rotated towards a closed position. The bed extender and the tailgate are prevented from rotating in the same direction by the rotation regulation mechanism, and the load on the elastic band is mitigated.