Tailgate Hinge Stiffness Design using Topology Optimization

摘要

This study presents an implementation of topology optimization design of a tailgate hinge optimized for use as a pickup truck cargo lift. As the number of pickup truck users has increased, convenience in loading and unloading has become an important concern. When a tailgate cargo lift is applied for this purpose, stiffness design of the hinge is of vital importance. Conventional tailgate hinges lack the stiffness to carry a tailgate's self-weight and cargo. To develop a suitable stiffness design, we first performed strength testing on a conventional hinge. Based on the strength test results, we then performed structural analysis to improve weak parts and derived a design direction from the test and analysis results to enhance the strength of the hinge. Finally, we performed topology optimization on the new design, thereby setting and determining the hinge shape having the minimum necessary volume. Based on the final results, we designed a tailgate hinge applicable to lift devices for pickup trucks and performed structural analysis, thus validating the design.