Integrated Ramp Truck Tailgate with Nested Folding Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing truck tailgate devices with folding ramps are cumbersome when attempting to open the tailgate for standard use without unfolding the ramp, as they consist of panels of equal width that do not fold within the tailgate, making them unwieldy.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate device with integrated folding ramps, featuring motorized pivots and support cables for automatic operation, allowing the ramps to fold within the tailgate when not in use, and an electric winch and cargo straps for assisted loading and unloading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing folding tailgates with equal width panels are used, then a ramp can be formed, but the device becomes unwieldy and difficult to operate when attempting to open the tailgate for standard use without unfolding the ramp
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is divided into multiple panels of different widths (first ramp panel, second ramp panel, third ramp panel) that can be independently folded and stored within the tailgate body, allowing the tailgate to be opened without the ramp being in the way
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp panels are designed to nest within the ramp cavity of the tailgate body when not in use, with the second ramp panel storing on top of the first ramp panel and the third ramp panel storing on top of the second ramp panel, eliminating the need to unfold the ramp to open the tailgate
2Adaptability or versatility
If a ramp structure is integrated into the tailgate, then loading and unloading capability is provided, but the weight of the tailgate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp panels are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to be folded into a compact configuration within the tailgate body when not in use, providing loading capability only when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp cavity is specifically designed with varying width dimensions to accommodate the different widths of the ramp panels, optimizing the storage space and minimizing the impact on tailgate weight
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
Enables convenient and efficient loading and unloading by allowing the ramps to be stored within the tailgate, maintaining structural integrity while reducing weight, and providing assisted lifting and securing mechanisms for improved usability.
Implementation Method 1
a body proximal edge configured to be pivotably coupled to a bed of a pickup truck
Implementation Method 2
The first ramp panel has a first proximal edge pivotably coupled to the ramp cavity adjacent the body distal edge
Implementation Method 3
The second ramp panel has a second proximal edge pivotably coupled to a first distal edge of the first ramp panel
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated ramp truck tailgate apparatus for convenient loading and offloading includes a tailgate body pivotably coupled to a bed of a pickup truck. The tailgate body has a body inner face with a ramp cavity. A first ramp panel has a first proximal edge pivotably coupled to the ramp cavity adjacent a body distal edge. The first ramp panel moves between a first folded position within the ramp cavity and a first extended position extending from the body distal edge towards the ground. A second ramp panel has a second proximal edge pivotably coupled to a first distal edge of the first ramp panel. The second ramp panel moves between a second folded position on top of the first ramp panel within the ramp cavity and a second extended position extending coplanar from the first ramp panel in the first extended position to the ground.