Tonneau Cover Wireless Switch Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tonneau cover devices require users to return to the vehicle to operate a switch inside the vehicle to move the tonneau cover between storage and extension positions, making it inconvenient for users when accessing or securing the cargo compartment.
Innovation Solution
A tonneau cover device with a switch operable from outside the vehicle, using wireless communication with an electronic key to control the tonneau cover's movement between extension and storage positions, allowing users to control the tonneau cover without needing to re-enter the vehicle, and integrating door locking/unlocking functionality with tonneau cover control using a single switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a switch inside the vehicle is used to control the tonneau cover, then the tonneau cover can be moved between storage and extension positions, but the user must return to the vehicle to operate the switch, reducing convenience
Solution Approach 1:
A wireless communication intermediary (electronic key with transmitter and vehicle control unit with receiver) is introduced to transmit control signals between the user's handheld device and the vehicle's tonneau cover system, enabling remote operation without physical entry into the vehicle
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system requiring physical presence at an interior switch is replaced with an electronic wireless communication system that transmits control signals through radio frequency between the electronic key and vehicle control unit
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate switches are provided for door locking and tonneau cover control, then each function can be controlled independently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic key and vehicle control unit are designed to perform multiple functions: door locking/unlocking and tonneau cover control, allowing a single switch to execute different operations based on the push pattern (single push vs. double push)
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically responds to different user inputs (single push or double push patterns) by executing different functions (door locking or tonneau cover control), providing adaptability without requiring separate physical switches
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
Enhances user convenience by allowing remote operation of the tonneau cover, simplifies the device structure by combining switch functions for door locking/unlocking and tonneau cover control, and reduces the need for additional switches.
Implementation Method 1
the verification control unit transmits a request signal to an electronic key carried by a user through wireless communication
Data Source
AI summary
A tonneau cover device electrically moves a tonneau cover between an extension position, at which the tonneau cover conceals a cargo compartment of a vehicle, and a storage position, at which the tonneau cover is separated from the cargo compartment. The tonneau cover device includes a switch, which is operated from outside the vehicle, and a tonneau cover control unit, which moves the tonneau cover between the extension position and the storage position when the switch is operated.