Deployable Tailgate Stairgate With Stress Sensing for Cargo Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing vehicle cargo spaces, especially in pickup trucks, can be challenging due to the height of the cargo bed, and existing solutions do not provide adequate assistance for safe and easy access, particularly when the tailgate is open.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a deployable ladder system with adjustable sections and a strain gauge, along with a control module for alerts, and a light module for illumination, into the tailgate structure, which can also include a pivoting carrier plate assembly for angular adjustments, and a deployable step system mounted to a hitch tube for additional access points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a deployable ladder system is integrated into the tailgate structure, then access to the cargo bed is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder system is integrated into the tailgate structure by merging the ladder components with the tailgate assembly. The main stair section and adjustable stair section are structurally combined with the tailgate, allowing the ladder to deploy from within the tailgate housing. This integration reduces the need for separate mounting structures and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The tailgate structure serves multiple functions: it acts as both the closure for the cargo bed and as the housing for the deployable ladder system. The tailgate panel incorporates storage cavities for the ladder sections when not in use, and provides the structural framework for ladder deployment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated ladder mounting structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable stair section is added to the ladder, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder includes an adjustable stair section that can pivot between different positions relative to the main stair section. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the ladder to adapt to various deployment scenarios and ground conditions. The pivotable connection enables the adjustable section to be positioned at different angles while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder is divided into distinct sections: a main stair section and an adjustable stair section with a base section. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each section while maintaining overall ladder functionality. The modular design enables the adjustable section to be repositioned without affecting the main structural components.
3Reliability
If safety features such as strain gauges and light modules are integrated, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Strain gauges are integrated into the ladder structure to provide real-time feedback on the mechanical load being applied. The control module receives signals from the strain gauges and can trigger alerts when predetermined safety thresholds are exceeded. This feedback mechanism enables continuous monitoring of ladder usage safety without requiring complex manual inspection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic safety monitoring through strain gauges and control modules that independently assess ladder safety conditions. The system self-monitors its own structural integrity and provides automated alerts when safety thresholds are exceeded, eliminating the need for manual safety checks by users.
4Ease of operation
If the ladder is deployed from the tailgate structure, then access ease is improved, but the loss of time for deployment occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder sections are pre-positioned within storage cavities in the tailgate structure, ready for deployment. The main stair section and adjustable stair section are stored in predetermined positions within the tailgate housing, allowing for rapid extraction and deployment without requiring assembly or complex preparation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder sections are nested within the tailgate structure, with the adjustable stair section stored within or alongside the main stair section. This nested arrangement allows compact storage while enabling quick deployment by simply extracting the sections from their housing in the tailgate.
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 safe, easy, and flexible access to the cargo bed by deploying a ladder or step system that can be adjusted in position and illuminated, with alerts for stress thresholds and user guidance, enhancing usability and safety during loading and unloading.
Implementation Method 1
a strain gauge and a control module are operably connected. The control module is programmed to command an alert in response to a signal from the strain gauge indicating that an amount of stress on the deployable ladder exceeds a predefined threshold.
Implementation Method 2
a light module is mounted within an internal cavity of the tailgate structure and is configured for illuminating a step of the deployable ladder.
Implementation Method 3
the step includes a long persistence phosphor coating.
Data Source
AI summary
Various vehicle systems are proposed for accessing and utilizing vehicle cargo spaces on vehicles equipped with a tailgate assembly. The vehicle systems may include deployable and/or rotatable stairgate systems, deployable step systems, etc. designed for the accessing the vehicle cargo spaces. The proposed systems may include various deployment mechanisms that enable the stairgate/step systems to slide, pivot, rotate, swing, and/or otherwise adjust for providing ease of access and increased flexibility when stepping up to access the vehicle cargo space.