Vehicle Assist Handle Assembly with Integrated Tool Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle assist handle assemblies lack a secure and customizable solution for easy assembly and disassembly, particularly in off-road vehicles, and do not provide a means to track the location of assembly tools.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle-mounted assist handle assembly with a releasable connector, storage compartment, and an assembly tool that includes a wireless communication device for location tracking, allowing secure attachment to a structural component and easy assembly/disassembly, while the tool is stored within the handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a releasable connector is used to secure the assist handle assembly, then ease of assembly and disassembly is improved, but reliability of the connection may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly tool is nested within the storage compartment of the assist handle assembly, with the holder integrated into the compartment structure. This nesting approach consolidates multiple components (tool, holder, compartment) into a compact integrated unit, maintaining connection reliability while enabling easy assembly through the releasable connector
2Ease of operation
If an assembly tool is provided with the assist handle assembly, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly tool is merged with the storage compartment and holder into a single integrated assembly unit. The tool is stored within the compartment and secured by the holder, combining three separate elements (tool, storage, holder) into one cohesive component that simplifies the overall device while providing assembly functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The assist handle assembly includes its own assembly tool stored within its structure, enabling self-service assembly and disassembly without requiring external tools. The releasable connector and integrated tool allow the assembly to be serviced by its own components
3Ease of operation
If a storage compartment with holder is provided, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is merged with the storage compartment structure, where the holder forms an integral part of the compartment assembly. This integration reduces the number of separate components while providing organized tool storage, balancing convenience with structural simplicity
Data Source
AI summary
An assist handle assembly for a vehicle is provided that includes an assist handle configured to be gripped by a user, a releasable connector configured to secure the assist handle assembly to a structural component of the vehicle, the connector comprising a fastener having a key surface, a storage compartment provided in the assist handle, and an assembly tool for engaging the key surface of the fastener during assembly and disassembly of the connector from the structural component of the vehicle, wherein the assembly tool is stored in the storage compartment.