Vehicle Console Unitary Body Cross Bracket Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle console assemblies lack structural integrity and require multiple components, increasing manufacturing complexity and costs, while also being aesthetically unappealing due to visible structural elements.
Innovation Solution
A console assembly featuring a unitary main body with a cross bracket that provides structural integrity, integrating a main storage cavity, media storage cavity, and top finish portion, with the cross bracket suspended between side walls to eliminate the need for a traditional floor-mounted base and conceal structural elements from view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a traditional floor-mounted base structure is used to provide structural integrity, then the console has sufficient structural strength, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cross bracket is integrated directly into the unitary main body structure, eliminating the need for a separate floor-mounted base. The cross bracket forms an integral part of the console assembly, reducing the total number of components while maintaining structural integrity through the unified design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trim pieces are coupled to form the main body, then the console can be assembled from modular components, but the device complexity increases and assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The main body is formed as a unitary structure where the cross bracket and side walls are integrally formed as a single piece. This eliminates the need to couple multiple trim pieces together, significantly reducing assembly complexity while maintaining the structural benefits of a multi-component design.
3Strength
If structural elements are visible on the console exterior, then the structural components can be clearly seen, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cross bracket is integrated into the unitary main body structure, allowing it to be positioned and concealed within the console's interior space. The structural support function is maintained while the aesthetic appearance is preserved by eliminating visible structural elements from the exterior.
Data Source
AI summary
A console assembly for a vehicle includes a unitary main body. The unitary main body includes a first side wall, a second side wall, and a top finish portion that extends between the first and second side walls. The top finish portion defines at least one of a shifter receiving aperture and a cup holder opening. A cross bracket is coupled to the first and second side walls and extends between the first and second side walls of the unitary main body.