Tailgate Lock Plate Assembly for Automated Refuse Vehicle Latching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refuse collection vehicles face challenges with complex and labor-intensive manual locking mechanisms for tailgates, which are prone to failure and pose safety risks, necessitating an automated and efficient locking system that minimizes user interaction.
Innovation Solution
An automated locking mechanism utilizing existing tailgate actuator mechanisms, incorporating a locking assembly with a guideblock, lock plate, and actuator to ensure positive locking of the tailgate without adding complexity, using components like a clevis and capture pin to secure the tailgate in a locked position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual locking mechanisms are used, then the tailgate can be locked, but labor requirements increase and safety risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system automatically engages and disengages the lock plate using the actuator mechanism, eliminating the need for manual operation. The lock plate is drawn into the locked position automatically when the actuator moves to the retracted state, and the system self-locks without human intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged with the existing actuator mechanism that controls tailgate movement. The same actuator that opens and closes the tailgate also drives the lock plate to engage and disengage the locking hook, combining two functions into one mechanism
2Reliability
If complex locking structures with several interrelated components are used, then positive locking can be achieved, but system complexity and failure potential increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into distinct functional elements: the lock plate with locking hook, the guideblock with guide slot, the actuator mechanism, and the tailgate connection. Each component has a specific function and can be independently analyzed, maintained, and replaced, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining positive locking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate mechanism from the tailgate structure itself. The lock plate and guideblock form an independent locking subsystem that interfaces with the tailgate through the actuator, allowing the locking mechanism to be designed and maintained separately from the tailgate assembly
3Reliability
If manual locking mechanisms are used, then the tailgate can be secured, but operator safety is compromised due to interaction with mechanical systems
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system operates automatically without requiring the operator to manually manipulate locking components. The actuator-driven lock plate engages and disengages the locking hook automatically during tailgate opening and closing operations, eliminating operator exposure to moving mechanical parts
Solution Approach 2:
The lock plate is positioned and prepared for engagement before the tailgate reaches the closed position. The actuator begins moving the lock plate into the locked position in advance, ensuring the locking mechanism is ready before the tailgate completes its movement, preventing sudden releases or malfunctions during operator proximity
Data Source
AI summary
A locking assembly can achieve positive locking of a tailgate, by including a guideblock having a guide slot defined therein, a lockplate configured to be slidably received within the guide slot, and a clevis that is configured to operatively cooperate with the lockplate. A locking hook formed in the lockplate will capture a pin in the clevis to achieve the desired locking capabilities. A capture pin is removably coupled to the guideblock and positioned within a containment in the lockplate to control travel. An actuator is coupled at one end to a portion of the vehicle and at the other end to the lockplate in a manner to cause movement of the lockplate and subsequent movement of the tailgate in an opening direction. The actuator is further configured to cause the tailgate to move in a closing direction until reaching a closed position and then moving the lockplate from an unlocked position to a locked position, thus causing the locking hook to capture the pin in the clevis and further causing the tailgate to be positively locked.