Dropdown Tailgate Cargo System with Sliding Grooves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo-securing devices for automotive vehicles often interfere with other vehicle features, such as trailer hitches or obstruct access to cargo spaces, and lack effective load-bearing support for securing bicycles or cargo on dropdown tailgates.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates elongated grooves and securing members with attachment mechanisms into the tailgate structure, allowing for adjustable and secure attachment of cargo and bicycles, while maintaining access to trailer hitches and providing load-bearing support through complementary cross-sectional shapes and fastening mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cargo-securing devices are added to the tailgate, then cargo securing capability is improved, but interference with trailer hitch and access to cargo space worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo securing system is segmented into multiple independent components: anchors mounted on the tailgate, elongated frame members that can be positioned independently, and securing members that attach cargo to the frame. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function without interfering with trailer hitch access or cargo space, as elements can be independently positioned and configured.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the third dimension by mounting anchors on the rear surface of the tailgate and extending frame members outward, rather than placing securing elements on the flat tailgate surface. This vertical and depth-based arrangement allows cargo to be secured without obstructing the horizontal access path to the cargo space or the trailer hitch receiver.
2Reliability
If cargo-securing devices are added to the tailgate, then cargo securing capability is improved, but interference with trailer hitch worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the cargo securing function from the trailer hitch function by using distinct mounting locations. Anchors are mounted on the tailgate body while frame members extend outward to secure cargo, leaving the trailer hitch receiver area clear and accessible for its intended purpose.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongated frame members act as intermediaries between the tailgate-mounted anchors and the cargo. This intermediary structure allows cargo to be secured at a distance from the tailgate, preventing direct interference with trailer hitch access while maintaining secure attachment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If securing members are made adjustable to fit different cargo, then versatility is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The elongated frame members are designed to be dynamically positionable along the anchors, allowing the system to adapt to different cargo sizes and configurations. The frame members can be slid to various positions and secured at multiple locations, providing versatility without requiring multiple different hardware components.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchors and frame members are designed as universal components that can work together in multiple configurations. The same anchor and frame member can accommodate different types of cargo (bicycles, kayaks, boxes) by simply adjusting the position and attachment points, eliminating the need for cargo-specific hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
Various disclosed embodiments include systems for securing cargo to a dropdown tailgate of an automotive vehicle, systems for securing a bicycle to a dropdown tailgate of an automotive vehicle, and systems for securing cargo to a tailgate of an automotive vehicle. In an illustrative embodiment, a system for securing cargo to a dropdown tailgate of an automotive vehicle includes: a dropdown tailgate including a first elongated groove running along an inner panel of the dropdown tailgate; a first securing member, the first securing member including a first elongated arm; the first securing member being configured to be inserted into the first elongated groove, the received portion of the first securing member being slidingly moveable to a selectable position in the first elongated groove; and a first attachment mechanism, the first attachment mechanism being configured to secure the securing member to the first elongated groove.