Integrated Tailgate Stake Pocket Design

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pickup trucks require expensive and time-consuming structural modifications to attach accessory devices to the tailgate, which can compromise the structural integrity of the tailgate.

Innovation Solution

The tailgate features internally mounted stake pockets with a channel body and flanges that allow for secure attachment of accessory devices without external modifications, using a strainer between sidewalls and extending orthogonal to the channel, enabling internal mounting of accessories.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If structural modifications are made to the tailgate to attach accessory devices, then accessory mounting capability is improved, but structural integrity of the tailgate deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessory mounting capabilityVSAvoidstructural integrity of the tailgate

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The tailgate is segmented into functional components including a channel body, strainer, and stake pocket assembly. The stake pocket is a separate component that attaches to the tailgate body through the strainer, allowing accessory mounting capability to be added without modifying the main tailgate structure. This segmentation preserves the structural integrity of the tailgate while providing the needed adaptability for accessory attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If structural modifications are made to the tailgate to attach accessory devices, then accessory mounting capability is improved, but manufacturing cost and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessory mounting capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost and time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The stake pocket assembly is pre-assembled with the strainer and channel body before attachment to the tailgate. The strainer is pre-attached to the tailgate body, creating a ready-made mounting structure. This preliminary assembly reduces manufacturing complexity and cost compared to making structural modifications to the tailgate itself, as the stake pocket can be manufactured and attached as a separate component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If holes are drilled or fasteners are welded to the tailgate, then accessory mounting capability is improved, but structural integrity and appearance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessory mounting capabilityVSAvoiddamage to tailgate structure and appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The strainer and stake pocket assembly serve as an intermediary between the tailgate body and the accessory device. Instead of directly drilling holes or welding fasteners to the tailgate, the accessory is mounted to the stake pocket, which is attached to the tailgate through the strainer. This intermediary structure eliminates direct structural modification to the tailgate, preserving both its structural integrity and appearance while still providing secure accessory mounting capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10124837B2Integrated tailgate stake pocket

Publication Date: 2018.11.13 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC

AI summary

A tailgate pivotally mountable to a vehicle includes a tailgate body comprising first and second sidewalls, and a strainer disposed between the first and second walls and extending in a longitudinal orientation. The tailgate further includes a stake pocket disposed between the first and second sidewalls and extending substantially orthogonal to the strainer. The stake pocket includes a channel body defining an interior channel.