Integrated Console Latch Close-Out via Hinged Molding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle console latching storage bins require a separate molded latch opening close-out, increasing material and labor costs, as well as aesthetic issues due to witness lines from manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
An integrated console latch opening close-out is fabricated using injection and/or compression molding, incorporating a hinged portion with a retainer that engages a co-operating receiver to define the latch opening close-out, eliminating the need for a separate piece and hiding witness lines from view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a separate molded latch opening close-out is used, then the latch opening is occluded for aesthetic reasons and to prevent lost objects, but additional materials, tooling costs, manufacturing floor space, and labor costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the close-out member with the main bin structure by integrating it as a single molded piece. The close-out member includes a first portion that occludes the latch opening and a second portion that forms part of the bin structure, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining the aesthetic and functional benefits of the close-out.
2Ease of manufacture
If a separate molded latch opening close-out is inserted, then the latch opening is covered, but witness lines from the manufacturing process remain visible
Solution Approach 1:
By molding the close-out member and main bin structure as a single integrated piece, the patent eliminates the witness lines that would otherwise appear at the junction between separate components. The living hinge connection is positioned such that it does not create visible surface defects, thereby improving the overall aesthetic quality and surface finish of the finished product.
3Productivity
If the close-out member is integrated with the bin structure, then manufacturing costs and labor are reduced, but the close-out must still be movable to allow latch operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a living hinge in the close-out member that allows the first portion to pivot relative to the second portion. This dynamic feature enables the close-out to move between a closed position (occluding the latch opening) and an open position (allowing latch operation), while the entire assembly remains an integrated molded structure that is cost-effective to manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage bin shell for a vehicle includes a main bin portion defining a storage bin having a latch opening and an integrated latch opening close-out member configured to provide a latch opening close-out. The integrated latch opening close-out member includes a hinged portion, which may be a living hinge. The hinged portion further includes a retainer for engaging a co-operating receiver defined in the main bin portion, whereby rotating or folding the hinged portion allows engaging the co-operating receiver by the retainer to define the latch opening close-out.