Deployable Vehicle Cargo Surface for Easier Item Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing inner portions of vehicle storage areas, such as trunks and frunks, is difficult for older people, those with short stature, and individuals with disabilities, as existing trunk organizers do not adequately facilitate easy retrieval of stored items.
Innovation Solution
A deployable support surface with a support member and adjustment mechanism, powered by a power assist mechanism, that raises and extends to the edge of the storage area opening, allowing easier access and use as a work surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a deployable support surface is added to a vehicle storage area, then accessibility for users is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface is designed to be deployable rather than fixed, transitioning between a stowed position (flush with the storage area floor) and a deployed position (raised to facilitate access). This dynamic configuration allows the system to provide accessibility benefits only when needed, while maintaining a simple appearance and minimal complexity during normal storage conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support surface mechanism is nested within the existing storage area structure. The support surface can be positioned flush with the storage area floor when not in use, effectively hiding it within the existing structure. This nesting approach integrates the accessibility feature without adding external complexity or permanently altering the storage area's appearance.
2Ease of operation
If a power assist mechanism is used to raise the support surface, then ease of operation is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power assist mechanism is designed to automatically raise and lower the support surface without requiring user intervention. The system can detect when the support surface needs to be deployed and activates the motor accordingly, then automatically returns to its stowed position after use. This self-service approach eliminates the need for users to manually operate complex mechanical systems while minimizing overall energy consumption by operating only when necessary.
3Ease of operation
If the support surface is extended to the edge of the opening, then accessibility is improved, but stability of the support surface may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface is divided into multiple sections or panels that can be independently supported by separate mechanical elements. This segmentation allows each section to be stabilized independently, preventing the entire surface from becoming unstable when extended to the opening edge. The segmented design also enables the support surface to adapt to different extension positions while maintaining structural integrity.
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
Enables users to easily retrieve items from vehicle storage areas by providing a deployable and level support surface, enhancing accessibility for diverse user groups.
Implementation Method 1
the power assist mechanism includes one of a spring, a hydraulic cylinder, and a motor
Implementation Method 2
the power assist mechanism includes one of a spring, a hydraulic cylinder, and a motor
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable support surface for a vehicle storage area having an opening defined by an edge includes a support member including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface and an adjustment mechanism coupled to the support member. The adjustment mechanism selectively raises the first surface to the edge of the opening.