Vehicle Center Console With Sliding Functional Unit for Storage Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing center consoles in vehicles do not optimally utilize structural space and storage capacity, particularly in the area between front seats, limiting the functionality and efficiency of integrated functional units.
Innovation Solution
A center console design featuring a rearwardly situated armrest with a linearly movable functional unit that can transition between a rearward rest position and a forward functional position, incorporating features like storage troughs, roller shutters, pivotable armrests, and display-holding units to optimize space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the functional unit is permanently positioned in the forward functional position for easy accessibility, then the ease of operation is improved, but the storage capacity and structural space utilization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The functional unit is designed to be movable between different positions (forward functional position and rearward rest position) rather than fixed. This allows the system to dynamically adapt between providing easy accessibility when needed and maximizing storage capacity when the functional unit is retracted, directly resolving the contradiction between operational ease and storage volume
2Volume of stationary object
If the functional unit is permanently positioned in the rearward rest position to maximize storage space, then the volume of stationary object is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The functional unit can be moved from the rearward rest position to the forward functional position when needed, providing easy accessibility. When not in use, it returns to the rearward position to maximize storage space, thus resolving the contradiction between storage capacity and operational accessibility
3Ease of manufacture
If the center console structure is simplified to reduce device complexity, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the adaptability and functionality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The center console is divided into distinct modular components: the functional unit (containing beverage holders, charging units, stowage compartments) and the storage trough. This segmentation allows each module to be manufactured independently with simpler structures while maintaining overall functional versatility through their combination and relative movement
Solution Approach 2:
The movable functional unit introduces adaptability without significantly complicating the overall structure. The functional unit can be linearly moved along the storage trough, providing versatility in positioning and functionality while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical guide structure that does not overly complicate manufacturing
Data Source
AI summary
A center console for a vehicle, having at least one rearwardly situated armrest and having at least one functional unit. In order to enable an existing structural space to be utilized optimally, and at the same time optimize the center console with regard to its storage space, the functional unit is mounted to be linearly movable between a rearward rest position, in which the functional unit is arranged at least predominantly under the armrest, and at least one forward functional position, in which the functional unit is at least predominantly forwardly offset in relation to the armrest.