Vehicle Console Pivot Panel for Flexible Concealed Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle console assemblies lack flexibility in storage configuration, making it difficult to accommodate items of varying sizes and shapes, and often require inconvenient access methods.
Innovation Solution
A console assembly with a pivotable panel that transitions between two positions, allowing the compartment and receptacle to be defined and reconfigured, along with a movable tray and shelves, to provide versatile storage and access options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed console structure is used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the storage flexibility is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is made movable through a pivot mechanism, transitioning from a fixed structure to a dynamic one. The panel can rotate between a first position (defining compartment boundaries) and a second position (covering the receptacle), enabling the console to adapt its configuration based on storage needs while maintaining operational simplicity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the panel is made movable to reconfigure storage, then the storage flexibility improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The console is divided into distinct functional zones: a compartment defined by the compartment side wall and floor, a receptacle with its own floor and side wall, and a movable panel that acts as a shared boundary. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for specific storage purposes while the panel provides flexible separation between them
Solution Approach 2:
The panel serves multiple functions: it defines the compartment boundary when in the first position, covers the receptacle when in the second position, and provides structural support for both shelves. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, managing complexity while maximizing versatility
3Shape
If items are stored in a concealed manner, then the aesthetic appearance improves, but the access convenience may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The panel's mobility enables it to switch between concealing the receptacle (aesthetic mode) and providing access (functional mode). When the panel rotates to the second position, it covers the receptacle for a streamlined appearance; when needed, it can be moved to allow access, balancing aesthetics with convenience
Data Source
AI summary
A console assembly for a vehicle includes a compartment side wall. The compartment side wall extends from a compartment floor to an upper rim of the compartment side wall. The console assembly includes a receptacle side wall that extends upward from a receptacle floor of the console assembly to define a receptacle. The console assembly further includes a panel that has opposite first and second sides. The panel is pivotable between a first position and a second position. In the first position of the panel, the panel, the compartment side wall, and the compartment floor define a compartment of the console assembly, and the first side of the panel faces the compartment. In the second position, the panel covers the receptacle of the console assembly and a surface of the first side of the panel is substantially planar with a surface of the compartment floor.