Tailgate Sensor Pivot Mechanism for Camera Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle-mounted sensors, such as rear view cameras, face orientation issues when the vehicle's tailgate is partially or fully open, leading to reduced functionality and increased complexity with proposed solutions like additional cameras or motorized systems.
Innovation Solution
A sensor adjustment system comprising a stationary bracket, a hinged bracket, and a cable mechanism that automatically pivots the sensor to maintain alignment with the vehicle closure, utilizing gravity and a locking mechanism to stabilize the sensor position, ensuring the sensor remains functional regardless of the tailgate's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed position rear view camera is mounted on the tailgate, then the camera works correctly when the tailgate is closed, but the camera becomes misoriented and non-functional when the tailgate is opened
Solution Approach 1:
The camera mounting system transitions from a fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position. The camera is mounted on a bracket that can pivot relative to the tailgate, allowing it to change its orientation based on the tailgate's position. This dynamic adjustment ensures the camera maintains proper alignment with the vehicle body whether the tailgate is closed, partially open, or fully open.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a sensor to detect the tailgate's position and provides feedback to the control system. Based on this feedback, the control system automatically adjusts the camera's orientation to maintain proper alignment. This closed-loop control ensures the camera remains functional across all tailgate positions without requiring manual intervention.
2Reliability
If a second rear view camera mounted perpendicular to the first is added to handle open tailgate positions, then camera functionality is maintained, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding a second fixed camera, the invention uses a single camera mounted on a dynamically adjustable bracket. The bracket can pivot to different angles, allowing the same camera to serve multiple functions that would otherwise require multiple cameras. This reduces system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable camera bracket enables a single camera to perform multiple functions - it can be oriented to capture rear views when the tailgate is closed, and reoriented to capture appropriate views when the tailgate is open. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cameras for different tailgate positions.
3Extent of automation
If a motor and gears with an electronic system are employed to change camera orientation, then automatic position adjustment is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces complex motorized adjustment mechanisms with a simpler mechanical linkage system. The camera bracket is connected to the tailgate hinge through a linkage that automatically translates the tailgate's rotational movement into corresponding camera orientation changes. This mechanical substitution eliminates motors, gears, and complex electronic control systems while achieving the same automatic adjustment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera adjustment system is self-regulating through its mechanical linkage design. As the tailgate moves to different positions, the linkage automatically positions the camera at the correct angle without requiring external power or control systems. The system uses the tailgate's own movement to drive the camera adjustment, making it self-service and eliminating complex automation components.
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 provides a simple, effective, and aesthetically pleasing solution by maintaining sensor orientation with the vehicle closure, reducing debris entry and minimizing shaking, while maintaining sensor functionality across various tailgate positions.
Implementation Method 1
a cable configured to have a first end engaging the hinge and a second opposed end engaging the hinged bracket such that a pivoting of the closure about the hinge relative to the vehicle causes the sensor to pivot about the sensor pivot axis
Implementation Method 2
a weighted hinged bracket pivotably mounted to the stationary bracket to be pivotable about a sensor pivot axis and configured to orient the weighted hinged bracket based on an orientation relative to a direction of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
A closure on a vehicle with a sensor mounted to the closure that pivots relative to the closure as the closure is opened and closed to maintain a desired orientation of the sensor when the closure is in different positions.