Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a field of tailgate operation systems for
passenger cars. More specifically the system addresses challenges associated with
the conventional manual methods of initiating and controlling the opening and
closing of tailgate lids. The system described herein introduces a magnetic and
energized coil set-up to automate and improve the process, ultimately enhancing
user convenience, safety, and the overall experience of utilizing passenger cars.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The conventional approach to operating passenger car tailgate lids
necessitates individuals to exert physical effort when initiating the opening and
closing processes. This effort is required until the tailgate lid reaches a specific
angle where the differential gas force within the gas spring, combined with the
weight of the tailgate lid, allows it to continue its motion independently, both
when opening and closing.
[0003] However, with the introduction of a proposed invention, this cumbersome
manual effort has been rendered obsolete. The proposed configuration employs
a magnetic and energized coil system that generates push and pulls forces,
effectively taking over the task of initiating the tailgate's movement. This
breakthrough eliminates the need for manual intervention in the initial phases of
opening and closing the tailgate lid, greatly enhancing user convenience and ease
of operation. The result is a more user-friendly and efficient tailgate system that
enhances the overall experience of using passenger cars.
[0004] The existing prior art designed [Refer figure 1A and 1B] configuration
comprises various components in the tailgate operation system/Gas spring of
passenger cars, each playing an essential role in the mechanism.
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[0005] The parts and working principle of the existing configuration and their
functions are provided below:
[0006] Gas Spring (1): The gas spring is a pivotal component responsible for
generating the necessary force for tailgate operation. It contains compressed
nitrogen gas, creating differential gas forces for opening and closing the tailgate.
[0007] Piston (2): The piston is a key element that moves within the gas spring. It
separates the gas-filled chamber and plays a pivotal role in regulating gas pressure
during tailgate operation.
[0008] Piston Seal (3): The piston seal ensures a proper seal between the piston
and the pressure tube to prevent gas leaks.
[0009] Piston Rod (4): The piston rod is connected to the piston and extends
outside the pressure tube. It transmits force from the gas spring to the tailgate,
enabling its movement.
[0010] Rod Guide (5): Located within the pressure tube, the rod guide guides the
piston rod's travel, maintaining stability and alignment.
[0011] Oil Seal (6): The oil seal prevents the leakage of gas and dampening oil that
are present within the pressure tube, ensuring a sealed environment.
[0012] Ball Socket (Rod End) (7): This component is attached to the end of the
piston rod and is designed to connect to other parts of the tailgate system.
[0013] Ball Socket (Tube End) (8): Similar to the rod end ball socket, this
component is attached to the end of the pressure tube and is also used for
connections within the system.
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[0014] Dust Cap (9): The dust cap is placed over the pressure tube to prevent the
entry of foreign particles, dust, and contaminants into the gas spring, ensuring its
smooth operation.
[0015] Piston Rod Side of Gas Spring (10): This refers to the side of the gas spring
where the piston rod is located.
[0016] Piston Side of Gas Spring (11): This refers to the side of the gas spring where
the piston is located.
[0017] Construction: The construction involves the assembly and integration of
these components, creating a system that facilitates tailgate operation in
passenger cars. It primarily consists of the pressure tube supporting the piston,
with various seals and guides ensuring proper functioning.
[0018] Working Principle: The working principle of this prior art configuration
involves the gas spring's ability to create differential gas forces to assist in opening
and closing the tailgate. When the tailgate is open, the gas spring is in an extended
position, and when closed, it's in a compressed position. Manual effort is required
to initiate the closing process, and the gas spring assists in maintaining the
tailgate's position.
[0019] This prior art configuration relies on the manual initiation of tailgate
movement, with the gas spring taking over once a specific angle is reached where
the gas force balances the tailgate's weight.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0020] An object of the invention is to: shortcoming or problem for above prior
art exists propose a kind of comprehensive and technologically advanced system
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is to eliminate the need for manual effort in the opening and closing of the tailgate
of passenger cars.
[0021] Another object of the invention is to automate the process of opening and
closing the tailgate, eliminating the requirement for manual effort by introducing
an efficient and reliable mechanism.
[0022] Yet another object of the invention is to utilize electromagnetic forces
generated by an energized coil and a magnet to initiate and control the movement
of the tailgate.
[0023] Yet another object of the invention is to enhance user convenience by
making the tailgate system more user-friendly, requiring minimal user
intervention.
[0024] Yet another object of the invention is to enhance safety by reducing the
risk of accidents or injuries associated with manual tailgate handling.
[0025] Yet another object of the invention is to improve the overall efficiency of
the tailgate system, making it more responsive and easier to operate.
[0026] Yet another object of the invention is to optimize energy consumption by
automatically cutting off the power supply to the electromagnetic coil when a
sufficient impulse is generated, thereby enhancing energy efficiency.
[0027] Further object of the present application will be highly appreciated and be
easily understood upon reading the detailed description taking into consideration
the appended drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
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[0028] The invention presents a system for improving the operation of tailgates in
passenger cars by eliminating the need for manual effort and introducing an
automated system driven by electromagnetic forces, ultimately the proposed
invention achieves this goal through the implementation of an inventive magnetic
and energized coil system.
[0029] Working: When the tailgate is in the open position, the gas spring is
extended, and a coil winding near a magnet is primed for action. The coil, when
energized, interacts with the magnet to generate a powerful force, initiating the
tailgate's closing motion. This force is transferred through a carefully designed
drive enclosure, piston rod, and ball socket, ultimately closing the tailgate
smoothly.
[0030] Similarly, when the tailgate is closed, the invention allows for effortless
opening. The coil, energized again through a switch, interacts with the magnet to
create a force that pushes the tailgate open. This push force is transferred through
the drive enclosure, piston rod, and ball socket, allowing for a seamless and
automated tailgate opening process.
[0031] Especially, the invention is designed with energy efficiency in mind, as it
automatically cuts off the power supply to the electromagnetic coil when a
sufficient impulse is generated, further optimizing energy usage.
[0032] Mainly, this invention represents a significant enhancement in user
convenience, safety, and efficiency for passenger car tailgate systems, making the
operation of tailgates a more effortless and enjoyable experience.
[0033] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject
matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of
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preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which
like numerals represent like components.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0034] For a fuller understanding of the invention, reference should be made to
the following detailed description, taken in connection with the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0035] FIG. 1A and 1B illustrates prior art configuration of an existing tailgate
operating system.
[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates an external view of the proposed tail gate operating
system, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates an internal configuration of the proposed tail gate
operating system, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] Figure 4a and 4b illustrates, placement of proposed tail gate operating
system in opening and closed state.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
S.NO
Components
Reference
numeral
1. Gas spring 1
2. Piston 2
3. Piston Seal 3
4. Piston Rod 4
5. Rod Guide 5
6. Oil Seal 6
7. Ball Socket (Rod End) 7
8
8. Ball Socket (Tube End) 8
9. Dust Cap 9
10. Piston Rod Side of Gas Spring 10
11. Piston Side of Gas Spring 11
12. Pressure tube 12
13. Piston rod thread 13
14. Tube rod thread 14
15. Magnet 15
16. Coil windings 16
17. Coil windings 17
18. Rod groove 18
19. Drive enclosure 19
20. Enclosure guide 20
21. Power source 21
22. Switch 22
23. Control means 23
24. Car body frame 24
25. Tailgate lid is in a closed condition (25a) 25 a
26. Tailgate lid is in an open condition (25b)
25 b
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0039] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed
herein, however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are
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merely exemplary of the invention which may be embodied in various forms.
Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be
interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative
basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention
in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. It is to be understood that other
embodiments may be utilized, and structural changes may be made without
departing from the scope of the invention.
[0040] All referenced methods are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety. Furthermore, where a definition or use of a term in a reference, which is
incorporated by reference herein, is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of
that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and
the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
[0041] While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussed to
facilitate disclosure of the invention, Applicants in no way disclaim these technical
aspects, and it is contemplated that the claimed invention may encompass one or
more of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.
[0042] The present invention may address one or more of the problems and
deficiencies of the prior art discussed above. However, it is contemplated that the
invention may prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies in a
number of technical areas. Therefore, the claimed invention should not
necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of the particular problems
or deficiencies discussed herein.
[0043] In this specification, where a document, act or item of knowledge is
referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an admission that the
document, act or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the
priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general
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knowledge, or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory
provisions; or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with
which this specification is concerned.
[0044] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms
“a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates
otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is
generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the context clearly
dictates otherwise.
[0045] One of the preferred embodiments of the invention relates to a tailgate
operating system for passenger cars comprising a pressure tube (12) designed to
support and guide a piston (2) equipped with a piston seal (3), a piston (2) with a
piston seal (3) capable of sliding forward and backward within said pressure tube
(12), which is filled with nitrogen gas, a piston rod (4) connected to the piston (2),
a rod guide (5) positioned within said pressure tube (12) to facilitate the travel of
the piston rod (4) in both forward and backward directions. The system mainly
characterized to include a magnet (15) over-molded to the dust cap (9) and
configured to provide the pull and push forces required for self-closing and selfopening of a tailgate lid (25a). A drive enclosure (19) configured to enclose and
hold coil windings (16) and (17) within said tailgate operation system.A piston rod
groove (18) designed to clamp the drive enclosure (19) securely in position. A ball
socket (7) securely fastened to the piston rod thread (13), facilitating the transfer
of pull and push forces generated by the coil windings (16) and (17). An enclosure
guide (20) guiding the drive enclosure (19) while it slides over the pressure tube
(12). A ball socket (8) securely fastened to the tube rod thread (14) within the
system. A power source (21) connected to coil windings (16) and (17). A switch
(22) used to activate the power source (21). A control means (23) configured to
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cut off the power supply to coil windings (16) and (17) once an impulse is
generated during the closing and opening processes.
When energized, coil winding (16) produces a pull force as it interacts with the
magnet (15), while coil winding (17) generates a push force through its interaction
with the magnet (15) thereby the system operates to eliminate the need for
manual effort during tailgate operation.
[0046] Another embodiment of the invention discloses about the system is
positioned on either one side or both sides to facilitate either active or passive
damping.
[0047] Yet another embodiment of the invention discloses about the working
principle; when the gas spring (1) is at an extended position, the tailgate lid is in
an open condition (25b), when the gas spring (1) is in the compressed position, the
tailgate lid is in a closed condition (25a), wherein the system operates by
energizing coil windings (16) and (17), which interact with the magnet (15) to
generate the necessary pull and push forces for tailgate lid movement, wherein
the system ensures that power supply is cut off by control means (23) when a
sufficient impulse is created, balancing the gas forces and tailgate lid weight for
smooth self-closing and self-opening operations.
[0048] Yet another embodiment of the invention discloses about an oil seal (6)
located within the pressure tube (12) to prevent gas and dampening oil leakage.
[0049] Yet another embodiment of the invention discloses about a dust cap (9)
installed over the pressure tube (12) to prevent foreign particle entry and
contamination.
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[0050] Yet another embodiment of the invention discloses about another possible
application of the tailgate operating system can be utilized for doors that move
vertically when opening or closing that pivot upwards.
[0051] The advantages set forth above, and those made apparent from the
foregoing description, are efficiently attained. Since certain changes may be made
in the above construction without departing from the scope of the invention, it is
intended that all matters contained in the foregoing description or shown in the
accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting
sense.

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[0052] APPLICATIONS OF TAILGATE SYSTEMS:
[0053] Automotive Tailgate Systems: This system can be integrated into various
passenger cars, providing automated opening and closing mechanisms for tailgate
lids.
[0054] Enhanced Safety and Convenience: The system eliminates the manual
effort typically required to open and close tailgate lids, enhancing convenience for
users and potentially reducing the risk of strain or injury.
[0055] Adaptability to Tailgate Designs: The design allows adaptability to
different tailgate lid designs and structures, enabling its application across various
car models and styles.
[0056] Self-Actuating Mechanism: By utilizing coil windings interacting with the
embedded magnet, the system achieves self-closing and self-opening
functionalities, ensuring ease of use for individuals without relying on manual
operation.
[0057] Controlled Power Supply: The control means and switch integrated into
the system manage the power supply to the coil windings, ensuring that the
opening and closing processes occur seamlessly while cutting off power once the
desired impulse is generated.
[0058] Components Integration: The system includes various components such
as the pressure tube, piston, rod guide, magnet, drive enclosure, coil windings, ball
sockets, and control means, all integrated to create an efficient tailgate operating
system.
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[0059] Power Source Efficiency: With a power source connected to the coil
windings and a controlled activation mechanism, the system likely maximizes
energy efficiency during tailgate operation.
[0060] ADVANTAGES:
[0061] Convenience: The automated system eliminates the need for manual
effort when opening and closing the tailgate, providing a hands-free operation for
users, which is particularly advantageous when carrying items or in situations
where hands are occupied.
[0062] Enhanced Safety: By removing the necessity for manual exertion, the
system reduces the risk of physical strain or injury that can occur when operating
heavy or cumbersome tailgate lids.
[0063] Universal Application: The system's design allows it to be adaptable to
various tailgate lid configurations and car models, making it versatile for
widespread application in the automotive industry.
[0064] Efficiency: The integration of components such as coil windings, magnets,
and control mechanisms optimizes the system's power usage, ensuring efficient
operation while conserving energy.
[0065] Customized Control: The inclusion of a control means and a switch enables
precise control over the opening and closing processes, allowing for customization
and adjustment based on user preferences.
[0066] Reliability: Components such as the pressure tube, piston, rod guide, and
ball sockets are designed to securely support and guide the moving parts,
enhancing the system's reliability and durability.
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[0067] User-Friendly Design: With the system's self-actuating mechanism and
automated functions, it offers a user-friendly design that simplifies the operation
of the tailgate, catering to a wide range of users, including those with limited
mobility.
[0068] Reduced Wear and Tear: The automated opening and closing processes
reduce wear and tear on the tailgate mechanism and associated parts, potentially
leading to longer-lasting components and reduced maintenance needs.
[0069] It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover
all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described, and all
statements of the scope of the invention that, as a matter of language, might be
said to fall there between. , Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A tailgate operating system for passenger cars comprising:
? a pressure tube (12) designed to support and guide a piston (2) equipped
with a piston seal (3),
? a piston (2) with a piston seal (3) capable of sliding forward and backward
within said pressure tube (12), which is filled with nitrogen gas.
? a piston rod (4) connected to the piston (2),
? a rod guide (5) positioned within said pressure tube (12) to facilitate the
travel of the piston rod (4) in both forward and backward directions,
Characterized in that
? a magnet (15) over-molded to the dust cap (9) and configured to provide
the pull and push forces required for self-closing and self-opening of a
tailgate lid (25a),
? a drive enclosure (19) configured to enclose and hold coil windings (16) and
(17) within said tailgate operation system,
? a piston rod groove (18) designed to clamp the drive enclosure (19)
securely in position,
? a ball socket (7) securely fastened to the piston rod thread (13), facilitating
the transfer of pull and push forces generated by the coil windings (16) and
(17),
? enclosure guide (20) guiding the drive enclosure (19) while it slides over
the pressure tube (12),
? a ball socket (8) securely fastened to the tube rod thread (14) within the
system,
? a power source (21) connected to coil windings (16) and (17),
? a switch (22) used to activate the power source (21),
? a control means (23) configured to cut off the power supply to coil windings (16) and (17) once an impulse is generated during the closing and opening processes,
• when energized, coil winding (16) produces a pull force as it interacts with the magnet (15), while coil winding (17) generates a push force through its interaction with the magnet (15) thereby the system operates to eliminate the need for manual effort during tailgate operation.

2. The tailgate operating system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system is positioned on either one side or both sides to facilitate either active or passive damping.

3. The tailgate operation system as claimed in claim 1, wherein
• when the gas spring (1) is at an extended position, the tailgate lid is in an open condition (25b),
• when the gas spring (1) is in the compressed position, the tailgate lid is in a closed condition (25a),
• wherein the system operates by energizing coil windings (16) and (17), which interact with the magnet (15) to generate the necessary pull and push forces for tailgate lid movement,
• wherein the system ensures that power supply is cut off by control means (23) when a sufficient impulse is created, balancing the gas forces and tailgate lid weight for smooth self-closing and self-opening operations.

4. The tailgate operation system as claimed in claim 1, wherein an oil seal (6) located within the pressure tube (12) to prevent gas and dampening oil leakage.

5. The tailgate operation system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a dust cap (9) installed over the pressure tube (12) to prevent foreign particle entry and contamination.

6. The tailgate operating system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tailgate operating system can be utilized for doors that move vertically when opening or closing that pivot upwards.