Multi-purpose Tailgate With Deployable Pivotable Section
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pickup truck tailgates lack a mechanism to efficiently manage aerodynamic drag and cargo security, especially when carrying long items, and do not offer versatile storage solutions like deployable seats.
Innovation Solution
A multi-purpose tailgate with a pivotable section that can retract into the tailgate to reduce drag when closed and deploy as a cargo stop and aerodynamic aid, and also convert into deployable seats, using a latching mechanism, motor, sensors, and spring-assisted deployment, with reflective elements for visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tailgate is closed to retain cargo, then cargo security is improved, but aerodynamic drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate is divided into a fixed portion and a pivotable section. The pivotable section can be deployed outward to create an aerodynamic fairing that reduces drag, while the fixed portion maintains cargo retention. This segmentation allows the tailgate to simultaneously provide cargo security and aerodynamic efficiency in different operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable section of the tailgate is designed to be dynamically deployable and retractable. When deployed, it extends outward to reduce aerodynamic drag by smoothing airflow. When retracted, it maintains a compact profile for cargo retention. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements.
2Length of stationary object
If the storage compartment length is increased to accommodate long cargo, then cargo capacity is improved, but vehicle stability and aerodynamics worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable section adds a dimensional element by deploying outward from the tailgate plane. This creates a three-dimensional aerodynamic fairing that extends beyond the standard tailgate boundary, allowing the system to reduce drag without increasing the base storage compartment length. The deployed section effectively creates a virtual extension that manages airflow around long cargo.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a pivotable section is added to the tailgate to reduce drag and provide cargo stop functionality, then aerodynamic performance and cargo security are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable section is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as an aerodynamic fairing to reduce drag, serves as a cargo stop for long items, and can be integrated with seating functionality. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing several benefits from a single structural addition rather than requiring separate components for each function.
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
The solution reduces aerodynamic drag, securely holds long cargo, and provides on-demand seating, enhancing both performance and utility of the vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to urge the pivotable section to deploy out of the tailgate
Implementation Method 2
The pivotable section may include a reflector configured to reflect a beam of light for signaling operators of other vehicles
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a vehicle body and a storage compartment defined by the vehicle body and having a storage compartment length. The vehicle also includes a tailgate operatively connected to the vehicle body and configured to selectively expand and restrict access to the storage compartment. The vehicle additionally includes a pivotable section configured to selectively retract into and deploy out of the tailgate. In the state when the pivotable section is deployed out of the tailgate and when the tailgate restricts access to the storage compartment, the pivotable section operates to reduce aerodynamic drag on the vehicle body. Also, when the pivotable section is deployed out of the tailgate and when the tailgate expands access to the storage compartment, the pivotable section operates as a stop for cargo having a cargo length greater than the storage compartment length.