Integrated Tailgate Light Assembly for Cargo Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tailgates and cargo boxes lack effective illumination solutions, particularly in rearward directions, which can hinder access and visibility during loading and unloading operations, especially in low-light conditions.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle design incorporating a light assembly with a box light and a puddle lamp positioned in the rear portion of the side wall, where the puddle lamp emits light through a light tube or directly when the tailgate is closed, providing illumination to the cargo area and rearward direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a light assembly is added to illuminate the cargo box and rearward area, then visibility and accessibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the box light and puddle lamp into a single integrated light assembly mounted on the side wall. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components, wiring harnesses, and mounting structures needed, thereby improving illumination while minimizing the increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The light assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: the box light illuminates the cargo box interior for loading/unloading operations, while the puddle lamp provides rearward illumination for safety and visibility. This multi-functionality approach achieves comprehensive illumination coverage without requiring separate lighting systems for each function
2Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are used to illuminate both cargo box and rearward area, then illumination coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is segmented into two distinct light sources within a single assembly: a box light directed into the cargo box and a puddle lamp directed rearward. This segmentation allows each light source to be optimized for its specific function while being managed as a unified system, improving coverage without proportionally increasing complexity
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
Enhances visibility and accessibility of the cargo space by ensuring uniform and directed lighting within the cargo box and rearward areas, reducing shadows and improving safety during loading and unloading, while minimizing electronics and complexity in the tailgate.
Implementation Method 1
A light assembly is positioned in a vehicle rear portion of the at least one side wall. A box light is configured to emit light into the box and a puddle lamp is configured to emit light in a vehicle rearward direction.
Implementation Method 2
The tailgate including a light tube and a puddle lamp is configured to emit light in a rearward direction through the light tube when the tailgate is in the closed position.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a cargo box including at least one side wall. A tailgate is coupled to the box and operable between open and closed positions. A light assembly is positioned in a vehicle rear portion of the at least one side wall. A box light is configured to emit light into the box and a puddle lamp is configured to emit light in a vehicle rearward direction.