Tailgate Cable Connector Assembly With Integrated Bottle Opener
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle users often forget to carry essential tools like bottle openers during outdoor activities, necessitating separate carrying and increasing the complexity of such events.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a bottle opener and article hanging features into vehicle closure member cable devices, specifically tailgate cable connector assemblies, providing convenient and integrated functionalities without additional parts or complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users carry separate tools and convenience items for outdoor activities, then functionality is provided, but user convenience and ease of operation deteriorates due to the need to remember and carry multiple items
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (bottle opener, article hanger, cable connector) into a single integrated accessory bracket assembly that attaches to the vehicle tailgate. This merging eliminates the need for users to carry separate tools, as all functionality is consolidated in one device that is already attached to the vehicle, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory bracket is designed with multiple functional features including a bottle opener with tab and tooth, an article hanger with hook, and a cable connector capability. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace multiple separate tools, providing universal utility for various outdoor activities without requiring users to remember and carry multiple items.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional features are integrated into the cable connector assembly, then versatility and functionality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bottle opener, article hanger, and cable connector functions into a single integrated accessory bracket assembly. By combining these features into one unified structure rather than separate components, the design adds versatility while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity. The integrated approach allows multiple functions to coexist in a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory bracket is designed as a universal multi-functional component that can perform bottle opening, article hanging, and cable connection tasks. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single standardized bracket design with integrated features, avoiding the need for multiple separate devices and thereby limiting the increase in system complexity while maximizing versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
Vehicle closure members are provided that include integrated features for increasing the functionality of the closure member (e.g., a tailgate). A bottle opener feature or an article hanging feature may be integrated as part of a cable connector assembly that connects the closure member to the vehicle body. The integrated feature(s) is therefore conveniently packaged on the vehicle for use during outdoor social gatherings when the closure member is moved to an open position and when the vehicle is in a stationary, non-moving condition.