Vehicle Console Tray Retainer Dynamics for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle storage consoles face challenges in providing reconfigurable storage options that are both easily movable and securely fixed, while minimizing noise and ensuring user satisfaction.
Innovation Solution
A console design featuring a compartment with channels and retainer structures that allow a tray member to be positioned and engaged, using engagement structures to restrain movement along multiple axes, providing secure storage and noise reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tray member is made easily repositionable by the user, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of securement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer structure is designed to be dynamically changeable between a first configuration that allows easy insertion and removal of the tray member, and a second configuration that securely retains the tray member in position. The retainer includes a biasing mechanism that automatically transitions between these states based on tray insertion forces.
2Reliability
If the tray member is securely fixed in place, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer structure automatically transitions between a first configuration that allows easy tray removal and a second configuration that secures the tray firmly. The biasing mechanism ensures that normal use forces trigger the appropriate configuration change without requiring user effort.
3Reliability
If the retainer structure provides firm securement, then the reliability is improved, but the noise generation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer structure includes a biasing mechanism that maintains continuous contact force between the tray member and the console body, preventing gaps that would cause squeak and rattle noises during vehicle operation.
4Ease of operation
If the tray member is easily removable, then the ease of operation is improved, but the noise generation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer structure dynamically adjusts its retention force based on operational needs. During normal vehicle operation, the biasing mechanism maintains firm contact to eliminate noise. During tray removal operations, the mechanism temporarily transitions to allow easy extraction, then automatically returns to the noise-preventing configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a console for use in a vehicle. One embodiment comprises a compartment defined by a first wall and a second wall that are spaced apart from one another in a first direction, a first channel disposed adjacent to the first wall, the first channel defining an opening oriented in an upward direction and including first and second end surfaces spaced apart along the first channel, a retainer structure disposed within the first channel and spaced from the first and second end surfaces and a tray member having an engagement structure configured to be received within the first channel. The tray member is positionable within the compartment such that the engagement structure is received within the first channel and engages the retainer structure to restrain movement of the tray member along the first channel toward both of the first end surface and the second end surface.