Tailgate Hitch Interference Detection for Collision Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
The automated lowering and raising of modern pickup truck tailgates can lead to interference and damage when the lower step portion collides with components attached to the hitch receiver, such as hitch balls or trailers, due to the lack of effective detection and mitigation systems.
Innovation Solution
A system that integrates detection sensors, such as RFID, ultrasonic, or optical sensors, with the vehicle's control system to detect potential interference conditions and prevent the tailgate from lowering into the hitch receiver, using existing truck components and a hitch cover plug insert to mitigate collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automated lowering mechanism is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to collision risk with hitch components
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of hitch components before the tailgate lowering operation commences. Sensors detect the presence of hitch balls, trailers, or other components in the potential path of the tailgate, and the system prevents activation of the automated lowering mechanism when obstructions are detected, thereby avoiding collisions before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the environment around the tailgate using sensors that detect hitch components. This feedback information is processed by the control system to determine whether the automated lowering operation should proceed or be prevented, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to real-time conditions.
2Ease of operation
If step-up design is added to tailgate, then ease of operation is improved for user access, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate is divided into multiple segments: the main tailgate panel and one or more step-up portions that can be independently positioned. The step-up portions can be raised or lowered separately from the main tailgate, allowing users to access the bed more easily while maintaining the structural integrity and control of the overall tailgate system.
3Reliability
If detection sensors are integrated, then reliability is improved by preventing collisions, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to detect multiple types of hitch components including hitch balls, trailers, and other equipment using the same basic sensor technology. The control system processes various sensor inputs and applies universal prevention logic regardless of the specific component type detected, reducing the need for specialized detection mechanisms for each component type.
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
Prevents damage to tailgates and hitch components by alerting users and automatically preventing the tailgate from lowering into the hitch receiver, ensuring safe operation and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
A detection and mitigation system is provided for interference between a tailgate of a vehicle and a component inserted within a hitch receiver of the vehicle. A detector is configured to detect or sense a potential interference condition
Implementation Method 2
A system that integrates detection sensors, such as RFID, ultrasonic, or optical sensors, with the vehicle's control system to detect potential interference conditions
Implementation Method 3
A transmitter operably connected to or integral with the detector is configured to transmit or communicate to a signal receiver that a potential interference condition exists
Implementation Method 4
A system that integrates detection sensors, such as RFID, ultrasonic, or optical sensors, with the vehicle's control system
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a detection and mitigation system to detect potential interference conditions of a potential interference condition between a tailgate or rear gate and a component attached to the hitch receiver of the vehicle.