Tailgate Ramp Latch Attachment Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle tailgate ramp systems lack stability and ease of use, particularly when loading and unloading wheeled vehicles, as they can be prone to displacement due to reactionary forces and require complex mechanisms for secure attachment.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate apparatus comprising a base with attachment members that secure into the vehicle's latch mechanism, a ramp irremovably attached to the base, and adjustable features such as a sliding support member and adjustable cable for enhanced stability and ease of use, allowing the ramp to be securely positioned and adjusted for various vehicle models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple ramp structure is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but stability and resistance to displacement worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system is divided into distinct functional segments: the ramp surface, the base structure, the attachment members that interface with the latch, and the cable restraint system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall stability without requiring complex integrated manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment members are pre-configured with latch-receiving features that engage with the vehicle's existing latch mechanism before the ramp is fully deployed. The cable restraint system is pre-attached to the base, ready to prevent displacement. These preliminary configurations ensure stability is established from the moment of installation without requiring complex assembly procedures.
2Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is added to prevent displacement, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment members are designed to automatically engage with the vehicle's existing latch mechanism through their specific geometric configuration. The latch portions of the vehicle automatically receive the attachment members when the ramp is positioned correctly, eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms or complex fastening procedures. The cable restraint system similarly provides automatic displacement prevention through its tensioning configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment members serve as intermediaries that bridge the ramp base and the vehicle's existing latch mechanism. Rather than requiring the ramp to directly interface with complex vehicle structures, the attachment members translate the ramp's positioning requirements into latch-compatible geometries, simplifying the overall attachment system while maintaining reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable features are added to accommodate various vehicle models, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment members are designed with universal latch-receiving features that can interface with standard latch mechanisms across different vehicle models. The base structure incorporates adjustable cable restraint systems that can be configured for various ramp lengths and vehicle dimensions. This universality allows a single ramp design to serve multiple vehicle types without requiring model-specific components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable restraint system incorporates adjustable tensioning and positioning capabilities that allow dynamic adaptation to different vehicle-ramp configurations. The cables can be tensioned and positioned to accommodate varying ramp lengths, angles, and vehicle dimensions, providing adaptability without requiring multiple fixed-configuration systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for use with a vehicle tailgate includes a base, a first attachment member, a second attachment member and a ramp. The first attachment member and second attachment member are spaced apart from each other and extend from the base. The ramp is irremovably secured to the base. The attachment members are configured to be received in a latch of the vehicle tailgate.