Tailgate Storage Compartment With Concealed Latching Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage solutions for pick-up trucks lack secure, conveniently accessible exterior storage compartments that do not interfere with bed volume and have visible or easily jammed latching mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate storage compartment with a latching mechanism located within the tailgate cavity but outside the storage compartment, featuring a compartment door and latch actuator affixed to the tailgate, and a flange that rests on the panel, with a lockable push-button actuator for enhanced security and concealment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bed mounted tool boxes are used to provide secure storage, then security is improved, but bed volume is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage compartment is nested within the tailgate cavity, utilizing the existing tailgate structure as a container. The compartment door and latching mechanism are integrated into the tailgate assembly, allowing secure storage without occupying additional bed volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The tailgate serves multiple functions: it acts as both the closure for the bed and as a housing for the secure storage compartment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate bed-mounted tool boxes that would reduce bed volume.
2Ease of operation
If locks or latches are located in visible places, then ease of operation is improved, but security is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is extracted from the visible exterior surface and relocated to the cavity interior, where it is concealed from external view. The compartment door and latch are positioned within the tailgate cavity, making them invisible when the tailgate is closed, thus maintaining security while preserving ease of operation through the integrated design.
3Reliability
If storage compartment takes up volume in the pick-up box bed, then security is improved, but bed volume is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage compartment is merged with the tailgate structure, combining the functions of bed closure and secure storage into a single integrated assembly. This eliminates the need for separate bed-mounted storage units and utilizes the tailgate cavity space that would otherwise be unused, maintaining full bed volume while providing secure storage.
Data Source
AI summary
A tailgate includes a first panel, a second panel connected to the first panel at a first side and a second side opposite to the first side as well as a cavity defined by the first panel and the second panel. An opening defined by the first panel between the first side and the second side, provides access to the cavity. A storage compartment is positioned in the cavity. A latching mechanism, located within the cavity and outside of the storage compartment, includes a latch, a first latch actuator, and an actuator rod connecting the latch and the latch actuator, which is affixed to the first side of the tailgate. A compartment door, connected to the tailgate and movable between a first and second position, covers the storage compartment in a first position. The compartment door includes a striker, which is engage-able by the latch.