Cup Holder Bracket With Pivotable Electronic Device Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cup holder assemblies lack integration of electronic components, such as antennas, which are not conveniently maintained or positioned within the assembly, limiting their functionality and usability.
Innovation Solution
A cup holder assembly with a pivotably coupled bracket using a living hinge, allowing an electronic device to pivot between assembled and unassembled positions, and featuring a retention mechanism to secure the bracket in place, enabling the integration of electronic devices like antennas and key fobs within the assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electronic components are integrated into the cup holder assembly, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is integrally coupled with the base as a single piece, merging two components into one. This reduces the number of separate parts while still providing both the structural base and the pivoting bracket functionality, thereby integrating electronic components without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables pivoting motion for electronic devices, and includes retention features for securing components. This multi-functionality allows electronic integration without requiring separate dedicated components for each function
2Ease of operation
If a pivotable bracket is added to the cup holder assembly, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed to pivot between different positions, transitioning from a static structure to a dynamic one. This allows the electronic device to be positioned at different angles or removed entirely, improving ease of operation while the integral coupling keeps the complexity increase minimal
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is divided into functional zones: the pivoting section for motion, the retention feature section for securing devices, and the coupling section for attachment to the base. This segmentation allows each part to perform its function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity
3Reliability
If a retention feature is included to secure the bracket, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention feature is integrated into the bracket as part of its structure rather than being a separate component. This merging of the retention function into the existing bracket design provides reliable securing capability without adding separate parts or significantly increasing complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enhances the functionality of cup holder assemblies by allowing electronic devices to be securely positioned and easily assembled/disassembled, improving user convenience and reducing component count, thus lowering costs.
Implementation Method 1
A cup holder assembly with a pivotably coupled bracket using a living hinge
Data Source
AI summary
A cup holder assembly includes a base. A side wall is coupled to the base and extends cup holder assembly-upward from the base to generally define a cavity for receiving a cup. A bracket is pivotably coupled to the base and is operable to pivot between a first position and a second position. A retention feature is coupled to the bracket and is configured to engage with the base if the bracket is in the second position to retain the bracket in the second position. An electronic device is operable between an unassembled position and an assembled position in which the electronic device is engaged with the bracket, wherein the electronic device is configured to move with the bracket as the bracket pivots between the first and second positions if the electronic device is in the assembled position.