Console Support Panel Lead-in Rib Pivot Shaft Restraint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle console storage containers often fail to maintain covers in a closed state during collisions, leading to potential injuries from objects being ejected, and existing solutions like inertial locks may not adequately prevent premature disengagement or noise issues.
Innovation Solution
A console support panel with a cavity for a pivot shaft of an inertia block and lead-in ribs that restrain translational movement, ensuring the cover remains closed during impacts and reducing noise and vibration by stabilizing the pivot shaft and preventing unwanted disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an inertial lock is used to position the lid, then the cover can be kept closed during collisions, but the pivot shaft may experience premature disengagement and noise issues
Solution Approach 1:
The lead-in rib acts as an intermediary element between the pivot shaft and the cavity wall. It guides the pivot shaft into proper alignment and maintains continuous contact during operation, preventing the pivot shaft from disengaging from the cavity. This intermediary structure eliminates noise and vibration by ensuring the pivot shaft remains properly positioned throughout its range of motion, while still allowing the inertial lock to function effectively in keeping the cover closed during collisions.
2Ease of manufacture
If the pivot shaft is freely positioned in the cavity, then installation is simple, but the pivot shaft may disengage prematurely causing noise and safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The lead-in rib is designed to automatically guide the pivot shaft into the correct position during installation without requiring additional alignment tools or complex procedures. As the pivot shaft is inserted into the cavity, the lead-in rib self-adjusts to lead the shaft into proper alignment and restrain it from disengagement. This self-service mechanism maintains installation simplicity while ensuring reliable pivot shaft positioning throughout the product lifecycle.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention in one or more embodiments provides a console support panel which includes a first portion defining a cavity to receive therein a pivot shaft of an inertia block; and a second portion positioned next to the first portion and to support a movable cover, wherein the first portion further includes a lead-in rib extending into the cavity to restrain translational movement of the pivot shaft. In certain embodiments, the lead-in rib includes first and second lead-in ribs to restrain translational movement of first and second ends of the pivot shaft, respectively.