Collapsible Vehicle Door with Segmented Frame for Compact Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle door solutions require permanent modifications to the vehicle and do not allow for easy storage or installation of collapsible doors, particularly in inclement weather conditions.

Innovation Solution

A collapsible vehicle door system comprising a frame made of multiple interconnecting pieces, a hinge portion with a securing pin, and a cover piece, which can be easily installed and uninstalled without modifying the vehicle, allowing for compact storage and secure closure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a collapsible vehicle door is designed to be easily stored within a vehicle when not installed, then the storage convenience is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple frame pieces and connection mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage convenienceVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The door frame is divided into multiple separable frame pieces that can be disconnected and stored individually within the vehicle, enabling compact storage while maintaining structural integrity when assembled

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The collapsible frame pieces are designed to nest within each other or within the vehicle interior when not in use, maximizing storage efficiency and minimizing space requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of manufacture

If the door is designed to be installed and uninstalled without modification to the vehicle, then the ease of installation is improved, but the reliability of the connection may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame pieces incorporate universal connection mechanisms with latch members that can be repeatedly assembled and disassembled without requiring vehicle modifications, maintaining reliable connections through standardized interfaces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system uses movable latch members that can be engaged and disengaged dynamically, allowing easy installation and removal while maintaining secure connections during use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If the frame is formed by connecting multiple frame pieces with latch members, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the strength of the connection may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The latch members utilize curved or rounded engagement surfaces that distribute mechanical loads more evenly across the connection points, enhancing connection strength while maintaining ease of assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame pieces are pre-configured with alignment features and pre-positioned latch members that guide proper assembly, ensuring strong connections without requiring complex assembly procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10106019B2Collapsible vehicle door and method of use
Publication Date: 2018.10.23 BEACHCOMBER OFFROAD LLC
  • US10106019B2 patent drawing
  • US10106019B2 patent drawing
  • US10106019B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A collapsible vehicle door is provided that can be easily installed and uninstalled on a vehicle, without modification to the vehicle. The uninstalled door can be collapsed into a compact configuration allowing for storage within the vehicle. The collapsible door includes frame pieces that can be fixed together to form a frame. The frame pieces may be shaped to match or partially match the contour of the door frame of the vehicle on which the collapsible door is to be installed. A cover piece is attached to the frame to provide protection from exterior weather conditions and prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle cabin. A hinge portion of the collapsible door is configured to connect to the hinge portion on the stock vehicle body. A latch portion of the collapsible door may be used to secure the collapsible door in the closed portion.