Integrated Tonneau Cover Automation for Tailgate Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle tonneau covers and caps lack integrated control systems that allow for seamless communication and automation of cover movements in response to vehicle operations and environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
The development of a cover system that integrates with vehicle control modules, allowing for communication of signals to control the position and movement of tonneau covers and caps, including features like automatic opening and closing based on tailgate position, vehicle speed, and precipitation detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cover system is integrated with vehicle control modules to enable automated operations, then convenience and functionality are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cover control system with the vehicle's existing control modules (BCM, PCM, body controller) to create an integrated system. The cover actuator, position sensors, and control logic are merged into the vehicle's electrical architecture, allowing the cover to be controlled through the vehicle's existing buttons, switches, and communication protocols without requiring a completely separate control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated control system enables the cover to perform multiple functions beyond simple opening and closing. The system can detect cover position, control tailgate operations in coordination with the cover, provide diagnostic information, and integrate with various vehicle modes (accessory, run, crank). This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated control architecture that handles diverse operations.
2Extent of automation
If control systems are integrated to enable communication between cover and vehicle modules, then automation capability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into discrete functional modules: cover actuators, position sensors, control modules (BCM, PCM), and communication interfaces. Each module can be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled into the complete integrated system. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing processes and simplifies quality control while maintaining the benefits of integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses standardized communication protocols and interfaces as intermediaries between the cover control system and vehicle control modules. These intermediaries (communication buses, standardized connectors, protocol layers) enable different manufacturers' components to work together, simplifying the manufacturing and integration process while maintaining full automation capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cover system includes integrated control and communication features, then functionality and security are enhanced, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated control system provides multiple functions through a single architecture: automated cover operation, tailgate coordination, position monitoring, diagnostic capabilities, and integration with vehicle access systems. By consolidating these functions into one system rather than using separate dedicated systems, the patent reduces overall complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover system includes self-diagnostic capabilities and self-reporting features that allow it to communicate its status and health to the vehicle's diagnostic systems. The system can detect issues with actuators, sensors, or communication links and report them through existing vehicle diagnostic protocols, reducing the need for separate monitoring systems and simplifying the overall architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a tonneau cover and a tailgate of a vehicle, including: transmitting one or more signals to a first control module to open or lower the tailgate; determining a position of the tonneau cover with the first control module or a second control module and transmitting by the first control module and/or the second control module one or more signals to a mechanism associated with the tonneau cover to open the tonneau cover if the tonneau cover is determined by the first control module and/or the second control module to be in a closed position; and then lowering the tailgate.