Truck Tailgate Locking System Single Key Cylinder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tailgate locking systems for pickup trucks often require multiple keys for multiple door handles, lack reliability due to battery dependence in power locks, and fail to securely lock the tailgate and door handles simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A lock assembly with a key cylinder, lock arm, and slider mechanism that moves between locked and unlocked positions, interfering with or allowing operation of door handles based on the key cylinder's configuration, utilizing mechanical stop tabs to prevent slider movement beyond specific positions, allowing single-key operation and manual reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple keys are used for multiple door handles, then each door handle can be independently locked, but the system complexity increases and users must carry multiple keys
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single key cylinder and lock arm mechanism. The lock arm simultaneously controls multiple door handles through mechanical linkage, allowing one key to lock/unlock all handles at once, thereby reducing key quantity and system complexity while maintaining independent locking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single key cylinder and lock arm assembly serves multiple functions: it can lock/unlock all door handles simultaneously, provide secure tailgate locking, and offer manual operation independent of power systems. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate locking mechanisms for each handle
2Ease of operation
If power locks are used, then ease of use is improved via automated operation, but reliability decreases when battery power is dead
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical lock arm and slider mechanism operate autonomously using purely mechanical forces generated by key cylinder rotation. The system requires no external power source, batteries, or electrical components, allowing it to function reliably in all conditions including when vehicle battery is dead. The mechanism serves itself through direct mechanical transmission from key insertion to lock arm movement
3Ease of operation
If a single key is used for all locks, then ease of operation improves, but the ability to independently lock individual handles is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The lock arm is designed with dynamic positioning capability through the slider mechanism that can move along a slot. This allows the lock arm to engage with different door handles at different positions, providing flexible locking options. The system can lock all handles simultaneously or potentially individual handles by positioning the slider appropriately, maintaining adaptability while using a single key
Data Source
AI summary
A lock assembly for use in a vehicle lock, such as on a truck tailgate. The lock assembly includes a single key cylinder which can concurrently control the locked/unlocked state of one or more door handles, thus rendering multiple handles simultaneously locked or unlocked. Such a lock assembly may provide manual control of access to a pickup truck bed, independently of the vehicle battery, thereby permitting the driver access even if the vehicle battery is dead.