Deployable Console Box Side Table for In-Car Working Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional console boxes in automobiles do not provide sufficient space for performing simple tasks such as eating, drinking, or operating a computer while seated, and they lack a flat surface for these activities.
Innovation Solution
A console box design featuring a side table that is vertically movable and rotatable, with a shaft support and rotation stopper, allowing it to transition from a storage position to a usage position where a working surface is exposed for tasks, and expandable by a center table and armrest to increase usable area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a conventional console box is used for storage, then storage function is provided, but sufficient working area for simple tasks is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The side table is designed to be movable between a stored position (within the console box) and a deployed position (extended outward), transforming the console box from a static storage unit to a dynamic workspace. The table can be pulled out and locked at various positions, providing adjustable working area while maintaining compact storage when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The side table extends in the widthwise direction perpendicular to the front-rear axis of the vehicle, utilizing the lateral dimension to create working surface area without increasing the front-rear length of the console box. This dimensional approach maximizes space utilization within the vehicle's constrained interior.
2Area of stationary object
If a side table is added to provide working surface, then area for simple tasks is increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The side table structure serves multiple functions: it provides a working surface for tasks, acts as a structural support element, and can be integrated with storage compartments. The table's framework can accommodate both the working surface and underlying storage spaces, reducing overall system complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The console box is divided into functional zones: storage compartments for items and a deployable side table area for tasks. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized independently - storage areas remain compact while the side table area expands only when needed, managing complexity through functional separation.
3Area of moving object
If the side table is made extendable, then working area is increased, but stability and control become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A locking mechanism provides positional feedback and stability control for the side table. The lock engages at predetermined positions to prevent unintended movement, while allowing controlled adjustment when needed. This feedback system maintains stability during use while preserving the extendability feature.
Solution Approach 2:
The side table's positional parameter is made variable, allowing it to be locked at different extension positions. This parameter change capability enables the table to adapt to different working area requirements while maintaining stability at each locked position through the engagement mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A console box includes a box body, storage, a side table, a shaft, a shaft support arranged above the storage, and a rotation stopper. The storage is located in a side portion of the box body with respect to a widthwise direction of a vehicle seat. The side table is vertically movable between a storage position and an intermediate position. The shaft is located at a lower end of the side table when in the upright state. The shaft support rotatably supports the shaft so that the side table rotates about the shaft away from the box body in the widthwise direction from the intermediate position to a usage position. The rotation stopper restricts rotation of the side table beyond the usage position.