Dual-Opening Armrest Assembly Single Cross Bar Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle armrest assemblies with spring-assisted opening lids require additional cross bars for latching, which occupy space and limit other functional options.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle armrest assembly with a single cross bar that is pivotably attached to both the lid and the bin, allowing the lid to be latched only to these components, eliminating the need for an additional cross bar forward of the lid and enabling the use of the space for features like inductive charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional cross bars are added for latching the lid, then the latching reliability is improved, but the device complexity and space utilization worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the latching function with a single cross bar by providing multiple latching mechanisms at different locations on the same cross bar. The first latching mechanism latches the lid to the bin, while the second latching mechanism latches the lid to the cross bar itself, merging multiple latching functions into one structural element.
Solution Approach 2:
The single cross bar serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural support element, provides attachment points for multiple latching mechanisms, and enables bidirectional lid opening. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cross bars while maintaining latching reliability.
2Reliability
If additional cross bars are added for latching the lid, then the latching reliability is improved, but the available space for other features worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple latching functions into a single cross bar structure, eliminating the need for additional cross bars. This consolidation frees up space in the armrest assembly for other features such as inductive charging surfaces, USB ports, or storage compartments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the unnecessary additional cross bars from the design while retaining the essential latching functionality through the single cross bar with multiple latching mechanisms, thereby removing obstructive elements and creating available space for other features.
3Device complexity
If a single cross bar is used with multiple latching mechanisms, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides dynamic operation by allowing the lid to be pivoted in two different directions to two different open positions, with biasing mechanisms enabling automatic opening in either direction. This dynamic capability simplifies operation despite the presence of multiple latching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing mechanisms automatically assist the lid opening operation, providing self-service functionality that reduces the effort required by the user. The biasing mechanisms store and release energy to facilitate easy opening in either direction without requiring manual intervention to overcome multiple latches.
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 design provides unobstructed space for additional features such as inductive charging and USB ports within the armrest assembly, enhancing functionality without the need for extra cross bars.
Implementation Method 1
A first biasing mechanism biases the lid to the first open position. A second biasing mechanism biases the lid to the second open position.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for a vehicle includes a bin defining a compartment with an access opening. A lid at least partially covers the access opening when in a closed position. A single cross bar is adjacent the lid. The cross bar is pivotably attached to the bin near a first end of the cross bar and is pivotably attached to the lid near a second end of the cross bar. Latching mechanisms releasably latch the lid to the bin and the single cross bar. The lid is releasably latched only to the bin and the single cross bar. The lid is pivotable in a first direction to a first open position, and is alternately pivotable in a second direction to a second open position. A first biasing mechanism biases the lid to the first open position. A second biasing mechanism biases the lid to the second open position.