GB2548362A

GB2548362A - Vehicle panel positioning apparatus and system

Info

Publication number: GB2548362A
Application number: GB1604353.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Holmes Tristan; Shayler Stephen
Original assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Current assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority date: 2016-03-15
Filing date: 2016-03-15
Publication date: 2017-09-20
Anticipated expiration: 2036-03-15
Also published as: DE112017001363T5; GB2548362B; GB201604353D0; WO2017157713A1

Abstract

A vehicle panel positioning apparatus 100 comprises a support 104 for a vehicle panel 208 at a first position (102, Figure 2A) adjacent a lower edge 206 of a lowerable vehicle tailgate 202, and a mechanism 110 for moving support 104, preferably inwardly, to create a gap (112, Figure 2B) at the first position so that tailgate 202 can be lowered to extend outwardly. The vehicle may comprise a split tailgate with lower tailgate 202 and an upper liftable tailgate portion (204, Figure 1B). Typically, support 104 may be rotated about an axis parallel to an axis of rotation of tailgate 202. Mechanism 110 may comprise an actuating rod that may move dependent on movement of tailgate 202, so that movement of tailgate movement 202 moves support 104; optionally mechanism 110 may also comprise a curved lever coupled to support 104 and the actuating rod.

Description

VEHICLE PANEL POSITIONING APPARATUS AND SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a vehicle panel positioning apparatus and system, and particularly, but not exclusively to a vehicle panel positioning apparatus for use with a vehicle tailgate. Aspects of the invention relate to a vehicle panel positioning apparatus, to a split tailgate system and to a vehicle.

BACKGROUND

In some vehicles a lowerable vehicle tailgate may be lowered to extend outwardly from the vehicle and provide an opening to a load carrying area as well as an outwardly extending load bearing surface.

In some vehicles, when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is opened the vehicle tailgate rotates or pivots so that an upper portion moves outwardly to form the load bearing surface while a lower portion, adjacent a lower edge, moves inwardly.

To prevent the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate hitting the rear of the vehicle, the rear of the vehicle has a slot-like gap beneath the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate and above the rear bumper. The gap is sized to accommodate the rotating lower edge of the vehicle tailgate when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is opened.

If the lowerable vehicle tailgate is significantly curved, the rear bumper may have to sit even lower on the vehicle to provide clearance for the curved portions of the lowerable vehicle tailgate when the tailgate is opened. This results in a larger gap.

The gap is visible when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is in a closed position. It is an aim of the present invention to provide a gap hider to conceal or reduce the gap when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is closed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus, a system, a split tailgate system and a vehicle as claimed in the appended claims.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle panel positioning apparatus, comprising first means for supporting a vehicle panel at a first position adjacent a lower edge of a lowerable vehicle tailgate, and second means for moving the first means to create a gap at the first position adjacent the lowerable vehicle tailgate, so that the lowerable vehicle tailgate can be lowered to extend outwardly.

This provides the advantage that a vehicle panel can be held by the vehicle panel positioning apparatus to reduce or conceal the gap between the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate and the top edge of the rear bumper when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is closed. The vehicle panel may therefore be referred to as a gap reducer panel, or as a gap hider.

The second means may be for moving the first means at least inwardly to create the gap. This provides the advantage that the vehicle panel can be retracted without clashing with the lowerable vehicle tailgate. For the avoidance of doubt, the term ‘at least inwardly’ does not exclude additional movement in other directions. Additional movement in other directions may beneficially enable a bigger gap to be created, or a simpler mechanism to be provided. The lowerable vehicle tailgate may be a lower leaf of a vehicle split tailgate system comprising a lower leaf and an upper leaf.

The second means may be arranged to move the first means so that the gap at the first position is sized to receive at least a portion of the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is lowered. This enables the lowerable vehicle tailgate to be opened fully.

The apparatus may comprise fixing means for fixing the apparatus to a vehicle, wherein movement of the first means comprises movement of the first means at least inwardly towards the fixing means. The fixing means may be a fixing structure arranged to fix the apparatus to the vehicle.

The second means may be arranged to rotate the first means inwardly about an axis of rotation, wherein in use the axis of rotation is parallel to an axis of rotation of the lowerable vehicle tailgate.

The second means may enable movement of the first means to a second position to create the gap at the first position. The second means may have a first configuration that enables movement of the first means from the second position to position a supported vehicle panel at the first position adjacent the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate, and a second configuration that disables movement of the first means from the second position. The first configuration may enable the second means to reversibly move the first means between the first and second positions. The second configuration may enable the second means to be disabled such that the second means cannot move the first means from the second position. As a result the first means may remain in the second position.

This provides the advantage of avoiding any damage to panels in conditions where damage may occur as a result of moving the first means from the second position.

The second means may comprise an actuating rod arranged to move in dependence on movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate so that lowering the lowerable vehicle tailgate causes the actuating rod to move the first means. This actuating rod, or ‘link arm’, provides the advantage that the first means is automatically moved when an operator lowers the lowerable vehicle tailgate.

The second means may comprise a lever, wherein the first means is coupled to the lever, wherein the lever is mounted to the apparatus to rotate about a fulcrum. This provides a mechanical advantage for moving the first means when an operator lowers the lowerable vehicle tailgate.

The lever may be curved along at least a portion of its length, defining an open pocket for accommodating the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is lowered. This provides the advantage of enabling the apparatus to be positioned closer to the centre of the vehicle without hitting the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate as the lowerable vehicle tailgate is lowered.

The apparatus may comprise hinge means for hinged connection to the lowerable vehicle tailgate, wherein the actuating rod is connected to or is connectable to the hinge means. The hinge means may be a hinge. This provides the advantage that one apparatus can support weight from both the vehicle panel and the lowerable vehicle tailgate. This also provides the advantage that the first means is automatically moved when an operator lowers the lowerable vehicle tailgate.

The actuating rod may be connected to or may be connectable to the hinge means by a first pivot or sliding joint. The actuating rod may be connected to or may be connectable to the lever by a second pivot or sliding joint.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle panel positioning system comprising the vehicle panel positioning apparatus as described herein and a vehicle panel supported by the first means. The second means may be for moving the vehicle panel at least inwardly.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle split tailgate system comprising the vehicle panel positioning apparatus as described herein or the vehicle panel positioning system as described herein, and a lowerable vehicle tailgate.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle comprising the vehicle panel positioning apparatus as described herein, or the vehicle panel positioning system as described herein, or the vehicle split tailgate system as described herein. The vehicle may be a passenger vehicle, such as a sports utility vehicle.

The vehicle panel at the first position may be separated from the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate by a panel gap of less than 10mm, or less than 5mm, or less than 3mm,

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle panel configured to be supported by first means of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus as described herein.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle split tailgate system comprising: a lowerable vehicle tailgate; first means for supporting a vehicle panel at a first position adjacent a lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate; and second means arranged to move in dependence on movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate so that lowering the lowerable vehicle tailgate causes the second means to move the first means.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle panel positioning apparatus, comprising a support arranged to support a vehicle panel at a first position adjacent a lower edge of a lowerable vehicle tailgate, and a mechanism arranged to move the support at least inwardly to create a gap at the first position adjacent the lowerable vehicle tailgate, so that the lowerable vehicle tailgate can be lowered to extend outwardly.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle panel positioning apparatus, comprising first means for supporting a vehicle panel at a first position adjacent an edge of a vehicle component, and second means for moving the first means to create a gap at the first position adjacent the vehicle component, so that the component can be lowered to extend outwardly. The component may be an exterior component of the vehicle. The component may be a lower-hinged, lowerable vehicle tailgate, or a side-hinged tailgate, or a roof-hinged tailgate. The second means may move the first means in any first direction that enables the gap to be created. In examples the first direction is at least inwardly, but it could be at least in any other direction such as outwardly, upwardly or downwardly. The second means may also move the first means in a second direction opposing the first direction.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig 1A illustrates an example of a vehicle (10) and Fig 1B illustrates an example of a vehicle (10) comprising a vehicle split tailgate system (200);

Fig 2A illustrates an example of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) when a tailgate is closed and Fig 2B illustrates the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) when the tailgate is open;

Fig 3 illustrates another example of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100); and Figs 4A to 4D illustrate another example of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) during use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figures 2A, 3, and 4A to D illustrate a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100), comprising first means (104) for supporting a vehicle panel (208) at a first position (102) adjacent a lower edge (206) of a lowerable vehicle tailgate (202), and second means (110) for moving the first means (104) to create a gap (112) at the first position (102) adjacent the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202), so that the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be lowered to extend outwardly.

Examples in the present disclosure relate to a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) for a vehicle (10) such as, for example, the vehicle (10) illustrated in Fig 1A. In some but not necessarily all examples, the vehicle (10) comprises a vehicle split tailgate system (200), for example, as illustrated in Fig 1B.

It will be helpful when describing an example of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) to refer to a co-ordinate system (20), which is used in Figs 1 A, IB, 2A, 2B, 3, 4A-4D.

Fig 1A shows a vehicle (10) and the co-ordinate system (20). The co-ordinate system (20) is an x-y-z Cartesian co-ordinate system defined using three mutually orthogonal axis- x axis, y axis , z axis. The co-ordinate system (20) is fixed relative to the vehicle (10). The co-ordinate system (20) is only for showing direction, not for positioning an origin and will have the same orientation but may have different locations in the respective figures. The vehicle (10) has a length corresponding to the x-axis, a width corresponding to the y-axis, and a height corresponding to the z-axis. Figs 1 A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3 are x-z plane cross-sections.

The vehicle (10) comprises propulsion means (14), such as a motor and/or an engine, at any suitable location on the vehicle (10), for propelling the vehicle (10) in a forward motion along the positive x-axis, or in reverse motion along the negative x-axis. The vehicle (10) comprises a steering system (16) for changing the direction of the vehicle (10) on an x-y plane. The vehicle (10) comprises a load carrying compartment (18). The vehicle comprises a rear bumper (12).

Fig IB shows a vehicle split tailgate system (200) mounted on a vehicle (10). The vehicle split tailgate system (200) comprises a lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) (lower leaf) and a raisable vehicle tailgate (204) (upper leaf). The lower leaf (202) is a lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) that is lowered to an open position to enable access to a load carrying compartment (18) of the vehicle (10). The upper leaf (204) is a raisable vehicle tailgate (204) that is raised to an open position to enable access to the load carrying compartment (18) of the vehicle (10). The upper leaf (204) and lower leaf (202) may be arranged to move independently and/or may be arranged to move together.

In this example, the vehicle split tailgate system (200) has a vehicle exterior side (22) visible from outside the vehicle (10), and a vehicle interior side (24) visible from the interior of the vehicle (10). In some but not necessarily all examples, the vehicle exterior side (22) surface of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) may be painted, and/or the vehicle interior side (24) surface of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) may be upholstered.

The lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be fully closed as illustrated by the solid line. In the fully closed position, in this example, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) extends upwardly wholly or predominantly in the direction of the positive z-axis from its lower edge (206). The profile of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be but need not be entirely parallel to the z-axis.

The lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be fully opened as illustrated by the dashed line. In the fully opened position, in this example, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) extends outwardly wholly or predominantly in the direction of the negative x-axis from its lower edge (206). The profile of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be but need not be entirely parallel to the x-axis.

The lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be lowered from the fully closed position as illustrated by the solid line in Fig 1B to the fully opened position as illustrated by the dashed line in Fig 1B.

The lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be raised from the fully opened position as illustrated by the dashed line in Fig 1B to the fully closed position as illustrated by the solid line in Fig 1B.

The lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) may be arranged so that it can be rotated about an axis parallel to the y-axis between the fully closed and fully open positions.

In both the fully opened and the fully closed positions, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) extends substantially along the y-axis. In the fully closed position, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) provides a vehicle body panel that at least partially closes the load carrying compartment (18) of the vehicle (10). In the fully opened position, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) provides a vehicle body panel that provides a platform entrance to the load carrying compartment (18) of the vehicle (10).

In the fully closed position, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) may extend substantially in the y-z plane but is not necessarily entirely parallel to the y-z plane as it may be curved.

The rear bumper (12) may also extend substantially in the y-z plane but is not necessarily parallel to the y-z plane as it may be curved. Consequently the perimeter of the gap (112) above the rear bumper (12) when the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is lowered may define a two-dimensional or a three-dimensional shape.

The upper leaf (204) is also illustrated in Fig IB and may, for example, comprise one or more lock mechanisms, glazing, and/or tailgate struts. In some but not necessarily all examples, the vehicle exterior side surface of the upper leaf (204) may be painted, and/or the vehicle interior side surface of the upper leaf (204) may comprise one or more trim panels.

The upper leaf (204) can be fully closed as illustrated by the solid line. In the fully closed position, in this example, the upper leaf (204) extends downwardly wholly or predominantly in the direction of the negative z-axis from its upper edge (210). The profile of the upper leaf (204) can be but need not be entirely parallel to the z-axis.

The upper leaf (204) can be fully opened as illustrated by the dashed line. In the fully opened position, in this example, the upper leaf (204) extends outwardly from its upper edge (210). The profile of the upper leaf (204) can be but need not be entirely parallel to the x-axis.

The upper leaf (204) can be raised from the fully closed position as illustrated by the solid line in Fig 1B to the fully opened position as illustrated by the dashed line in Fig 1B.

The upper leaf (204) can be lowered from the fully opened position as illustrated by the dashed line in Fig 1B to the fully closed position as illustrated by the solid line in Fig 1B.

The upper leaf (204) may arranged so that it can be rotated about an axis parallel to the y-axis between the fully closed and fully open positions.

In both the fully opened and the fully closed positions, the upper leaf (204) extends substantially along the y-axis. In the fully closed position, the upper leaf (204) provides a vehicle body panel with or without a window that at least partially closes the load carrying compartment (18) of the vehicle (10).

Fig 2A and Fig 2B illustrate an example of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100). A vehicle panel (208) and the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) are shown merely for illustrative purposes to show the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) in use. The vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) may for example be supplied with or without the vehicle panel (208). In some examples the vehicle panel (208) is provided pre-attached to the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100), forming a vehicle panel positioning system (300). The vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) may for example be supplied with or without the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202).

Figs 2A and 2B are x-z plane cross-sections, similar to Fig IB. The same coordinate systems is used to define inwards (-i-x), outwards (-x), upper (-i-z), lower (-z).

In Fig 2A, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is in the fully closed position. The vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) is positioned inwardly, or inboard, from the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202), so that it is on the vehicle interior side (24) relative the surface of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202). When the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is in the fully closed position, the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) may be at least partially concealed. This means it is not visible to occupants of the vehicle and/or to people outside the vehicle. In some examples the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) is concealed by trim paneling in the vehicle interior, and by the vehicle panel (208) on the vehicle exterior side.

The vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) comprises first means (104) for supporting a vehicle panel (208) at a first position (102) adjacent a lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202).

An upper edge of the vehicle panel (208) at the first position (102) may be separated from the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) by a panel gap (140)of less than 10mm and in some embodiments of less than 5mm or 3mm. The panel gap (140) may be of a similar size to other panel gaps between other body panels of the vehicle (10), so that the vehicle panel (208) in the first position (102) would make the vehicle (10) appear to have a substantially smooth and continuous outer surface.

The vehicle panel (208) at the first position (102) may be inclined relative to the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202). In some, but not necessarily all examples, the vehicle panel (208) at the first position (102) meets at its lower edge an upper edge or surface of a rear bumper (12) of the vehicle (10) and meets at its upper edge the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202). The upper edge of the vehicle panel (208), extending in a y-axis direction (widthwise) may have a shape that conforms to the shape of the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202). The lower edge of the vehicle panel (208), extending in the y-axis direction (widthwise) may have a shape that conforms to the shape of the upper edge of the rear bumper (12).

In some but not necessarily all examples, the vehicle panel (208) may be formed from the same material as the panel surface of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202), for example a metal. The vehicle exterior side (22) surface of the vehicle panel (208) may be painted. The vehicle panel (208) may be elongate, its y-axis dimension (width) being greater than its z-axis dimension (height) in the fully closed position.

The y-axis dimension (width) of the vehicle panel (208) may be greater than 50% of the y-axis dimension (width) of the vehicle (excluding mirrors). The y-axis dimension (width) of the vehicle panel (208) may be approximately 100% of the y-axis dimension (width) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202).

In the fully closed position, the vehicle panel (208) may have a z-axis dimension (height) less than, optionally less than 50% of, the z-axis dimension (height) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202).

The vehicle panel (208) may be configured to be supported by first means (104) of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100). The first means (104) may comprise, for example, an attachment mechanism, and/or an attachment surface for supporting the vehicle panel (208). The vehicle panel (208) may comprise a corresponding attachment mechanism or surface for attachment to the first means (104). For example the first means (104) and vehicle panel (208) may be clipped, welded, screwed or bolted together.

In Fig 2B, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is illustrated in the fully opened position. A dashed line is shown to illustrate the original positions of the elements shown in Fig 2A, so that it is apparent whether any elements have moved and where they have moved to.

Referring to Fig 2B, the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) comprises second means (110) for moving the first means (104) to create a gap (112) at the first position (102) below and adjacent the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202), so that the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be lowered to extend outwardly (in the -x direction). The second means (110) is shown functionally, in the form of an arrow (110) depicting means for providing a force to move the first means (104). The second means (110) may be for moving the first means (104) at least inwardly (at least in the +x direction). It will be appreciated that the arrow (110) does not necessarily denote a resultant direction of motion of the first means (104). In some examples, the motion of the first means (104) is complex and may exhibit two-dimensional or three-dimensional curvature. For example the first means (104) may move upwardly in the +Z direction in addition to movement at least inwardly.

The second means (110) can comprise any suitable mechanism, whether mechanical, electro-mechanical or hydraulic for example. The mechanism may comprise any number of static and moving parts. The second means (110) is any means that enables an input by a user or another component of the vehicle (10) to be transferred into output force to move the first means (104).

Fig 2B illustrates the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) protruding inwardly through the gap (112) when the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is in the fully opened position. The first means (104) and the vehicle panel (208) are displaced at least inwardly, along the positive x-axis, therefore avoiding contact with the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202). The second means (110) has caused the first means (104) to move the vehicle panel (208) out of the way of the lower edge (206). The second means (110) therefore enables the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) to be opened fully.

In some, but not necessarily all examples, the second means (110) is arranged to move the first means (104) so that the gap (112) at the first position (102) is sized to receive at least the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) when the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is lowered such that the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) rotates, causing an upper portion of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) to move outwardly to form a load bearing surface while a lower portion adjacent the lower edge (206), moves inwardly into the gap (112).

As shown in Fig 2B, the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) has passed through the gap (112) at the first position (102). The gap (112) may be significantly larger than the panel gap (140) and may have a dimension of 40mm.. The gap (112) may be sized to receive as much of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) as necessary to enable the tailgate (202) to be fully opened. In an example, the gap (112) may have a y-z plane area greater than the y-z plane area of the vehicle panel (208) when it is in the first position (102).

The first means (104) has been moved from at or near the first position 102 (Fig 2A) to a second position (116) (Fig 2B), different from the first position (102). In some, but not necessarily all examples, movement of the first means (104) is possible in reverse to return the first means (104) from the second position (116) to supporting the vehicle panel (208) at the first position (102) when the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) has been raised to the fully closed position.

In some but not necessarily all examples, the second means (110) may have a first configuration in which the first means (104) can return from the second position (116) to supporting the vehicle panel (208) at the first position (102) and a second, different, configuration in which the first means (104) cannot return from the second position (116) to supporting the vehicle panel (208) at the first position (102).

For example, the second means (110) may have a first configuration that enables movement of the first means (104) from the second position (116) to position a supported vehicle panel (208) at the first position (102) adjacent the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) and may have a second configuration that disables movement of the first means (104) from the second position (116). For example, it may be possible to disconnect the second means (110) from the first means (104) when the first means (104) is at the second position (116), by disconnecting or disabling any part of the second means (110) necessary to cause movement of the first means (104) at least outwardly from the second position (116).

The change between first and second configurations may be enabled using, for example, a de-coupler. Examples of de-couplers include clutches, springs, sprockets, ball and socket mechanisms and shape memory alloys.

Fig 3 illustrates an example of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100).

In this example, the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) is fixed to a chassis (not shown) of the vehicle (10) via a fixing means (118) and to the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) via hinge means (132).

The hinge means (132) is attached to the fixing means (118) via a connector (142) such as a pivot, a sliding joint or the like. The hinge means (132) also comprises a bracket, plate or other connector for attachment to the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202). The lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) rotates about an axis of rotation (138) through the connector (142).

The fixing means (118) is for mounting the hinge means (132) to a solid portion of the vehicle (10). The weight of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) and any service loads applied thereto can be transferred to the vehicle (10) via the hinge means (132) and the fixing means (118).

In some, but not necessarily all examples, the fixing means (118) may comprise a metal structure. The fixing means (118) comprises a body protruding from an end plate in a cantilevered manner in the negative x-direction. The end plate may be bolted and/or welded to the vehicle (10), for example to a bulkhead on the vehicle chassis (10). An end plate is one of many possibilities for providing a fixing to the vehicle (10).

In some, but not necessarily all examples, the second means (110) is arranged to rotate the first means (104) inwardly about an axis of rotation (136), wherein in use the axis of rotation (136) is parallel to an axis of rotation (138) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202). Both axes of rotation are parallel to the y-axis. In this example, the axis of rotation (136) of the first means is offset from the axis of rotation (138) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) in the positive x-direction and in the negative z-direction. The rotation of the first means (104) comprises movement at least inwardly in the positive x-direction. In the example of Fig 3, the rotation also comprises movement upwardly in the positive z-direction

Fig 3 therefore illustrates a vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) comprising fixing means (118) for fixing the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) to a vehicle (10), wherein movement of the first means (104) comprises movement of the first means (104) at least inwardly towards the fixing means (118). The movement is at least in the positive x-direction inwardly towards the end plate, and in some examples, also in the z-direction towards the body.

As shown in Fig 3, the second means (110) comprises a lever (122). The lever (122) may be in the form of a swan neck lever (122). The first means (104) is coupled to one end of the lever (122) and the lever (122) is mounted to the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) at its other end to rotate about a fulcrum (124) that defines the axis of rotation (136).

The lever (122) further performs the function of supporting the weight of vehicle panel (208) and transferring the load to the fixing means (118). The lever (122) may be a swan neck hinge which may function as a lever (122).

In some, but not necessarily all examples, the lever (122) and the first means (104) is formed from the same continuous piece of material. The vehicle panel (208) could even be formed with the lever (122) and first means (104) from said same continuous piece of material.

The fulcrum (124) illustrated in Fig 3 is a pivot. Alternatively a sliding joint could be used, and the function of a fulcrum (124) and lever (122) would still be achieved. The fulcrum (124) defines the axis of rotation (136) of the first means (104). This axis of rotation (136) is substantially parallel to the y-axis. Movement of the first means (104) at least inwardly refers to clockwise rotation of the lever (122) about the fulcrum (124), i.e. towards the fixing means (118) and in the positive x-axis and positive z-axis directions.

In the example of Fig 3, the lever (122) is curved along its length, defining an open pocket (120) for accommodating the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) when the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is lowered. The lever (122) may have a ‘swan neck’ shape as shown in Fig 3, to define the pocket (120). This enables the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) to be positioned close to the centre of the vehicle (10) without the lever (122), fouling the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) while the latter is lowered.

The second means (110) may comprise an actuating rod (128) arranged to move in dependence on movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) so that lowering the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) causes the actuating rod (128) to move the first means (104).

In Fig 3, the actuating rod (128) is connected to or is connectable to the hinge means (132). Therefore rotation of the hinge means (132) by opening the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) causes the actuating rod (128) to move, which causes the first means (104) to move. It will be appreciated that the actuating rod (128) need not be coupled directly to hinge means (132) and could be coupled to another part of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202).

The actuating rod (128) is connected to or is connectable to the hinge means (132) by a first pivot (134) or sliding joint or the like. The first pivot (134) may be positioned anywhere on the surface of the hinge means (132). In an embodiment, a welded-on boss (130) extends from a plate of the hinge means (132) and comprises the first pivot (134).

The lever (122) may be connected to or is connectable to the actuating rod (128), at a position along the lever (122) displaced from the fulcrum (124) and from the first means (104). The actuating rod (128) is connected to or is connectable to the lever (122) by a second pivot (126) or sliding joint or the like. This embodiment of the second means (110) may provide a mechanical advantage compared to other types of second means (110) such as a rotatable actuator mounted at the fulcrum point (124).

The distance of the second pivot (126) from the fulcrum (124) may be less than the distance of the second pivot (126) from the first means (104). Therefore small movement of the actuating rod (128) results in relatively greater movement of the first means (104). Therefore it would be appreciated that the arcs of rotation of the first means (104) and the second means (110) can be different.

The distance of the first pivot (134) from the fixed bracket pivot (142) may be different from the distance of the second pivot (126) from the fixed fulcrum (124). The distance of the first means (104) from the fixed fulcrum (124) may be different from the distance of the first pivot (134) from the fixed bracket pivot (142). Therefore a plurality of different arcs of rotation about the fixed pivots (142, 124) is possible.

While the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is being lowered, a small initial movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) causes a large movement of the vehicle panel (208), and a later large movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) causes a small movement of the vehicle panel (208). This is explained with reference to Fig 3. The lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) rotates about the fixed bracket pivot (142), pulling the actuating rod (128). The actuating rod (128) being of fixed length causes the second pivot (126), attached at a fixed length to the fixed fulcrum (124) via the fixed length swan neck lever (122), to rotate about the fixed fulcrum (124). The first means (104) and attached vehicle panel (208) follow the rotation of the second pivot (126) about fixed fulcrum (124) as they are also attached at fixed respective lengths to rotate relative to the second pivot (126) and the fixed fulcrum (124). Initial lowering of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is substantially in the -x direction away from the second pivot (126), therefore the above-described fixed-length components force the second pivot (126) to travel a long path in an arc around its fixed fulcrum (124). Therefore small initial rotation of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) causes a large initial movement of the vehicle panel (208). Later lowering of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) includes a smaller -x component away from the second pivot (126) and a greater -z component towards the second pivot (126). Therefore the above-described fixed-length components force the second pivot (126) to travel in an arc but only by a shorter path. Therefore a later large rotation of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) causes a small movement of the vehicle panel (208).

In the example of Fig 3, the first pivot (134) or second pivot (126) may be disengagable to change the second means (110) between its first and second configurations. For example the first pivot (134) and/or the second pivot (126) may comprise a removable pivot pin, a clutch or the like. A pivot pin might, for example, sit in an open pocket on the fixing means (118) so that it can be removed. A clutch may be hand operable. Therefore if contaminants such as ice have built up on the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100), vehicle panel (208) or lowerable vehicle tailgate (202), the second configuration can be enabled by a user so that the first means (104) cannot be moved from the second position (116), to reduce the risk of scratching or damaging panels on the intruding ice.

Figs 4A-4D illustrate two vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100), in use on a vehicle (10). Any number of vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) may be used. The co-ordinate system (20) is shown in Fig 4A only but also applies to Figs 4B to 4D.

Fig 4A illustrates a lowerable vehicle tailgate (202), in the fully closed position. Fig 4D illustrates the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202), at the fully open position, approximately 90 degrees from the fully closed position. Figs 4B and 4C illustrate the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) in intermediate open positions of approximately 30 degrees and 60 degrees respectively.

In Fig 4A, the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is attached to the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) via brackets (132). Each bracket (132) is pivotally attached to a fixture (118) via a bracket pivot (142). Each fixture (118) extends in the negative x-direction and is fixed in position relative to a chassis of the vehicle (10). The bracket pivot (142) allows the bracket (132) to rotate clockwise about the y-axis, relative to the fixture (18), about a first axis of rotation (138), so that the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) can be opened. When the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is in the fully closed position, the bracket (132) extends upwards in the positive z-direction from the bracket pivot (142) to its end plate (144) for connection to the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202).

In Fig 4A, the vehicle panel (208) is at the first position (102). The vehicle panel (208) is attached to the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) via connectors (104). Each connector (104) is at the end of a swan neck lever (122), The swan neck lever (122) is curved, extending inwardly from the connector (104), in the positive x-direction, then upwardly, in the positive z-direction, then outwardly, in the negative x-direction, terminating at a fulcrum (124). The fulcrum (124) pivotally attaches the swan neck lever (122) to the fixture (118). The fulcrum (124) allows the swan neck lever (122) to rotate about a second axis of rotation (136) centred on the fulcrum (124), so that the vehicle panel (208) can be rotated about the second axis of rotation (136). The second axis of rotation (136) of the fulcrum (124) is displaced from the first axis of rotation (138) of the bracket pivot (142) in the positive x-direction and in the negative z-direction. The first and second axes of rotation (136,138) both extend parallel to the y-axis and parallel to each other.

In Fig 4A, a stiff actuating rod (128) interconnects the bracket (132) and the swan neck lever (122) so that opening the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) causes the vehicle panel (208) to be moved at least inwardly in a similar manner as described in relation to Fig 3. An end of the actuating rod is connected to the bracket (132) via a first pivot (134). The first pivot (134) is on a boss (130) welded to the bracket (132). When the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is in the fully closed position, the boss (130) protrudes in the negative z-direction from the bracket (132). The position of the boss (130) is fixed relative the bracket (132), therefore the position of the first pivot (134) can move about axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation (138) as the bracket (132) rotates. An opposite end of the actuating rod (128) is connected to the swan neck lever (122) via a second pivot (126). The second pivot (126) is at a point on the swan neck lever (122) between the fulcrum (124) and the connector (104). The position of the second pivot can move about an axis of rotation parallel to but displaced from the second axis of rotation (136) as the swan neck lever (122) rotates. The first and second pivots (134, 126) have corresponding axes of rotation parallel to the y-axis and parallel to each other.

The bracket (132) and actuating rod (128) can rotate relative to each other about the first pivot (134). The swan neck lever (122) and actuating rod (128) can rotate relative to each other about the second pivot (126). Therefore the first and second pivots (134, 126) enable rotation of the bracket (132) and swan neck lever (122) about different axes of rotation (136, 138). When the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) is in the fully closed position, the second pivot (126) is displaced in the positive x-direction (and positive z direction) from the first pivot (134), so that any movement of the first pivot (134) in the positive z-direction causes clockwise rotation of the swan neck lever (122), moving the vehicle panel (208) inwardly in a rotating motion.

Fig 4B shows the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) opened to 30 degrees. Each the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) is the same as described in Fig 4A. The bracket (132) is rotated clockwise to 30 degrees about the second axis of rotation (136) and the boss (130) is similarly rotated. The first pivot (134) of the actuating rod (128) is displaced by this rotation, displacing the actuating rod (128) and its second pivot (126). Displacement of the second pivot (126) pulls the swan neck lever (122), rotating the swan neck lever (122) clockwise about the fulcrum (124) about the first axis of rotation (136). The vehicle panel (208) is displaced inwardly and towards the fixture (118), creating a gap (112).

Fig 4C shows the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) opened to 60 degrees. Each vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) is the same as described in Fig 4B. The bracket (132) is rotated clockwise to 60 degrees about the second axis of rotation (136) and the boss (130) is similarly rotated. The first pivot (134) of the actuating rod (128) is displaced by this rotation, displacing the actuating rod (128) and its second pivot (126). Displacement of the second pivot (126) pulls the swan neck lever (122), rotating the swan neck lever (122) clockwise about the fulcrum (124) about the first axis of rotation (136). The vehicle panel (208) is displaced inwardly and towards the fixture (118), enlarging the gap (112).

Fig 4D shows the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) opened to the fully opened position of 90 degrees. Each vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) is the same as described in Fig 4C. The bracket (132) is rotated clockwise to 90 degrees about the second axis of rotation (136) and the boss (130) is similarly rotated. The first pivot (134) of the actuating rod (128) is displaced by this rotation, displacing the actuating rod (128) and its second pivot (126). Displacement of the second pivot (126) pulls the swan neck lever (122), rotating the swan neck lever (122) clockwise about the fulcrum (124) about the first axis of rotation (136). The vehicle panel (208) is displaced inwardly and towards the fixture (118) to arrive at the second position (116), enlarging the gap (112). The swan neck lever (122) is ‘tucked’ against the fixture (118). The curved shape of the swan neck lever (122) accommodates the lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202).

Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed. For example instead of a lowerable vehicle tailgate (208), the vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) could be a gap concealer for a side-hinged tailgate or for an upper leaf (204) such as a roof-hinged tailgate, or for another vehicle component.

Further, the first means (104) need not move at least inwardly. For example, the first means (104) could move at least outwardly, for example folding downwards and outwards shortly in advance of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) starting to move. The first means (104) could displace upwardly or downwardly.

In some, but not necessarily all examples, the second means (110) could refer to linear or rotating electro-mechanical actuators controlled by a vehicle controller. Such a controller could transmit a control signal to cause the actuator to move the first means (104), wherein the signal is transmitted in dependence on an input signal from a sensor detecting current or intended movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202). A vehicle panel positioning apparatus (100) or vehicle panel positioning system (300) as described herein can be provided alone or with the vehicle split tailgate system (200) prior to attachment to the vehicle (10).

In some, but not necessarily all examples, the lever (122) and the first means (104) are formed from the same continuous piece of material, for example metal.

In some, but not necessarily all examples there is provided a vehicle split tailgate system (200) comprising: a lowerable vehicle tailgate (202); first means (104) for supporting a vehicle panel (208) at a first position (102) adjacent a lower edge (206) of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202); and second means (110) arranged to move in dependence on movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) so that lowering the lowerable vehicle tailgate (202) causes the second means (110) to move the first means (104).

For purposes of this disclosure, it is to be understood that the controller(s) described herein, if any, can each comprise a control unit or computational device having one or more electronic processors. A vehicle (10) and/or a system thereof may comprise a single control unit or electronic controller or alternatively different functions of the controller(s) may be embodied in, or hosted in, different control units or controllers. A set of instructions could be provided which, when executed, cause said controller(s) or control unit(s) to implement the control techniques described herein (including the described method(s)). The set of instructions may be embedded in one or more electronic processors, or alternatively, the set of instructions could be provided as software to be executed by one or more electronic processor(s). For example, a first controller may be implemented in software run on one or more electronic processors, and one or more other controllers may also be implemented in software run on or more electronic processors, optionally the same one or more processors as the first controller. It will be appreciated, however, that other arrangements are also useful, and therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to any particular arrangement. In any event, the set of instructions described above may be embedded in a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a non-transitory storage medium) that may comprise any mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a machine or electronic processors/computational device, including, without limitation: a magnetic storage medium (e.g., floppy diskette); optical storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM); magneto optical storage medium; read only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM ad EEPROM); flash memory; or electrical or other types of medium for storing such information/instructions.

Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described.

Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, those features may also be present in other embodiments whether described or not.

Whilst endeavoring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

1. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus, comprising first means for supporting a vehicle panel at a first position adjacent a lower edge of a lowerable vehicle tailgate, and second means for moving the first means to create a gap at the first position adjacent the lowerable vehicle tailgate, so that the lowerable vehicle tailgate can be lowered to extend outwardly.

2. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second means is for moving the first means at least inwardly to create the gap.

3. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the lowerable vehicle tailgate is a lower leaf of a vehicle split tailgate system comprising a lower leaf and an upper leaf.

4. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the second means is arranged to move the first means so that the gap at the first position is sized to receive at least a portion of the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is lowered.

5. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising fixing means for fixing the vehicle panel positioning apparatus to a vehicle, wherein movement of the first means comprises movement of the first means at least inwardly towards the fixing means.

6. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the second means is arranged to rotate the first means inwardly about an axis of rotation, wherein in use the axis of rotation is parallel to an axis of rotation of the lowerable vehicle tailgate.

7. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the second means enables movement of the first means to a second position to create the gap at the first position, and wherein the second means has a first configuration that enables movement of the first means from the second position to position a supported vehicle panel at the first position adjacent the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate, and has a second configuration that disables movement of the first means.

8. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the second means comprises an actuating rod arranged to move in dependence on movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate so that lowering the lowerable vehicle tailgate causes the actuating rod to move the first means.

9. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second means comprises a lever, and wherein the first means is coupled to the lever, wherein the lever is mounted to the vehicle panel positioning apparatus to rotate about a fulcrum.

10. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the lever is curved along at least a portion of its length, defining an open pocket for accommodating the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate when the lowerable vehicle tailgate is lowered.

11. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in claim 9 or 10, comprising hinge means for hinged connection to the lowerable vehicle tailgate, wherein the actuating rod is connected to or is connectable to the hinge means.

12. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the actuating rod is connected to or is connectable to the hinge means by a first pivot.

13. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the actuating rod is connected to or is connectable to the lever by a second pivot.

14. A vehicle panel positioning system comprising the vehicle panel positioning apparatus of any preceding claim and a vehicle panel supported by the first means.

15. A vehicle panel positioning system as claimed in claim 14, wherein the second means is for moving the vehicle panel at least inwardly

16. A vehicle split tailgate system comprising the vehicle panel positioning apparatus of any of claims 1 to 13 or the vehicle panel positioning system of claim 14 or 15, and a lowerable vehicle tailgate.

17. A vehicle comprising the vehicle panel positioning apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13, or the vehicle panel positioning system of claim 14 or 15, or the vehicle split tailgate system of claim 16.

18. A vehicle as claimed in claim 17 wherein the vehicle panel at the first position is separated from the lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate by a panel gap of less than 10mm, or less than 5mm, or less than 3mm,

19. A vehicle panel configured to be supported by first means of a vehicle panel positioning apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13.

20. A vehicle split tailgate system comprising: a lowerable vehicle tailgate; first means for supporting a vehicle panel at a first position adjacent a lower edge of the lowerable vehicle tailgate; and second means arranged to move in dependence on movement of the lowerable vehicle tailgate so that lowering the lowerable vehicle tailgate causes the second means to move the first means.

21. A vehicle panel positioning apparatus, vehicle panel positioning system, vehicle split tailgate system or vehicle as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 2A to 4D and/or as illustrated in Figures 2A to 4D.