Foldable Tailgate Ramp with Perforated Panel for Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tailgate ramps for commercial vehicles are utilitarian and lack appeal, failing to meet the needs of various users such as tradesmen, ATV users, and homeowners, and do not efficiently facilitate loading and unloading of heavy items or improve gas mileage.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate ramp system comprising an adapter with angled panels and a foldable ramp section that attaches to a truck without requiring modifications, allowing for easy loading and unloading of items and serving as a work surface, while also reducing drag and improving gas mileage by allowing air to pass through.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a traditional solid tailgate is used, then cargo security is maintained, but air flow is blocked causing increased drag and reduced fuel efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate ramp incorporates a mesh or perforated panel structure that allows air to pass through while still providing cargo security. This porous design reduces aerodynamic drag compared to solid tailgates, improving fuel efficiency while maintaining the ability to secure cargo.
2Ease of operation
If heavy items are loaded directly into the truck bed, then loading is straightforward, but physical strain and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate ramp is divided into multiple sections including an adapter portion that attaches to the tailgate and a ramp portion that provides the inclined surface. This segmentation allows the system to function as a complete loading solution while distributing weight and effort more effectively during cargo loading.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp includes foldable or collapsible sections that allow it to be configured in different states - folded against the tailgate for compact storage and extended to provide a loading ramp. This dynamic configuration enables easy deployment and storage while maintaining structural integrity during use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed non-foldable ramp is used, then loading capability is provided, but storage space and versatility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp incorporates foldable sections with hinges or pivot points that allow it to transition between extended and folded positions. When extended, it provides a loading ramp; when folded, it stores compactly against the tailgate, providing both loading capability and space efficiency without requiring complex mechanisms.
4Productivity
If the tailgate ramp is always extended, then loading capability is maximized, but aerodynamic drag increases when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is designed to be dynamically positioned - extended when loading is needed and folded against the tailgate when not in use. This dynamic positioning allows the system to provide full loading capability when required while minimizing aerodynamic drag during normal driving, optimizing both productivity and energy efficiency.
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 system enables easy loading and unloading of heavy items, improves gas mileage by reducing drag, and serves as a versatile work surface, catering to diverse user needs without altering the truck.
Implementation Method 1
The tailgate ramp may improve gas mileage as it is allows air to pass through it thus reducing drag caused by a stock tailgate
Data Source
AI summary
A tailgate ramp for a truck includes an adapter comprising left and right panels with a connector extending therebetween. The connector includes a first end with a slot or opening to engage or slide onto a pivoting receiver located on a truck; and a second opposing end configured to slide into, over, or around a mounting receiver located on the truck. A ramp section includes at least one foldable section that is attachable to the connector.