Cushioned Cup Holder Panel With Hidden Foam Arm Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cup holder assemblies in automotive vehicles have rigid surfaces that can cause discomfort to users, despite their aesthetic appeal, as they lack cushioning for arm support.
Innovation Solution
A cup holder assembly with a panel featuring a cushioned top surface, where a pocket with closed pore foam is integrated into the panel, providing a smooth and uniform exterior appearance while offering cushioned support through injection molding or foam pads, and a separate cup holder attached to the underside of the panel for beverage containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a rigid planar surface is used for the cup holder assembly, then the aesthetic appearance is smooth and uniform, but user comfort deteriorates due to lack of cushioning for arm support
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by integrating pockets with cushions only in specific locations where users rest their arms, while maintaining the rigid planar surface in other areas for aesthetic purposes. This selective application of cushioning material in pockets at strategic positions provides comfort exactly where needed without compromising the overall smooth exterior appearance of the cup holder assembly.
2Ease of operation
If a cushioned surface is added to the cup holder assembly, then user comfort is improved, but the exterior appearance may become non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing cushions inside recessed pockets that are formed within the rigid panel structure. The cushions are nested within these pockets, allowing them to provide comfort while remaining hidden from external view. The pockets are strategically positioned so that the cushioned areas are not visible from the outside, thus maintaining the uniform rigid exterior appearance while providing cushioning support where users contact the surface.
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
The assembly provides enhanced user comfort by cushioning areas where the arm rests, such as the elbow and wrist, while maintaining a rigid surface for weight support, ensuring a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing design.
Implementation Method 1
The cushion may be formed from a closed pore foam and placed within the pocket through an injection molding process
Data Source
AI summary
A cup holder assembly for use in an automotive vehicle is provided. The cup holder assembly includes a panel and cup holder. The panel includes a top surface. The top surface includes at least one beverage container opening configured to receive a cup holder. A pocket is formed on the top surface of the panel and a cushion is disposed within the pocket. The panel may be covered with a skin such as a synthetic leather so as to cover the panel.