Collapsible Tailgate Cargo Box Extension for Flexible Load Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Off-road vehicles lack flexibility in cargo area arrangements, as existing solutions require transporting or storing cargo box extenders when not in use, occupying valuable space and complicating cargo handling.
Innovation Solution
A cargo box extension assembly that includes a center panel and pivotally connected left and right panels, which can be selectively extended or collapsed, allowing tool-less installation and removal, and is designed to fit partially into the tailgate recess when collapsed, maintaining cargo access and storage efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a cargo box extender is installed to provide additional cargo space, then cargo area is increased, but the complexity of installation and removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo box extender is divided into multiple separable panels (left panel, right panel, and rear panel) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each panel connects through simple pivot joints and latch mechanisms, allowing the extender to be broken down into manageable segments for easy installation and removal. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex tools or procedures, resolving the contradiction between providing extended cargo capacity and maintaining simple installation/removal operations.
2Volume of moving object
If a cargo box extender is used to increase cargo space, then cargo area is increased, but the flexibility in cargo area arrangements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo box extender employs dynamic, movable panels with pivot joints that allow the structure to transition between different configurations. The left and right panels can pivot between extended and retracted positions, while the rear panel can be adjusted to create different cargo space geometries. This dynamic design enables the extender to adapt to various cargo sizes and shapes, resolving the contradiction between providing increased cargo capacity and maintaining flexibility in cargo area arrangements.
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 assembly provides increased cargo space without occupying additional space when not in use, allowing for flexible cargo handling and easy installation/removal, enhancing the utility of off-road vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
The two cooperating hinge components are shaped to allow separation (or insertion) at a pre-determined angle
Implementation Method 2
The assembly includes a center panel extending laterally across the opened tailgate, as well as left and right panels pivotally connected to the center panel
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo box extension assembly for a cargo box of a vehicle and method of operating the extension assembly. The assembly includes a center panel configured and arranged for pivotally connecting to a front surface of a tailgate of the cargo box; a left panel; and a right panel, each of the left and right panels being rotatable between an open position and a closed position where the left and right panels are aligned with each other, when the cargo box extension assembly is installed on the tailgate of the vehicle and the center panel is pivotally connected to the front surface of the tailgate: the cargo box extension assembly being selectively movable between a collapsed position and an extended position; in the collapsed position, the cargo box extension assembly being at least partially received in a recess of the tailgate.