Adjustable Tailgate Strap With Cam Buckle for Cargo Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tailgate adjustment straps for pickup trucks do not allow for adjustable positions between fully open and fully closed, often requiring additional fasteners to secure larger items, which can lead to sliding issues and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate adjustment strap system comprising a base belt with a tailgate latch connector and a cam buckle that allows for adjustable positioning of the tailgate without additional fasteners, using a cam buckle and strike connector for secure attachment to the truck bed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the tailgate is moved to the open position to accommodate larger items, then additional space is provided, but the item is not retained by the inner side of the tailgate door and may slide out
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment strap acts as an intermediary component between the tailgate and the truck bed, providing a mechanical connection that retains items. The strap connects to the tailgate latch mechanism and extends to the truck bed, creating a reliable retention system that allows the tailgate to remain open while preventing items from sliding out.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment strap incorporates a cam buckle mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the tailgate position. The cam buckle enables the user to set the tailgate at various angles between fully open and fully closed positions, providing flexibility in space configuration while maintaining secure item retention through the strap's tensioning capability.
2Reliability
If additional fastening means are used to secure items in the truck bed, then item retention is improved, but the device complexity and requirement for additional fasteners increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment strap serves multiple functions: it acts as both a tailgate positioning mechanism and an item retention system. By integrating these two functions into a single component, the invention eliminates the need for separate fasteners while maintaining reliable item retention. The strap's dual functionality reduces device complexity and the number of parts required.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the tailgate adjustment function and the item securing function into a single integrated system. The adjustment strap simultaneously controls tailgate position and provides retention for items in the truck bed, merging two previously separate functions into one unified solution that reduces complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If items are leaned atop the upper edge of the tailgate when closed, then space is utilized, but additional fasteners are still required and the finish on the tailgate may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment strap utilizes a flexible belt structure that can be tensioned to secure items without rigid contact with the tailgate surface. The flexible nature of the strap allows it to conform and apply distributed pressure rather than concentrated force, preventing damage to the tailgate finish while effectively retaining items.
Data Source
AI summary
A tailgate adjustment strap that allows a user to adjust the tailgate of a truck between a fully open and a fully closed position. The tailgate latch connector is secured to the base belt via a loop sewn into the first end of the base belt. The striker connector extends outwardly from one end of the cam buckle and includes a plate having a central aperture which varies in diameter. The striker is an elongated rod extending inwardly toward a middle of the truck bed from its attachment point to the inner side panel of the truck bed. A disc is disposed on an end of the striker and has a greater diameter than the central aperture to prevent the striker connector from disconnecting from the striker.