Multi-Axis Closure Pivot Support for Confined Vehicle Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle closure systems face challenges in efficiently opening and closing within confined spaces while avoiding contact with other vehicle components, particularly when multiple axes of rotation are required.
Innovation Solution
A support system with a gimbal mount allowing components to rotate about two perpendicular axes, incorporating a shaft, springs, and a bracket for multi-axis pivoting, which includes a first biasing component for opening and a second for closing, enabling smooth operation and compact fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional single-axis hinge system is used, then the structure is simple, but the closure cannot avoid contact with other vehicle components in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a fixed single-axis hinge to a dynamic multi-axis pivoting system. The closure assembly can now rotate about a first axis perpendicular to the closure and a second axis parallel to the closure, allowing adaptive movement through three-dimensional space. This dynamic capability enables the closure to navigate around obstacles and fit into confined vehicle spaces while maintaining structural integrity through controlled multi-directional rotation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the closure system is designed to rotate about multiple axes, then it can avoid contact with other objects, but the space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the nesting principle by integrating the multi-axis pivoting mechanism within the compact closure assembly itself. The first and second axes of rotation are incorporated into the closure structure, allowing the assembly to fold and pivot in a nested manner. This enables the closure to occupy minimal space when closed while providing full multi-axis rotation capability when needed, effectively nesting the rotational freedom within the closure's own volume rather than requiring external space.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact closure system is used, then it fits in small spaces, but it may get stuck when contacting other vehicle components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dimensionality change principle by adding rotational freedom in multiple dimensions. Instead of being constrained to a single plane of motion, the closure assembly can rotate about a first axis perpendicular to the closure and a second axis parallel to the closure. This multi-dimensional movement capability allows the compact closure to navigate around obstacles in three-dimensional space, effectively using additional rotational dimensions to avoid contact with vehicle components and prevent getting stuck.
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 system provides a compact assembly that can fit into small spaces and rotate around various vehicle components, reducing wear and likelihood of getting stuck, while assisting in opening and closing the closure smoothly.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus may further include multiple springs, at least one of which supports the hinge when opening the closure and at least one of which supports the hinge when closing the closure
Implementation Method 2
The shaft may be a dampener configured to counter the force in the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus allows movement of a closure for a vehicle in multiple directions, while also rotating about two different axes to avoid contact with another object of the vehicle. The apparatus may include multiple springs to counter the weight of the closure while opening the closure, as well as to provide lift assistance while closing the closure. The apparatus may further include a mount and a bracket that allow other components (e.g., shaft, springs) to rotate about two different axes.