Armrest Lid Latch Mechanism With Spring-Biased Handle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing armrest storage compartment lids in vehicles lack a reliable and user-friendly latch mechanism that securely retains the lid in the closed position during armrest movement between stowed and use positions without compromising accessibility.
Innovation Solution
An improved armrest assembly featuring a handle cradle with guide channels and inner guide, a spring-biased handle with clips and slots, and a latch mechanism that securely retains the lid in the closed position, allowing easy transition to the open position by the occupant.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to retain the lid in the closed position, then the lid security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a handle with guide channels for user input, a separate latch member with engagement features, and a spring element for biasing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the overall design and manufacturing of the retention system.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the spring element that automatically engages the latch member when the lid is closed, and self-releasing when the handle is actuated. The spring provides automatic resetting without requiring manual intervention to return the latch to its engaged state, reducing the complexity of control systems.
2Ease of operation
If a spring-biased handle mechanism is used to retain the lid, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle mechanism incorporates a spring element that provides dynamic biasing force, allowing the latch to automatically engage when the lid is closed and to be easily released when force is applied to the handle. The spring enables the mechanism to adapt to different closing forces and provides a consistent return force, improving operational ease while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle acts as an intermediary element between the user's manual input and the latch engagement/disengagement. The guide channels in the handle provide a controlled path for the latch member, mediating the force application and ensuring smooth operation. This intermediary mechanism translates simple user input into reliable latch control without requiring complex actuation systems.
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 solution provides a secure and user-friendly mechanism for retaining the lid in the closed position during armrest movement, ensuring objects remain secure while allowing easy access to the storage compartment without the risk of accidental opening.
Implementation Method 1
The armrest assembly also includes a spring that biases the handle into the latch position.
Data Source
AI summary
An armrest assembly includes an armrest and a lid mounted on the armrest for relative rotational movement between a closed and open positions. The lid includes a handle cradle with handle guides on opposed sides and an intermediate inner guide. A handle is located in the handle cradle for relative movement between a latch position and a release position. The handle includes a latch. The latch retains the lid in the closed position when the handle is in the latch position. The handle includes a clip that engages a slot on the lid to retain the handle in the handle cradle. The handle also includes guide channels on opposed sides. The guide channels engage the handle guides. The handle includes an intermediate inner guide space. The inner guide space engages the inner guide. The armrest assembly also includes a spring that biases the handle into the latch position.