Tailgate Panel Storage Apparatus for Exterior Cargo
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles face challenges in maximizing cargo space without increasing vehicle size, weight, and emissions, while also avoiding interior contamination from dirty or wet cargo.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus that deploys from the tailgate of a vehicle to form a storage space at least partially outside the vehicle, utilizing panels that move between stowed and deployed positions to create a rigid storage structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If cargo storage space is increased by expanding vehicle trunk size, then cargo capacity is improved, but vehicle weight and emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into two segments: a fixed interior storage compartment and a movable exterior storage apparatus that can be deployed from the tailgate. This segmentation allows cargo capacity to be increased without permanently increasing vehicle weight, as the exterior storage is only deployed when needed for additional cargo.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage apparatus transitions from a static vehicle interior configuration to a dynamic system where the exterior storage component can be deployed and retracted. The movable apparatus is configured to extend outward from the tailgate when additional storage is needed and retract when not in use, providing on-demand cargo capacity without permanent weight penalty.
2Volume of moving object
If cargo storage space is increased by expanding vehicle trunk size, then cargo capacity is improved, but vehicle aerodynamics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The storage apparatus dynamically adjusts its configuration based on cargo needs. When retracted, the vehicle maintains its original aerodynamic profile. When deployed, the exterior storage extends outward to provide additional cargo capacity. This dynamic adjustment minimizes aerodynamic drag during normal driving while providing expanded storage when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system separates interior fixed storage from exterior deployable storage. This segmentation allows the vehicle to maintain its streamlined aerodynamic shape during normal operation while providing the option to extend storage capacity outward from the tailgate when additional cargo space is needed, rather than permanently enlarging the vehicle body.
3Volume of moving object
If storage space is created inside the vehicle, then cargo capacity is improved, but interior contamination from dirty or wet cargo increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the storage function from the protected vehicle interior and relocates it to an exterior apparatus that can be deployed from the tailgate. This extraction allows dirty or wet cargo to be stored outside the vehicle, preventing contamination of the interior while still providing accessible storage space. The movable apparatus is specifically configured to hold cargo that would be inappropriate for interior storage.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus can include a panel. The panel can couple with a tailgate of a vehicle. The panel can be configured to move from a first position relative to the tailgate to a second position to form a storage space. The storage space can be at least partially outside the vehicle.