Vehicle Center Console Cradle for Electronic Device Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of electronic devices stored in vehicle center consoles face difficulties in accessing and using these devices due to their concealed location, requiring them to search through other contents and find a stable position for operation, which can lead to inconvenience and safety issues.
Innovation Solution
A center console with a hinged armrest providing access to a storage bin and a compartment for electronic devices, featuring a hinged cover with a cradle for secure holding and positioning, allowing the device to be easily accessed and connected to the vehicle's radio, with the armrest sliding for visibility and power outlet accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic devices are stored in the center console for security, then device security is improved, but device accessibility and usability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The center console is segmented into multiple compartments: a main storage bin for general items and a dedicated electronic device compartment with cradle. This segmentation allows secure storage of devices in the main console while providing a specialized accessible area with proper positioning and connectivity, resolving the contradiction between security and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
A dedicated electronic device compartment with cradle acts as an intermediary between the secure main storage and the user's hand. The cradle provides stable positioning, cable access, and radio connectivity, serving as a mediator that maintains security while enabling easy access and usability.
2Device complexity
If the armrest is fixed in position, then structural simplicity is improved, but device visibility and accessibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest is made dynamic through a sliding mechanism that allows it to move forward and backward along the console. This enables the armrest-mounted electronic device compartment to be positioned optimally for visibility and access, while returning to a retracted position when not in use, balancing structural simplicity with operational flexibility.
3Reliability
If the electronic device compartment is concealed, then security is improved, but device accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device compartment is pre-positioned in the armrest with the cradle ready to receive devices. Cables are pre-routed through the armrest structure, and the compartment is pre-configured with proper positioning features. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need to search through other console contents, reducing access time while maintaining security through the closed compartment design.
Data Source
AI summary
A center console has an armrest that is hinged to provide access to a storage bin, and in addition has a compartment for an electronic device such a cellular phone, MP3 player or a handheld GPS navigation unit. The compartment preferably has a pivoted cover that closes to conceal the device from sight. A cradle attached to the cover holds the device when the cover is open so that it is in a convenient position for use by a vehicle occupant. The armrest may be slid forward relative to the center console to position the device close to the radio, in the field of vision of the driver, and permitting connection of the device to the radio or to an external outlet if desired. A finger recess may be provided in the armrest to permit cables to pass from the interior of the compartment to the exterior of the compartment.