Adjustable Cup Holder Base Depth Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle console cup holders are often fixed, limiting adaptability to accommodate different-sized beverage containers and occupant needs due to restricted storage space.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable cup holder assembly with a user-controlled mechanism that adjusts the depth of the cup holder base, utilizing a spring and user interface to accommodate various container sizes, allowing for customizable depth adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed cup holder design is used, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the adaptability to accommodate different-sized beverage containers is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cup holder base is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to adjust its position vertically to accommodate different container sizes. The spring mechanism enables the base to move dynamically in response to user input and container weight, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The depth of the cup holder base is changed as a variable parameter through user input via the user interface. This allows the same physical structure to provide different storage depths depending on the container size, achieving adaptability without requiring multiple fixed structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cup holder base depth is made adjustable, then the versatility increases, but the device complexity increases due to additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides automatic cushioning and position stabilization without requiring complex control systems. The spring naturally absorbs excess force and maintains the base in its adjusted position, allowing the mechanism to serve itself rather than requiring additional actuators or sensors for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The single adjustment mechanism serves multiple functions: it adjusts the base depth, provides cushioning during adjustment, stabilizes the base in the adjusted position, and adapts to different container weights. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If storage space in the vehicle console is limited, then the console structure remains compact, but the ability to provide variety of options for occupants is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable base transforms a static, single-purpose storage space into a dynamic, multi-purpose space that can be reconfigured for different container sizes. This allows the same physical area to serve various storage needs without requiring additional space or multiple fixed compartments.
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
Enables flexible and customizable storage solutions within the vehicle console, accommodating different beverage containers and enhancing user convenience by allowing for tailored space usage.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned between a bottom edge of the cup holder base and a console bottom surface
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle cup holder assembly having a cup holder defining an interior volume and a cup holder base having a depth relative to a top surface of the cup holder. A spring may be positioned between a bottom edge of the cup holder base and a console bottom surface. The cup holder assembly may have a user interface. The cup holder assembly may also have a side member of the cup holder base positioned in a side space. The depth of the cup holder base may be adjusted by a mechanism controlled by the user interface.