Automobile Bay Locking Handle on Side Edge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle bay closure devices are ergonomically challenging, require complex actuation mechanisms, and have impractical locking systems, often necessitating effort and complex assembly processes, while also limiting the size of the transparent surface due to standardization constraints.
Innovation Solution
A closure device with a movable part that includes a glazed portion, a frame portion surrounding the glazed area, and an actuating handle extending from the side edge, facilitating easier operation and locking/unlocking via hooks connected to bolts, allowing for ergonomic handling and automatic return to a locked position, thus enhancing usability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the handle is positioned on the main surface of the movable panel, then it is easier to operate, but it violates safety standards limiting protrusion into the vehicle interior
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is repositioned from the main surface (two-dimensional plane) to the side edge (one-dimensional boundary), changing its spatial dimension. This allows the handle to extend laterally rather than protruding into the vehicle interior, maintaining ergonomic operability while complying with safety standards that limit inward protrusion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex actuation means are provided to enable unlocking and displacement with the same handle, then functionality is integrated, but the assembly becomes complex and requires adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the handle for user input, bolts for locking/unlocking, and separate guide rails for displacement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assembly and eliminating the need for complex integrated mechanisms while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of manufacture
If the movable panel is designed with standardization constraints, then manufacturing is simplified, but the transparent surface area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is extracted from the main surface of the movable panel and repositioned to the side edge. This extraction removes the constraint that limited the transparent surface area, allowing the panel to have a larger glazed portion while the handle remains accessible for operation. The handle becomes a separate element attached to the edge rather than an integral part of the panel surface.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~6
Figure 7~10
AI summary
The device (1) has a fixed glazed part (11) integrated to a window and supporting rails (15-1, 15-2), and a mobile part (16) sliding along the rails. The mobile part has a locking/unlocking device comprising an activating handle (110) acted on a bolt. A frame portion (17) surrounds glazed portion (20) on surface of the mobile part, and supports the locking and unlocking device. One of lateral edges (22, 23) of the frame portion connects the frame portion to the glazed portion. The handle is extended from one of the edges of the frame portion.