Adaptive Active-Material Cup Holder for Secure Object Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional object holders in vehicles are unable to securely accommodate and easily access various shapes and sizes of objects, such as cups, bottles, and other items, especially under the range of accelerations experienced during driving, leading to potential spills or dislodgment.
Innovation Solution
The integration of active materials, such as shape memory alloys and polymers, into object holders that deform to conform to and securely grasp objects, allowing for a single holder to adapt to multiple sizes and shapes, and remain secured without relying on gravity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single holder geometry is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to accommodate various shapes and sizes of objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The holder incorporates shape memory material that can dynamically change its geometry between a first configuration (recess formed) and a second configuration (flat surface) in response to environmental conditions or activation, enabling a single holder to adapt to various object shapes and sizes without requiring multiple fixed geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The holder utilizes changes in environmental parameters (temperature, moisture, pH) or activation signals to trigger phase transitions or property changes in the shape memory material, causing the holder to transform between different geometric states to accommodate different objects
2Ease of manufacture
If a single holder geometry is used, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the ability to secure objects under various accelerations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory holder can dynamically adjust its geometry to optimize object securing under different acceleration conditions, transforming to a first configuration that provides enhanced retention during vehicle deceleration or turning, while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a single material component
3Shape
If the holder surface is made flat and clean, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the ability to conform to and secure objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The holder maintains a flat, aesthetically pleasing surface configuration when not in use, but can dynamically transform to conform to the shape of placed objects through shape memory material activation, providing both visual appeal and functional adaptability from the same surface
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
The use of active materials enables a multifunctional object holder that securely retains objects of different sizes and shapes, preventing spills and dislodgment during vehicle movements, while also providing easy access and a clean, aesthetically enhanced surface.
Implementation Method 1
The cover comprises an active material. The active material is configured to deform into the recess when contacted with an object
Implementation Method 2
a holder can comprise: a recess, a cover disposed over the recess, and a switch configured to cause the active material to retain a deformed shape in the recess
Implementation Method 3
a switch configured to cause the active material to retain a deformed shape in the recess
Implementation Method 4
a smart attachment base comprising an active material and configured to releasably secure holder to a surface
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a device comprises an active material. Activation of the active material causes deformation within the device to conform to and/or retain an object without engaging the object below a surface of the object. In another embodiment, contact with an object causes deformation within the device to conform to and/or retain the object. In yet another embodiment, an object holder can comprise: a recess, a cover disposed over the recess, and a switch configured to cause the active material to retain a deformed shape in the recess. The cover comprises an active material. The active material is configured to deform into the recess when contacted with an object.