C-Shaped Cantilevered Palm Rest Bracket for Vehicle Console Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle console assemblies with integrated palm rests restrict access to the space below the palm rest, as they are typically fixed and do not allow for easy access to storage compartments.
Innovation Solution
A floating type palm rest assembly is designed with a C-shaped palm rest bracket that includes a base wall, side wall, and upper wall, where the upper wall is cantilevered and only connected on one side, allowing increased access to the storage space below while maintaining sufficient rigidity through a one-piece monolithic structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the palm rest is integrated with the console or armrest, then the palm rest provides structural support, but the space below the palm rest becomes difficult to access
Solution Approach 1:
The palm rest assembly is divided into separate components: a palm rest bracket that attaches to the console and a palm rest pad that sits on top. This segmentation allows the storage space to be accessed from the front, rear, and sides while the bracket provides the necessary structural support through its C-shaped configuration with base wall, side wall, and upper wall.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a three-dimensional floating structure by extending the side wall between the base wall and upper wall, forming a C-shaped bracket that cantilevers the upper wall. This dimensional arrangement allows access to the storage compartment from multiple directions (front, rear, and lateral sides) while maintaining structural integrity through the spatial configuration of the bracket walls.
2Ease of operation
If the palm rest is made floating type for increased access, then access to space below is improved, but rigidity of the palm rest assembly may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is segmented into functional walls (base wall for mounting, side wall for structural support, upper wall for palm rest support) that work together to provide rigidity. The side wall extends between the base and upper walls to form a C-shape, creating a structurally sound framework that supports the floating palm rest while enabling multi-directional access to storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The palm rest assembly combines the bracket structure with a separate palm rest pad, creating a composite system where the rigid bracket provides structural stability and the pad provides the floating effect. This composite construction maintains rigidity while enabling the floating configuration for improved access.
Data Source
AI summary
A palm rest assembly includes a palm rest bracket and a palm rest pad. The palm rest assembly is for a console assembly of a vehicle. The center console assembly includes a console frame. The palm rest bracket includes a generally C-shape. The palm rest bracket includes a base wall, a side wall, and an upper wall. The base wall is mounted to the console frame. The side wall extends between the base wall and the upper wall such that the upper wall is cantilevered. The palm rest pad is coupled to the upper wall.