Tailgate Protector With Spaced Protrusions For Load Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tailgate protectors do not provide a convenient method for securing transported material, leading to sliding and potential damage during transportation, requiring additional securing implements that can fail and cause unsafe situations.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate protector with a plurality of spaced protrusions that extend above the upper edge of a closed tailgate, allowing material to be placed between them to restrict side-to-side movement, eliminating the need for additional securing implements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional tailgate protectors with flat surfaces are used, then the tailgate edge is protected from damage, but the transported material slides side to side during transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate protector incorporates protrusions at specific locations along its length, creating localized contact points that restrict material movement. These protrusions are strategically positioned to provide securing functionality only where needed, while the rest of the protector surface maintains its protective function.
Solution Approach 2:
The protector surface is segmented into multiple protrusions rather than being a continuous flat surface. This segmentation creates discrete material contact points that effectively restrict side-to-side movement while maintaining the overall protective function of the tailgate edge.
2Reliability
If additional securing implements such as rope, twine, straps, or bungee cords are used to prevent material sliding, then material securing is improved, but the device complexity and potential for failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate protector combines two functions into a single device: edge protection and material securing. The protrusions on the protector serve dual purposes by both protecting the tailgate edge from damage and restricting material movement, eliminating the need for separate securing implements.
Solution Approach 2:
The tailgate protector is self-sufficient in providing both protection and securing functions. The protrusions inherently restrict material movement through their geometric configuration, requiring no additional components, knots, or fastening mechanisms that could fail or require maintenance.
3Productivity
If material is left unsecured on the tailgate edge, then loading time is reduced, but material sliding causes dangerous situations and potential damage to vehicle components
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate protector is pre-installed with protrusions positioned to automatically restrict material movement as soon as the material is placed on the tailgate edge. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for post-loading securing actions, maintaining high loading speed while preventing sliding damage.
Data Source
AI summary
A tailgate protector (1) having a structural frame (3) combined with a plurality of spaced protrusions (2). The structural frame (3) is sized and shaped to mount to the upper edge of a closed vehicle tailgate, such that the protrusions (2) perpendicularly extend above the upper edge of the tailgate. Material being transported by the vehicle and supported by the tailgate upper edge is placed on the structural frame (3) within the spacings between the protrusions (2). The structural frame (3) acts to protect the surface of the tailgate edge, while the protrusions (2) restrict the side to side movement of the transported material. Thus, the tailgate protector (1) effectively provides a quick and convenient means for securing the transported material while protecting the tailgate edge.