Tailgate Lift Bracket Assembly Using Single-Screw U-Shaped Consoles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tail lift devices for vehicles are difficult to assemble and require complex alignment and adjustment, especially when attaching to vehicles with different mounting dimensions, and they imperfectly absorb forces and moments during operation.
Innovation Solution
A tail lift device with a simplified assembly system where each console is secured with a single screw connection to a U-shaped screw bracket attached to the support tube, allowing for easy adjustment and secure fastening without complex alignment, using a combination of screw and hook connections to ensure stability and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple screw connections are used to attach brackets to the support tube, then the connection strength and stability are improved, but the assembly complexity and time required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into two distinct functions: the U-shaped screw bracket provides primary structural attachment with single screw connections to the longitudinal beams, while the bracket plates provide secondary support and positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the screw brackets use minimal fasteners for quick installation, while the bracket plates ensure proper alignment and distribution of loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The U-shaped screw bracket acts as an intermediary component between the longitudinal beams and the bracket plates. It transfers loads from the bracket plates to the vehicle chassis while requiring only single screw connections for attachment. This intermediary structure enables the system to achieve high connection strength without requiring multiple screws at each attachment point.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are provided for different mounting dimensions, then the adaptability to various vehicles is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket plates are designed with adjustable positioning features that allow them to be shifted along the support tube to accommodate different mounting dimensions. The U-shaped screw brackets can also be repositioned on the longitudinal beams. This dynamic adjustability enables the same basic structure to adapt to various vehicle configurations without requiring multiple specialized components or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The basic U-shaped screw bracket and bracket plate structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables adjustment to different mounting positions, distributes loads across multiple contact points, and facilitates quick installation and removal. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, maintaining device simplicity while achieving high adaptability to different vehicle types.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the brackets are attached at multiple points along the support tube, then the force distribution and structural stability are improved, but the alignment and adjustment work required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The U-shaped screw brackets are pre-formed with a geometry that naturally conforms to the longitudinal beams, and the bracket plates are pre-positioned on the support tube with alignment features. This preliminary preparation of components allows for rapid installation without requiring complex field alignment or adjustment work. The components are designed to self-align during assembly, maintaining structural stability while simplifying the installation process.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device has two console sheets (24) connectable with a chassis of a vehicle. Screwing consoles (25) are assigned to a strut tube (12). Each console sheet is screwed with the respective screwing console in only one point and/or one side at rear edges, which are viewed in a forward direction (14) of the vehicle. Each screwing console is formed in a U-shape with two parallel brackets (26) that are fastened at the strut tube, and with a bar (27) that extends in a rear side of the strut tube at a distance to the strut tube. The screwing console exhibits a horizontal bearing hole (30). An independent claim is also included for a tailgate lift for a vehicle comprising a lifting gear.