Stowable Tailgate Handle Assembly With Pivot Locking Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tailgate handle systems for pick-up trucks lack a secure and efficient mechanism to transition between stowed and operational positions, often interfering with tailgate operation and user support.
Innovation Solution
A handle assembly comprising a guide tube, a movably housed handle, and a pivot assembly with a locking pin that allows the handle to extend and pivot into a support position, secured within the tailgate, featuring a locking mechanism to prevent unwanted pivoting and a release lever for easy retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the handle is extended and made pivotable to support users, then user support capability is improved, but the handle may interfere with tailgate operation and require complex locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly uses spring-loaded latch mechanisms that automatically engage with retainer ridges and strikers to lock the handle in stowed and operational positions. The system self-locks without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems, achieving reliable positioning through automatic mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is divided into functional segments: a grip handle portion, a tip extension with latch mechanism, and a pivot assembly with locking pin. Each segment performs a specific function and can move independently, allowing the handle to transition between stowed, operational, and locked positions while maintaining simplicity in each individual component.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the handle is retracted into the tailgate for storage, then interference with tailgate operation is prevented, but user access to the handle becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed as a dynamic component that can transition between multiple positions: retracted into the tailgate body for storage, extended outward for user access, and pivoted to a perpendicular operational position for support. The spring-loaded latch mechanisms enable smooth transitions between these states, allowing the handle to adapt to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The tip extension acts as an intermediary element between the grip handle and the tailgate body. It includes a spring-loaded latch mechanism that engages with a retainer ridge on the tailgate when retracted, providing automatic locking while maintaining easy user access when extended. This intermediary structure facilitates the transition between stored and accessible states.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent unwanted pivoting, then handle stability is improved, but the mechanism for easy retraction becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses spring-loaded latch members that automatically engage with corresponding strikers on the tailgate when the handle is in the operational position. The springs provide the necessary biasing force for automatic engagement, eliminating the need for additional actuators, motors, or complex control systems to maintain handle stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex actuated locking system, the invention uses simple spring-loaded latch members that passively engage with retainer ridges and strikers. The locking action is achieved through the natural spring force rather than active mechanical or electronic actuation, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A handle assembly is used with a pick-up truck tailgate. The handle assembly comprises a guide tube with an open end, a handle that is housed within the guide tube and a pivot assembly. The pivot assembly comprises a pivot pin connected to one end of the handle and a locking pin. The handle is moveable within the guide tube between a retracted position and an extended position. While in the extended position the handle passes through the open end and the handle may pivot about the pivot pin to move to a support position. When the handle is in the support position, the locking pin can engage the handle and releasably lock the handle in the support position. The guide tube is configured to be secured within a tailgate of a pick-up truck.